The rehabilitation of the International Fair of Kinshasa (Fikin) is at a standstill, following persistent disagreements between the Turkish company Milvet and the managers of Fikin. Milvet would have required a camp of 6 hectares for an occupation of 10 years, going from the space Plazza to the esplanade of Fikin. The company also offered to buy back the space in case the work took longer than the set time. Fikin officials said the Turks were willing to pay $60,000 a month to lease the occupied 6 hectares.
The construction company, Milvet, had already started the rehabilitation works of the Fikin, but it was stopped because of these disagreements. The rehabilitation project includes the construction of an exhibition center, an amusement park, a shopping center, a conference center, a hotel and a 20,000-seat multifunctional arena seated. In addition, the Fikin will also house a banquet hall and a congress hall that can accommodate international conferences and seminars.
The rehabilitation works of the Fikin are important to improve the tourist attractiveness of Kinshasa. Indeed, the exhibition and conference center will make it possible to organize major events that will attract local and international investors. The amusement park will also be a big attraction for tourists, creating many jobs and boosting the local economy.
However, it is important that the parties involved in the rehabilitation of the Fikin find common ground. The authorities should ensure that the works are carried out in accordance with the terms of the initial agreement and take into account the concerns of all parties.
Ultimately, the rehabilitation of the Fikin is essential for the development of the city of Kinshasa and the Democratic Republic of Congo as a whole. Investments in tourism infrastructure across the country should be encouraged to stimulate economic growth and create jobs for Congolese