The General Inspectorate of Finance assesses the challenges and progress of the Territorial Development Program
Since taking office, the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, has set up the Local Development Program for the 145 territories of the country. This project aims to promote development from decentralized territorial entities.
In order to monitor the progress of this program, a delegation from the General Inspectorate of Finance (IGF) visited several territories in the province of Kasai Oriental. Victor Butubenga Pandamadi, Inspector General of Finance and Deputy Head of Department of the IGF, as well as Rita Mandamuna, Inspector General of Finance and Head of Brigade in charge of the provinces, evaluated the work carried out in more than 8 sites.
However, during their visit to the territory of Tshilenge, the delegation was confronted with a disappointing reality. The inhabitants had destroyed the building under construction of the administrative center, blaming the use of fired bricks instead of cement ones, as in other sites. Despite this situation, Victor Butubenga remains optimistic about the end of the works and their impact on the development of the territories.
One of the main challenges for the IGF is to ensure that the contractors use the necessary materials and in the right quantity. This is why the IGF inspectors have been equipped with instruments to determine the quality of the works under construction, such as the dimensions of the reinforcements and the strength of the concrete.
Jonas Ilona Bessa, Deputy Administrator of the Katanda territory, pointed out that despite certain constraints such as the increase in the price of supplies, the work is progressing. He also hailed President Tshisekedi’s initiative to ensure good education and healthcare conditions for residents.
The delegation also visited other sites, such as the village of Bibanga where the road was almost non-existent, thus making it possible to observe the needs in terms of electricity in certain houses. The inspectors also made proposals to improve the study conditions of the pupils of the Kalenga primary school.
Despite the challenges encountered, the Territorial Development Program continues to move forward, and the General Inspectorate of Finance plays a crucial role in ensuring its smooth running and its positive impact on the country’s development.
In conclusion, the monitoring and evaluation of this program by the IGF are essential to guarantee the transparency and effectiveness of territorial development work. President Tshisekedi has made promoting local development a priority, and the IGF is actively involved in ensuring this happens on the ground