Title: Tension rises in Goma following taxi drivers’ protest against traffic restrictions
Introduction:
The city of Goma, capital of North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, found itself under tension this Monday, January 29, 2024. The main arteries of the city, particularly in the northern part, were littered with stones, the result of the protest of taxi driver corporations in the motorcycle sector. The latter declared a day without public transport to demand the cancellation of the restrictive traffic measures which prohibit them from any activity beyond 6 p.m. This decision by the mayor of the city of Goma for security reasons provoked various reactions among the population.
The discontent of taxi drivers:
The measure taken by the mayor of Goma, prohibiting the circulation of taxi and private motorcycles beyond 6 p.m., aroused the anger of taxi drivers. The latter believe that this restriction harms their activities, which can sometimes extend beyond 8 p.m. To express their disagreement, they barricaded the city’s main roads, making traffic difficult for students, workers and residents who rely on public transportation.
The consequences for the population:
This disruption in public transport has caused difficulties for many residents of Goma. Students, especially those riding school buses, have had difficulty getting to school. Likewise, public and private service workers encountered difficulties reaching their workplaces, disrupting daily activities in the city.
Measures taken by law enforcement:
Faced with this situation, the police intervened to clear the barricaded roads. They undertook law enforcement operations by removing obstacles on the avenues and streets of Goma. However, this action has not yet completely restored circulation.
Conclusion:
The taxi drivers’ protest in Goma highlighted existing tensions between local authorities and workers in the motorcycle sector. While taxi drivers claim their right to carry out their activity outside restricted hours, the city mayor insists on strict security measures. This situation highlights the challenges Goma residents face in getting around the city. It is necessary for authorities and workers in the motorcycle sector to find common ground in order to guarantee both safety and the continuity of economic activities in the city.