We may boycott DRC routes’ over driver killings, ITF Zambia warns
By Chali Mulenga, in Livingstone, Southern Province
The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) National Coordinating Committee Zambia Chapter chairperson Nathan Zulu has warned that Zambian truck drivers may stop using routes into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) if the killings of his members persists.
Mr. Zulu issued a stern warning that ITF Zambia cannot needlessly continue losing members in cold blood.
Zulu advised authorities in the DRC to guarantee safety of ITF Zambia truck drivers.
“We will have no choice but to boycott their route if murders and robberies targeting Zambian drivers in the DRC persist.
Silent diplomacy is no longer working. This is a visible problem that requires a visible solution from both governments. I urge authorities to urgently escalate engagements with the DRC to guarantee the safety of Zambian citizens,” Zulu warned as he appealed to the global ITF movement to intervene.
The Zambian Chapter represents 11 unions affiliated to the global ITF membership of more than 20 million workers in 150 countries.
Turning to the rail sector, Zulu welcomed the renewed investments recorded in 2025.
“The US$1.4 billion TAZARA recapitalisation, the €50 million European Union support and the Government’s US$100,000 for ZRL are encouraging signs. Zambia is set to become a regional transit hub under the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP),” said Zulu as he noted that Lobito and Nacala corridors open new trade routes to the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
However, Zulu regretted that Zambia Railways Limited performance remains far below acceptable performance levels.
“ZRL is operating with overaged track and equipment. Some sections are reduced to speeds of 10–15 km/h because of track degradation. Without the US$1.3 billion needed for full rehabilitation, workers will remain exposed to unsafe conditions and uncompetitive salaries,” observed Zulu.
On the road sector, he commended Government for upgrading the Great North Road.
Zulu welcomed Cabinet’s approval of the bulk fuel importation pilot.
In the aviation sector, Zulu praised the revival of the national airline and increased tourist arrivals.
Zulu commended the government on the rehabilitation of provincial airports and planned construction of airports in Nakonde, Kapiri Mposhi and Kabwe (Central Province).
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