Kasai, a central region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), remains particularly affected by isolation and poverty. President Félix Tshisekedi has however initiated some projects supposed to facilitate access to the region and improve its infrastructure. However, since he came to power five years ago, nothing has worked.
The Mbuji-Mayi-Kananga road, over a distance of 188 km, is particularly striking: only 17 km have seen the start of work. However, it is expected that the Egyptian company SAMCRETE will carry out this work, for which the State has already disbursed 27 million dollars. But the situation is blocked, while little progress is visible on other projects planned in the region, such as the construction of the University of Mbuji-Mayi, the port of Ndomba, the solar power plant of Tshipuka or even the Kananga-Kalamba-Mbuji road linking the DRC to Angola.
Rumors of shenanigans and bad practices are multiplying around these projects. Officials would not be innocent. The 100 days project is a perfect example of the shenanigans that plague these projects. The Kananga-Mbuji-Mayi road is sinking, as are other projects in the region, largely due to the authorities’ inaction.
The government is encountering many difficulties, perhaps in part because of some of its members, such as Nicolas Kazadi Kadima, Minister of Finance and personal friend of Félix Tshisekedi, but not very present in the actions of the UDPS, the presidential party . As for Alexis Gisaro, Minister of Public Works, his appointment remains obscure with the UDPS. Governor Mathias Kabeya is still facing financial embezzlement. Tensions are therefore present and hamper the development of the region.
To learn more about the projects implemented by the DRC government, do not hesitate to consult the other articles of the blog