By Zawadi Nanyonga,
KAMPALA
Uganda Airlines has suspended its flights to Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), citing ongoing unrest as conflict escalates between M23 rebels and the DRC’s FARDC army.
In a statement obtained by Parrots Media, the airline announced that the suspension will remain in place until further notice.
“Uganda Airlines wishes to inform the public of the suspension of its flights to Kinshasa with immediate effect,” read statement in parts.
The decision comes in the wake of widespread protests in Kinshasa earlier today, where demonstrators attacked and set fire to Uganda House and four embassies, including those of Rwanda, France, and Belgium. The protesters accused these countries of supporting rebel activities in the DRC.
On Tuesday, Col. Deo Akiiki, the deputy defense spokesperson for the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), stated that M23 activities in eastern DRC do not impact UPDF operations. He assured the public of the safety and security of cross-border areas.
The airline has not provided a timeline for resuming flights to Kinshasa, leaving travelers uncertain as tensions in the region continue to escalate.
