On October 3, 2026, in Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Félix Tshisekedi expressed his regrets over the armed incidents that occurred on August 26, 2026, on Makoloko Island, a border region between the DRC and the Republic of Congo. The incidents involved a confrontation between security forces from both countries, resulting in the death of a young boy and the capture of two Republic of Congo soldiers.
During his working visit, President Tshisekedi reaffirmed his commitment to preserving the historical and fraternal relations between the people of the DRC and the Republic of Congo. He was welcomed by his counterpart, Denis Sassou Nguesso, at the Brazzaville Presidential Palace. Tshisekedi's visit aimed to ease tensions and prevent further escalation of the situation, which could have damaged relations between the two nations.
The DRC President emphasized the historical and human proximity between the populations on both sides of the Congo River. He stated that it was erroneous and senseless to have such incidents occur, given the shared heritage of the two nations. Tshisekedi also involved his Vice Prime Ministers in charge of Interior and Defense in the efforts to address the situation and prevent similar incidents in the future.
To prevent similar incidents, Tshisekedi's administration plans to work with the Republic of Congo to establish mechanisms that will prevent future clashes. The two countries will work together to clarify the circumstances surrounding the events and identify measures to strengthen cooperation between security forces operating along the riverine border.
As part of the efforts to ease tensions, President Tshisekedi has committed to meeting with individuals affected by the Makoloko Island incidents. This meeting will examine the modalities of potential compensation to be provided by the DRC, based on the conclusions of a joint report by delegations from both countries.
The incidents on Makoloko Island occurred when a mixed patrol of Republic of Congo gendarmes and sailors was involved in an incident that resulted in the death of a young boy. The situation escalated with the intervention of DRC Armed Forces (FARDC) elements, who attempted to intercept the patrol.
The DRC and Republic of Congo have agreed to work together to establish responsibilities, determine appropriate measures, and strengthen cooperation between security forces operating along the riverine border. President Tshisekedi's visit marks a step towards resolving the situation and promoting dialogue between Kinshasa and Brazzaville.
Key points
- President Tshisekedi expressed regrets over the armed incidents on Makoloko Island and announced compensation for victims.
- The incidents resulted in the death of a young boy and the capture of two Republic of Congo soldiers.
- The two countries will work together to prevent similar incidents and strengthen cooperation between security forces.
