Armed rebels conquer Heineken locations in the east of the DR Congo

Armed rebels conquer Heineken locations in the east of the DR Congo

Heineken lost the operational control over his facilities in the conflict -affected areas in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo and deducted its employees from there, as the Dutch Brauereiriese announced on Friday.

A look back at the situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo

As early as March, the company announced that the operating processes in three eastern cities were exposed to safe conditions until the restoration of secure conditions. This happened after some of his breweries were attacked between the army and rebels during the fights and his depots were robbed.

Current developments in Bukavu and Goma

on Friday Heineken said that the situation had further deteriorated. Armed groups have taken control of the institutions in Bukavu and Goma, the two largest cities in the eastern Congo. These regions are now under the control of the rebels.

Heineken’s security measures

"The conditions for a responsible and safe operation are no longer available, and since June 12, 2025 we have lost operational control," said the company in a statement. Heineken’s subsidiary in Congo, Bralima, remains active in other parts of the country that are not affected by conflicts. The company emphasizes that it continues to observe the developing situation.

company and employment

Heineken operates four breweries in Congo, which, in addition to Heineken beer, also produce other popular brands such as Primus. The facilities in Bukavu employed around 1,000 people, both directly and indirectly.

priority for the security of the employees

"Our top priority is the security and well -being of our employees," said the company in its Friday declaration. "We have deducted all remaining employees from these locations and continued to support them financially."

market influence and sales

Almost 14 % of Heineken’s total income comes from shops in the Middle East and in Africa, with Congo taking a significant market position with a population of over 100 million. The operating processes in the cities of Goma, Bukavu and Uvira previously made up about a third of Heineken’s business in Congo.

The escalating conflict

The fights in the eastern Congo have increased this year because the M23 rebel group made a rapid advance, which fueled fears about a larger conflict. Congo accuses Rwanda of supporting the M23 by sending troops and weapons, while Rwanda has long denied these allegations.

Pacific efforts

On Wednesday, the two countries together with the United States announced that their technical teams have signed a draft for a peace agreement that is expected to be signed next week.