The government stressed that the initiative is strictly temporary and limited in scope….reports Asian Lite News
Democratic Republic of the Congo has begun implementing a temporary programme to host foreign nationals, with authorities confirming that the first group has already arrived in the capital, Kinshasa.
In an official communiqué issued by the Ministry of Communication and Media, the government said the initial phase of the programme became operational on 17 April 2026. The announcement follows an earlier statement released on 5 April outlining plans to establish a temporary reception mechanism for third country nationals.
According to the statement, a first contingent of 15 individuals arrived in Kinshasa on the same day, in line with a schedule set by the relevant authorities. Officials described this as the beginning of a controlled and phased process.
The government stressed that the initiative is strictly temporary and limited in scope. It clarified that the arrangement does not constitute a long term settlement plan or permanent relocation scheme within the country. Authorities sought to underline that the measure is transitional in nature, aimed at addressing specific and time bound needs.
Those admitted under the programme will be allowed to stay in the country on short term permits, in accordance with national immigration laws governing the entry and residence of foreign nationals. The government added that the initiative is also aligned with international commitments undertaken by the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Officials further noted that the reception, supervision and care of the individuals involved will be financed by the United States government. The process, they said, will adhere to established security requirements, administrative procedures and recognised standards for the orderly management of population movements.
The statement also emphasised that the programme will be implemented with full respect for national sovereignty and in line with the country’s broader interests. Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to humanitarian principles and solidarity, positioning the initiative as part of the country’s contribution to international cooperation efforts.
While details about the nationalities or specific circumstances of those arriving were not disclosed, the government indicated that further updates would be provided as the programme progresses.
The launch of the initiative marks a notable step in the country’s engagement with international migration management efforts, as Kinshasa seeks to balance humanitarian considerations with domestic legal and administrative frameworks.
