Women traders in the Democratic Republic of Congo: a pillar of the local economy
The Democratic Republic of Congo is a country where commercial activities play a major role in the survival of populations. Whether in the markets, at the door of their plots or even on the move, women like men often engage in petty trade to meet their needs and those of their families.
Aware of the importance of this economic sector, the Congolese government has identified Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) as strategic. Indeed, they contribute significantly to inclusive economic growth, regional development, job creation and poverty reduction. SMEs also play a vital role in sustainable development, gender equality and environmental sustainability.
In order to support and strengthen the entrepreneurship of Congolese women traders, several civil society organizations have received funding from UN Women. These organizations, such as the Cadre de Concertation de la Femme Congolaise (CAFCO) and the Association des Femmes Entrepreneurs du Congo (AFEECO), have carried out awareness-raising and capacity-building activities with traders in different markets in Kinshasa, Kongo -Central, Haut-Katanga and Nord-Kivu.
These actions are an integral part of the “Support Project for the Development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises” (PADMPME), the objective of which is to promote the growth of SMEs and increase employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for young people and women in some Congolese provinces. Indeed, the SME sector represents an important source of job creation through the national and local economy, both in urban and rural areas, and thus contributes to reducing economic and social inequalities, by offering more opportunities to women and young people.
During field activities, civil society organizations identified certain expectations from vendors, who hoped in particular for financial support. However, instead of providing them with money directly, the organizations preferred to provide them with advocacy skills, knowledge of state requirements for formal trade, and advice on the importance of maintaining a clean environment. to preserve their health.
Unfortunately, they also highlighted the difficulties that sellers face in obtaining the legal documents necessary to be in good standing with the laws of the country. Despite efforts to raise awareness and popularize legal texts, sellers encounter obstacles in obtaining the Trade and Personal Property Credit Register (RCCM), national identification or even the license at the provincial level..
Despite these challenges, the beneficiaries of these capacity building actions expressed their gratitude to the civil society organizations and asked for their continued support, as they still have a lot to learn to develop their business.
Women traders in the Democratic Republic of Congo play a vital role in the local economy and contribute to economic growth and the empowerment of women. It is therefore essential to continue to support and strengthen their capacities in order to promote their development and their positive impact on Congolese society