Uganda Airlines has today announced the suspension of all flights to Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) due to intensifying clashes between the Congolese army and the M23 rebels.
The decision comes as violence escalates in eastern Congo, where the rebel group claims to have seized key territories, including Goma, sending shockwaves across the region.
With growing instability and fears of a full-scale humanitarian crisis, Uganda Airlines has prioritized passenger safety, marking yet another disruption in regional travel.
According to a statement from Uganda Airlines, the suspension is temporary but necessary due to the unpredictable security situation.
Passengers booked on the Kinshasa route have been advised to seek alternative arrangements, with the airline offering support for affected travelers.
“The safety of our passengers and crew remains our top priority. Given the current instability in Kinshasa and the surrounding areas, Uganda Airlines has decided to temporarily suspend flights until further notice,” the statement read.
The move comes just days after Kinshasa was plunged into chaos, with businesses shut and streets filled with protesters as tensions between the Congolese government and Rwanda continue to rise over alleged support for M23 rebels.
The March 23 Movement (M23), a rebel group composed of mainly Tutsi fighters, has been battling the Congolese army (FARDC) for months, demanding political reforms and accusing the government of discrimination against certain ethnic groups.
Their latest offensive has seen them advance towards major cities like Goma, a key economic hub in eastern DRC. This has triggered international concerns, with the U.S. and the UN calling for urgent intervention to prevent further bloodshed.
Kinshasa, once considered safe from rebel activity, is now experiencing ripple effects from the unrest, with growing fears of internal instability as government forces struggle to contain the rebellion.
Uganda and the DRC share strong economic ties, with trade between the two nations exceeding $500 million annually.
With flights now suspended, businesses that rely on air transport especially exports like fresh produce, electronics, and pharmaceuticals will take a hit.
Kinshasa is a key market for Ugandan traders, and many now face uncertainty over delayed shipments, potential revenue losses, and rising transportation costs as they seek alternative routes.
“We depend on Uganda Airlines to transport our goods quickly. Now, we are forced to rely on road transport, which is costly and unsafe,” said a Ugandan trader who frequently ships products to DRC.
However, with Uganda Airlines pulling out of Kinshasa, it signals growing concerns about stability in the region, potentially influencing Uganda’s future diplomatic and security policies.
While Uganda has not been directly involved in the fighting, the situation remains volatile.
While speaking to the media yesterday, the Ugandan Minister for Regional Affairs, Okello Oryem lamented the situation as “very tense.”
Security experts warn that if the M23 conflict continues to escalate, Uganda could face refugee influxes, border security threats, and potential economic fallout.
The suspension of flights is a significant setback for Uganda Airlines, which had been expanding its regional footprint with direct routes to major African cities.
While the airline has assured passengers that it will resume operations once stability is restored, aviation experts caution that prolonged instability could impact Uganda’s long-term plans for regional air connectivity.
