Kenyan Diaspora in DRC on Edge as M23 Rebels Capture Goma

Kenyans living in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are increasingly anxious as violence escalates across the nation, particularly in the eastern regions where the rebel group M23 has intensified military operations.

The recent surge in unrest has raised alerts for the Kenyan community, as citizens contend with shifting security dynamics. A.S., a Kenyan quantity surveyor based in Kolwezi—located in the southern DRC near the Zambian border—describes the current atmosphere as cautiously tense. Although Kolwezi has yet to experience direct conflict, the unease among foreign residents, including Kenyans, continues to grow amidst climbing security warnings.

“We are generally safe but on high alert,” A.S. states. “Citizens are frustrated by the ongoing conflict. For now, we sleep with one eye open.”

Last week, the situation deteriorated significantly when M23 rebels captured the city of Goma in North Kivu province, subsequently assassinating its military governor. These developments have sparked fears of a major confrontation between M23 and the Congolese army (FARDC), especially given the rebels' threats to advance towards the capital, Kinshasa. In Kinshasa, demonstrations have erupted, with protesters targeting embassies of several countries, including Kenya, Uganda, South Africa, Rwanda, France, and the United States.

These protests, driven by perceptions of international inaction, have not yet led to reported xenophobic incidents against Kenyans, though A.S. acknowledges rising fears of similar protests spilling into Kolwezi. He notes, "While Kolwezi is not the epicentre of the agitation, there have been threats of demonstrations here as well. We hope they will not target foreign nationals.”

Maintaining open communication with family in Kenya, A.S. continues to prioritize his safety. The Kenyan Embassy in Kinshasa has issued a safety advisory urging Kenyans across the DRC to remain vigilant, particularly in light of anticipated protests in the capital. The advisory recommends avoiding protest locations and large gatherings, stressing the necessity to stay informed through local updates.

It also emphasizes carrying valid identification at all times due to potential security checks and encourages business individuals to maintain connections with local law enforcement to protect their activities. While precise statistics on the number of Kenyans residing in the DRC are unavailable, the embassy has confirmed an active monitoring approach regarding the situation affecting its diaspora.

Notably, many Kenyans are involved in local businesses, including motorcycle trading and services provided by Equity Bank’s Goma branch, benefiting from the facilitation of travel between the two nations following the DRC’s admission into the East African Community, which allows for visa-free access. The Kenyan community, along with other expatriates, remains vigilant, hoping for a swift resolution that will restore stability and security to the country.