Organ trafficking in Kinshasa: the Congolese government categorically denies
Recently, alarming reports have circulated on social networks, reporting organ trafficking in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, the Congolese government quickly denied these accusations, saying that there is no infrastructure or expertise necessary to carry out such operations.
During a press conference, the Deputy Minister of Health, Serge Olene, explained that organ transplantation requires special conditions, such as suitable infrastructure, experienced professionals and compatibility tests. He pointed out that Kinshasa does not have the necessary resources to carry out such complex operations.
Indeed, the removal and transplantation of organs require very strict deadlines to ensure their viability. For example, a heart must be transplanted within 3 to 4 hours of removal, while a kidney can survive outside the body for one to two days. In addition, HLA (human leukocyte antigen) compatibility tests are necessary to avoid any rejection.
Deputy Minister Olene also pointed out that the preservation and transport of organs requires specialized laboratories, which are currently not available in Kinshasa. He wanted to reassure the population by saying that the advanced technology and skills required to perform organ transplants are not yet present in the DRC.
The government and national police have also denied allegations that bodies are being buried to clear traces of organ trafficking. They claim that no such cases were discovered during the investigations carried out.
Despite these official denials, the population of Kinshasa remains suspicious, in particular towards the “Ketch” taxi drivers who have been associated with these accusations. Authorities have set up patrols and checkpoints to hunt down criminals, but public trust remains fragile.
It is therefore important to exercise caution in the face of information circulating on social networks, by verifying its veracity with official and reliable sources. In the case of organ trafficking in Kinshasa, the Congolese government has clearly denied these accusations, pointing out the lack of infrastructure and expertise to carry out such operations