Residents of Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), have expressed frustration and disappointment following recent remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who referenced Congolese migrants during a meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Speaking about global migration and U.S. border policies, Trump stated: “Many, many people come from the Congo. I don’t know what that is, but they came from the Congo and all over the world they came in.” The comment, perceived by many as dismissive and uninformed, has sparked criticism in the DRC and beyond.
Kinshasa resident Jonathan Bawolo responded: “We are a country that is so rich that we’re not selfish, and we don’t harass foreigners in the streets to ask for their identity papers.” His comments reflect a broader sentiment among Congolese citizens who see Trump’s remarks as perpetuating negative stereotypes about Africa.
This is not the first time Trump has drawn criticism for statements about African nations. In March, he questioned U.S. foreign aid to Lesotho, saying, “no one has ever heard of Lesotho,” while denouncing what he called wasteful spending. The DRC, rich in natural resources including cobalt, copper, and gold, faces significant socio-economic and political challenges, but many Congolese feel such comments ignore the country’s complexities and dignity.
Trump’s statements come at a time when migration from African countries to Europe and North America continues to be a hot-button issue, often overshadowing the underlying drivers such as conflict, economic instability, and climate change. Critics say oversimplified rhetoric risks fueling xenophobia and undermining international cooperation on migration and development. Local analysts and civil society leaders in Kinshasa are calling for more respectful global dialogue and nuanced understanding of African realities, urging political leaders to avoid language that alienates or devalues entire nations.
