In a commendable act of humanitarian aid, Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has successfully transferred 45 drivers from Tanzania, Burundi, and Kenya back to their respective embassies. The drivers, tasked with delivering food supplies for the World Food Programme (WFP), were stranded in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), due to intense clashes involving the M23 rebels and the Congolese army (FARDC).
The drivers, comprising 34 Tanzanians, nine Burundians, and three Kenyans, found themselves in the crossfire near Goma International Airport. As the conflict intensified, they were forced to take shelter under their vehicles, surviving without essentials like food and water. Their plight was broadcast through social media, leading to their eventual rescue by M23 forces.
The rescue was orchestrated by M23 spokesperson Lt Col Willy Ngoma, who after securing the area, led the operation to safely escort the drivers to the Rwandan border. Among the survivors, Burundian driver Ndinzayaha Shadrack shared his harrowing experience, “None of us believed we would survive. The airport became a battlefield, with bullets flying over us. I am truly grateful to M23 for saving us and giving us hope when we had none.”
Another driver, Ndayizeye Alexandre from Burundi, also expressed his relief and gratitude, “M23 saved our lives, and I can’t thank them enough. May God bless them. Without them, we would have died.”
Kenyan driver David Kahiga highlighted the dire circumstances before their rescue, “I never thought I would be standing here today. We spent four days without food or water, with bullets flying above us, but they came and rescued us.”
Once in Rwanda, the drivers were provided with immediate necessities including food, shelter, and medical care, courtesy of the Rwandan government. Alex Mutamba, Division Manager for EAC and Eastern Africa Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated, “We help everyone, regardless of nationality. If others find themselves stranded, we will assist them as well.”
The drivers were eventually handed over to their embassies in Kigali, where arrangements for their repatriation are currently underway. The embassies of Tanzania, Burundi, and Kenya have expressed their gratitude for Rwanda’s swift and compassionate response to this crisis.
This incident underscores the volatile security situation in Eastern DRC and highlights the challenges faced by humanitarian workers and logistics in conflict zones. It also showcases Rwanda’s commitment to regional stability and humanitarian aid, fostering goodwill and cooperation in the East African Community.
As these drivers return home, their stories serve as a testament to the dangers of their work and the unpredictable nature of conflict zones, emphasizing the urgent need for lasting peace in the region.
