The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has lodged a formal protest against Kenya's appointment of Judy Kiaria Nkumiri as Consul-General to Goma, citing a violation of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.
In a statement dated August 16, the DRC government stated that it was not consulted on the matter, triggering a diplomatic row between the two nations.
The Congolese government's protest centers on a principle of international law, which requires a host nation's consent for a diplomatic appointment.
"The DRC recalls that, according to international law and diplomatic procedures, the appointment of a head of a consular post requires prior agreement from the Congolese authorities and an exequatur from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Democratic Republic of the Congo," the statement from Kinshasa read.
The DRC government has stated that it expects to be officially notified by Nairobi regarding the appointment before it can provide a formal response.
"Kinshasa expects, therefore, to be officially notified by Nairobi through established diplomatic channels, and will respond exclusively via these channels in the spirit of courtesy and mutual respect," the DRC government added.
The Congolese government noted that Goma, a security hotspot located in the mineral-rich North Kivu province, is under illegal occupation by M23 rebels.
It stated that this conflict has resulted in serious human rights violations and that any announcement of a consulate in Goma would be inappropriate without the consent of the DRC government.
"The DRC therefore calls for caution and discernment in public communication to avoid any misunderstanding, speculation, or appearance of legitimizing the ongoing illegal occupation," the Congolese government stated.
The Congolese government also stressed the importance of mutual respect in diplomatic relations and reaffirmed its position on sovereignty.
The DRC's State Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner confirmed she held talks on August 16, 2025, with Kenya's Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.
She emphasised the need to respect diplomatic procedures regarding the proposed consul in Goma.
