DRC Repatriates 121 Congolese From South Africa

The Democratic Republic of Congo has repatriated 121 of its citizens from South Africa in a government-organised operation following xenophobic violence that affected African migrant communities.

The group arrived at N'djili International Airport in Kinshasa on Friday, 17 July 2026, aboard a special Air Congo flight chartered by the Congolese government. The returnees included women and children, according to the DRC Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The ministry described the journey as the first voluntary repatriation flight arranged in response to the violence reported in South Africa on 5 and 6 May. The operation allowed Congolese citizens who wanted to leave the country to return home safely rather than remain in an uncertain security situation.

A Government-Led Humanitarian Response

The flight represents a direct response by Kinshasa to the concerns of Congolese nationals living abroad. The Foreign Affairs Ministry said the operation reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting Congolese citizens outside the country.

It also thanked the South African authorities for their cooperation in carrying out the repatriation.

The use of a specially chartered Air Congo flight gave the returnees an organised route back to Kinshasa. It also showed the importance of coordination between diplomatic officials, transport services and authorities in both countries when citizens face danger abroad.

Reports by APA News and Digital Congo confirmed that the flight was voluntary and carried 121 people to Kinshasa.

What Happened in South Africa?

The repatriation followed violent incidents targeting foreign African communities in South Africa in early May 2026.