By HAN News Desk
LUBUMBASHI – The Somali Ambassador to Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ilyas Ali Hassan, has held a high-level meeting with Martin Kazembe Shula, the Governor of Haut Katanga Province — home to one of the largest Somali communities in the DRC.
The meeting, which took place in the provincial capital Lubumbashi, was also attended by Michel Kabwe Mwamba, Speaker of the Haut Katanga Provincial Parliament, and Patrick Afwimbi Mumamba, Mayor of Lubumbashi.
During the discussions, Ambassador Ilyas raised key issues concerning the welfare of Somali nationals residing in the DRC, particularly in the Haut Katanga region. He emphasized the importance of improving access to essential services, including consular support, documentation, and business facilitation for Somali traders who form a vital part of the local economy.
The ambassador also discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between Somali diplomatic missions and Congolese provincial authorities to ensure the safety, legal protection, and integration of Somali residents in the country.
Governor Kazembe and other DRC officials welcomed the ambassador’s visit, expressing readiness to enhance collaboration and ensure that Somali nationals living in the province can contribute positively to local development while enjoying their rights under Congolese law.
Ambassador Ilyas reaffirmed the Somali government’s commitment to protecting the interests of its citizens abroad and fostering stronger bilateral ties with the Democratic Republic of Congo through trade, cultural exchange, and diplomatic engagement.
