Armed rebels seize control of Heineken’s facilities in eastern DRC

Heineken says it has lost operational control of its facilities in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a region that has suffered increased conflict since the start of the year.

Fighting escalated in January when M23 rebels, who had been warring with Congolese troops, made rapid advances in the French-speaking country, taking control of major cities.

In March, Heineken said its operations in three eastern DRC cities would be suspended until it was safe to reopen.

The statement was made after some of its breweries were attacked and its depots raided as fighting between the rebels and the army intensified.

On Friday, the Dutch brewer said the situation had deteriorated.

Heineken said armed personnel had taken control of its facilities in Bukavu and Goma — two of eastern DRC’s biggest cities.

“The conditions required to operate responsibly and safely are no longer present and as of 12th June 2025, we have lost operational control,” the statement said.

The company said its operational facilities in other parts of the country are still functioning, but noted that it would continue assessing the situation.

“Our top priority is the safety and wellbeing of our employees,” the statement added.

“We have withdrawn all remaining staff from these sites and we have continued to support them financially.”

The fighting in DRC comes as Congo and Rwanda prepare to sign a draft peace agreement brokered by the United States next week.

The DRC has accused Rwanda of backing the rebels, but the neighbouring country has rejected the claim.