Armed rebels seize Heineken facilities in eastern DR Congo amid escalating violence

Heineken announced the suspension of operations at its facilities in Bukavu and Goma, two major cities in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), due to escalating violence in the region. The company stated that armed groups had taken control of its sites, making it impossible to operate responsibly and safely. As a result, Heineken withdrew all remaining staff from these locations and continued to provide them with financial support.

The conflict in eastern DRC intensified earlier in the year when the M23 rebel group, reportedly backed by Rwanda, advanced rapidly, capturing significant territories, including Bukavu and Goma. This escalation led to widespread violence, looting, and displacement of civilians. Hospitals in Goma were overwhelmed with casualties, and hundreds of thousands of people fled the area to escape the fighting.

Heineken’s local subsidiary, Bralima, operates four breweries in the DRC, producing popular brands such as Heineken and Primus. The Bukavu and Goma facilities employed approximately 1,000 people directly and indirectly. Before the suspension, these operations accounted for about one-third of Heineken’s business in the country.

The closure of Heineken’s breweries has had a significant impact on the local economy. Businesses like bars and restaurants in Bukavu and Goma have faced shortages of beer, leading to closures and financial difficulties. For instance, Adolphe Amani, a bar owner in Bukavu, expressed concern over the inability to cover essential expenses due to the lack of beer supply following the brewery’s shutdown.

The conflict has also disrupted essential services. The state water utility, REGIDESO, relies on Bralima for about 40% of its revenues in South Kivu province. The brewery’s closure has raised concerns about the continuation of water purification operations, with potential risks to public health.

Heineken has emphasized that the safety and well-being of its employees are its top priority. The company continues to monitor the situation closely and has suspended operations in the affected areas until it is safe to resume. Despite the challenges, Heineken maintains operations in other parts of the DRC that are not affected by the conflict.

The situation in eastern DRC remains volatile, with ongoing clashes between government forces and rebel groups. International efforts to mediate peace have been ongoing, but a resolution to the conflict has yet to be achieved. The humanitarian and economic impacts of the violence continue to affect the region, with local communities facing significant hardships.