The rise in the prices of basic necessities in the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to worry the population. The Public Expenditure Observatory (ODEP) conducted a survey to identify the causes of this high cost of living and the decline in purchasing power.
According to ODEP, one of the main reasons for this situation is the perpetuation of the neo-colonial system. The consequences of the country’s past economic exploitation continue to have an impact on its current situation. Foreign companies, often in collusion with local elites, take advantage of the DRC’s natural resources without really benefiting the population.
Moreover, the inappropriate application of liberal economic theories in public policies is also singled out by the ODEP. These economic approaches favor free competition and the reduction of state intervention, but they do not take into account the specific realities of the DRC. As a result, the economic policies put in place fail to stimulate growth and improve the living conditions of the population.
The ODEP also underlines the complicity of the ruling classes with imperialism. The close ties between certain Congolese political and economic elites and foreign powers influence the country’s political and economic decisions, often to the detriment of the well-being of Congolese citizens.
Finally, endemic corruption and embezzlement of public revenues are scourges that hinder good governance in the DRC. Funds intended for the development of the country and the improvement of public services are often diverted for personal gain, which contributes to the inefficiency of public institutions and the impoverishment of the population.
Faced with these observations, the ODEP proposes radical solutions to remedy this situation. A more equitable management of economic resources, an effective fight against corruption, and a better consideration of the specific realities of the country in the development of public policies are necessary to promote sustainable economic development and improve the living conditions of the Congolese.
By publishing this study, ODEP hopes to challenge the Congolese government to prioritize solutions with the resources available to the country. She also wishes to sensitize Congolese intellectuals so that they can propose reflections to change the country’s policies.
It is time to take concrete measures to reverse this trend and allow the Congolese population to live decently without being overwhelmed by the high cost of living. The DRC has enormous potential, so it is essential to put in place fairer and more effective economic and governance policies to guarantee a better future for all its citizens