Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have reached an agreement to allow the clearance of at least 500 trucks per day in an effort to alleviate congestion at the Kasumbalesa border on the Copperbelt. This decision comes in response to the over 3,000 stranded trucks on the Zambian side of the border.
Katanga Governor Jacques Katwe stated that another measure to address the issue will be to extend the working hours for customs officers from 6 hours to 20 hours at the Kasumbalesa, Mokambo, and Sakanya border posts.
During a meeting held in Chililabombwe, Governor Katwe praised the strong working relationship between Zambia and the DRC. Additionally, Commerce Minister Chipoka Mulenga noted that the two countries had a productive discussion aimed at reducing congestion on the Zambian side. He expressed gratitude for the Congolese government’s willingness to improve the border situation.
Meanwhile, Copperbelt Province Minister Elisha Matambo expressed satisfaction that truck drivers will now be able to cross into the DRC without any issues.
