The decline in the exchange rate observed on the parallel market in the city of Goma, in the province of North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a hot topic that is attracting the attention of local economists. According to experts interviewed by Radio Okapi, this drop indicates an appreciation of the local currency against the US dollar. The current exchange rate is around 2300 Congolese francs for 1 US dollar.
Economic operators have expressed their wish to see the exchange rate fall further, reaching historic levels of 1,500 Congolese francs per dollar. However, it is important to note that this decline is not uniform in all economic sectors. Supermarkets and communication companies maintain an exchange rate of 2600 Congolese francs for 1 dollar. In addition, the prices of basic necessities have not been revised downwards, which raises questions about the concrete impact of this reduction in the exchange rate on the purchasing power of the inhabitants of Goma.
Residents of the city hope that this drop in the exchange rate will affect the prices of basic necessities, which remain high despite the fluctuation of the exchange rate. They are also calling for greater exchange rate stability, so that all economic players apply the same rate to avoid disparities.
It should be recalled that about two weeks ago the exchange rate on the parallel market was between 2500 and 2600 Congolese francs for 1 US dollar. This current decline is therefore seen as a ray of hope for the inhabitants of Goma, who are waiting to see its real impact on their daily lives.
In conclusion, the fall in the exchange rate observed on the parallel market of Goma raises questions about its real impact on the local economy and the purchasing power of the inhabitants. It is necessary to closely monitor the evolution of this situation in order to understand the concrete consequences of this appreciation of the local currency