Kenya Airways has suspended its flights to Kinshasa N’Djili, Democratic Republic of Congo, effective April 30, in response to the alleged illegal detention of two of its staff members by the Congolese military. The suspension comes amidst escalating tensions between Kenya and the DRC, with accusations of harassment targeting the airline’s operations.
According to Allan Kilavuka, Group Managing Director and CEO of Kenya Airways, the detention of these employees has severely impacted the airline’s ability to manage operations in Kinshasa. “This includes overseeing customer service, ground handling, and cargo activities, crucial for maintaining safe and efficient operations,” Kilavuka stated. He also emphasized the need for the humane and respectful treatment of the detained staff during their unlawful detention.
The arrests occurred on April 19 at the airline’s office in Kinshasa N’Djili Airport, with Congolese military intelligence, known as Detection Militaire des Activities Anti Patrie (DEMIAP), holding the employees incommunicado. The dispute centers around missing customs documents related to a cargo shipment scheduled for April 12, which was never accepted by the airline due to incomplete documentation.
Despite a Military Court order on April 25 for the release of the detained employees to facilitate due process, they remain in custody. “The military intelligence unit continues to hold them incommunicado in a military facility, despite them being civilians,” added Kilavuka.
Kenya Airways asserts that it adheres strictly to international cargo handling standards and requires all logistics partners to do the same. The airline is actively cooperating with both Kenyan and Congolese authorities to resolve the situation.
The incident coincides with a high-profile event in Nairobi, where Kenya, together with the World Bank, is hosting the International Development Association (IDA) Summit for African Heads of State and Government.
Historically, relations between Kenya and the DRC have been cooperative, with Kenya participating in regional peacekeeping efforts. However, recent accusations of Kenya’s alleged support for Congolese opposition and rebel groups have led to strained diplomatic relations, including the recall of ambassadors and regional disagreements.
Requests for comments from the Kenyan and Congolese ministries of foreign affairs are pending, as the situation continues to develop.
