The PDL-145 T in the Democratic Republic of Congo: an ambitious plan for local development
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is at an important turning point in its history with the implementation of the Local Development Plan – PDL-145 T. This ambitious plan aims to reduce spatial inequalities, revitalize local economies and improve the living conditions of Congolese populations living in areas hitherto poorly served by basic infrastructure and services.
This program, initiated by President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, marks a real break in the approach to development in the DRC. It aims to promote the emergence of local economies and foster a rapid convergence of incomes and living conditions between rural and urban populations.
The PDL-145 T foresees a total investment of 1.66 billion dollars, mainly financed by the Congolese government. Development partners are also called upon to speed up its implementation. Each territory will benefit from a package of priority investments with an average value of 10 million dollars, divided between the three Program Executing Agencies (AEP): the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), the Central Office for Execution and Coordination (BCECO) and the Unit for the Execution of Financing for Fragile States (CFEF).
The first infrastructures of the PDL-145 T are eagerly awaited. Nearly 50% of the 1,210 primary schools, 788 health centers and 145 administrative buildings planned in the first phase of the project will be delivered at the beginning of August and during September. The other works will be delivered by the end of the year.
However, the announcement of these first works coincides curiously with that of the audit of the General Inspectorate of Finance (IGF) on the PDL-145 T. This initiative, although important to ensure transparency and good governance, raises questions about its unilateral implementation and its possible impact on the progress of the project.
It is important to note that management control is an essential tool to ensure the proper use of funds and the achievement of the objectives set by the PDL-145 T. However, it is crucial to ensure that this audit is carried out in accordance with the institutional framework established for the implementation of the plan, in order to avoid any disruption that could affect the progress of the work.
It is also important to clarify any suspicions and allegations made by certain NGOs, in order to preserve the credibility of the PDL-145 T and to guarantee that the massive investments planned really benefit the local populations.
In conclusion, the PDL-145 T represents an unprecedented opportunity for the DRC to stimulate its grassroots development, reduce spatial inequalities and transform the living conditions of the populations.. Despite the challenges and criticisms, it is essential to support and strengthen the implementation of this plan, ensuring transparency and the proper management of funds, to ensure a better future for Congolese citizens