Heineken says it has lost operational control of its
facilities in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a
region that has suffered increased conflict since the start of the year.
Fighting escalated in January when M23 rebels, who had been
warring with Congolese troops, made rapid advances in the French-speaking
country, taking control of major cities.
In March, Heineken said its operations in three eastern DRC
cities would be suspended until it was safe to reopen.
The statement was made after some of its breweries were
attacked and its depots raided as fighting between the rebels and the army
intensified.
On Friday, the Dutch brewer said the situation had
deteriorated.
Heineken said armed personnel had taken control of its
facilities in Bukavu and Goma — two of eastern DRC’s biggest cities.
“The conditions required to operate responsibly and safely
are no longer present and as of 12th June 2025, we have lost operational
control,” the statement said.
The company said its operational facilities in other parts
of the country are still functioning, but noted that it would continue
assessing the situation.
“Our top priority is the safety and wellbeing of our
employees,” the statement added.
“We have withdrawn all remaining staff from these sites and
we have continued to support them financially.”
The fighting in DRC comes as Congo and Rwanda prepare to
sign a draft peace agreement brokered by the United States next week.
The DRC has accused Rwanda of backing the rebels, but the
neighbouring country has rejected the claim.
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