DRC fish traders protest immobilization of 350 tons of fish

Fish traders in the Kasaï-Central province of the Democratic Republic of Congo are raising alarms over the prolonged immobilization of thirteen wagons carrying more than 350 tons of fish destined for Kananga. The cargo, which has been held in Luena since January 2026, represents a significant financial loss for the traders.

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The wagons have remained immobilized for more than five months in Luena, in the Haut-Lomami province.

Traders accuse the Société nationale des chemins de fer du Congo (SNCC), the national railway company, of being responsible for the situation. They report that the wagons have been stationary for over five months, impacting their ability to supply markets with salted fish, smoked fish, and small fish. Despite the inability to access their goods, the traders continue to pay various taxes.

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The escorts have started selling our products. Our friends on site observe that the Luena market is flooded with fish and small fish coming out of our wagons.

Leonard Mpumbu, the provincial president of the National Association of Fish Sellers, stated that some of the fish is being sold locally by individuals escorting the wagons. He alleges that the Luena market is now flooded with fish and small fish originating from their immobilized cargo, further exacerbating their losses.

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The delays are due to technical difficulties, including lack of fuel and recurring locomotive breakdowns.

The SNCC has refuted these accusations, with representative Emmanuel Kalonji citing technical difficulties such as fuel shortages and recurring locomotive failures as the cause of the delays. Kalonji assured that the merchandise remains secure and under surveillance. He also stated that the situation is being resolved, confirming that the wagons have departed Luena and are currently en route to their final destination in Kamina.

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We have contacted the director of the Central region. As we speak, the wagons have moved. They are currently in Kamina.