Congolese Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the National Economy, Vital Kamerhe spoke during a briefing on the scarcity of corn in the Kasaï and Grand Katanga regions. However, instead of answering questions, the politician attacks the opposition and the march it has scheduled for May 20. According to him, this much-heralded march will not solve the problem of high prices, but rather leave the market flooded with products, the very day after the demonstration. The objective of this opposition march was to denounce the prices of basic necessities, the exchange rate, insecurity in the East and the chaotic electoral process underway in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
It should be remembered that the Congolese population is faced with galloping inflation which has led to a substantial increase in basic necessities, including corn. In rural areas, farmers also face the consequences of climate change which affects harvests. A situation that could remain as such, if nothing is put in place to remedy it.
Despite the insistence of the government, the organizers of the march maintain their position, highlighting the need to fight against the high cost of living for the well-being of the Congolese population. In any case, it is up to the government, politicians and all actors in the agricultural sector to find solutions to stem the food crisis currently raging in the Democratic Republic of Congo.