The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo says it has launched the first phase of a temporary program to receive foreign nationals, with an initial group of 15 people arriving in the capital, Kinshasa, on Friday.
In a communiqué issued by the Ministry of Communication and Media, authorities said the measure follows an earlier announcement on April 5 and is part of a strictly time-bound arrangement for the temporary hosting of third-country nationals.
“The first operational phase of the system has effectively begun,” the government said, adding that arrivals would follow a schedule set by competent authorities.
Officials stressed that the initiative is “strictly transitional, temporary and limited in time,” and does not constitute a long-term settlement or permanent relocation mechanism within Congolese territory.
According to the statement, those admitted will be granted short-stay permits in line with national immigration laws and the country’s international commitments. The government also noted that reception, supervision and care for the individuals are being financed by the United States government, under conditions aligned with security requirements and administrative regulations.
The announcement comes as countries increasingly cooperate on migration management, including temporary relocation or transit arrangements for displaced or stranded populations. While the communiqué does not specify the nationalities of those received, such programs are often linked to broader international efforts involving partners such as the United Nations and bilateral agreements with Western governments.
Kinshasa reiterated its commitment to humanitarian principles while underscoring national sovereignty.
“The government reaffirms its attachment to the principles of humanity and solidarity, in strict respect of national sovereignty and the superior interests of the nation,” the statement said.
No further details were immediately provided on the duration of stay or the next phases of the program.
