The importance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the economic development of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) cannot be underestimated. Faced with this reality, the Congolese government has identified the SME sector as strategic, as it contributes to economic growth, job creation and poverty reduction. In order to strengthen this vital sector, Congolese civil society organizations have benefited from funding from UN Women to raise awareness among traders in the various markets of the country.
The Congolese Women’s Consultation Framework (CAFCO) and the Association of Women Entrepreneurs of Congo (AFEECO) were responsible for carrying out field activities aimed at building the capacity of vendors. As part of the micro, small and medium-sized enterprise development support project (PADMPME), these organizations have organized training to enable traders to better understand the state’s requirements for formal trade, advocacy and the need to maintain a clean and healthy environment.
The project aims not only to support the growth of SMEs, but also to increase employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for young people and women in certain provinces of the DRC. As an important source of job creation, the SME sector contributes to reducing economic and social inequalities by providing more economic opportunities for women and young people.
The speakers pointed out that the project spans two years and includes different components such as support for entrepreneurship opportunities for youth and women, SME development and capacity building and project management. The objective is to provide sellers with the necessary tools to defend their interests with the country’s authorities.
However, the speakers also mentioned certain difficulties, in particular the lack of effective functioning of the “one-stop shop” responsible for allocating to sellers the legal documents necessary to comply with the law. Despite these obstacles, the project beneficiaries expressed their gratitude to the partner organizations and asked for continued support so that they could continue to learn and grow.
In conclusion, investment in the SME sector in the DRC is essential to foster inclusive economic growth, reduce poverty and promote gender equality. Thanks to civil society initiatives supported by UN-Women, Congolese vendors have the opportunity to build their capacities and improve their economic situation. However, challenges remain and require continued attention from the authorities to ensure an enabling environment for SME development in the country