DRC drivers strike over poor roads in Beni

Drivers of bus companies at Beni in the DRC are on strike after suspending trips on the Beni -Butembo road.

The drivers have been complaining about the poor state of the roads. Difficulties in driving on this road due to the slow rehabilitation has caused pain to the drivers who are sometimes obliged to push their cars before being able to reach their destinations.

“The road is not very good. It is suppose to help all of us. The governor, mayor and the city police all use this road. The food we have today is thanks to this road. We pay taxes everyday but we don’t see the impact of the taxes we pay,” one of the drivers said.

As the strike action continues, the drivers union is also engaged in dialogue with DR Congo authorities during which they have been requesting the departure of the Chinese enterprise in charge of rehabilitation.

Another driver added: “We are requesting that the government should stop the contract with the Chinese company in charge of rehabilitating the road. The road has not been well rehabilitated ever since they came here.”

The drivers protest at Beni is having negative consequences on traders. The poor state of roads has led to an increase in the prices of goods.