In Congo, six people have been killed in crack down on a banned protest against President Joseph Kabila.

According to reports, the government forces fired live rounds and tear gas on protesters who had gathered in Kinshasa after Catholic church leaders called for a mass peaceful demonstration against Kabila's 17-year rule.

The UN peacekeeping mission in the country said six people were killed in Kinshasa and fifty-seven others were injured in the rallies across the country.

Pope Francis, who was in Peru on the final day of a South American tour, called on all parties in the country to "avoid all forms of violence and seek solutions for the common good."

MONUSCO said 94 people were arrested across the country.

The internet, email and social media messaging networks were cut in the capital ahead of the march.

Security forces installed roadblocks on major routes and armed officers conducted ID checks.AFP