Title: The Evolution of the Local Development Program in the Democratic Republic of Congo: A Challenge for the General Inspectorate of Finance
Introduction :
The Local Development Program of the 145 territories of the Democratic Republic of Congo, initiated by President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, aims to decentralize the development of the country. However, its progress worries the General Inspectorate of Finance (IGF), which recently carried out an assessment mission in several territories of the province of Kasai Oriental. This mission allows us to see the progress but also the challenges facing the program.
A disappointing observation in the territory of Tshilenge:
During the visit to the territory of Tshilenge, the IGF delegation was confronted with a disappointing observation. The administrative building under construction was vandalized by the population, who reproached the use of baked bricks instead of cement bricks. Despite this incident, the IGF Deputy Head of Service remains optimistic about the end of the work and the positive impact on development.
The dilapidated state of road infrastructure:
The IGF delegation also noted the very advanced state of disrepair of National Road No. 1, at the entrance to Lomami province. This road, essential to ensure traffic and economic development, requires urgent rehabilitation. These degraded road infrastructures represent a real challenge for the development of the territories concerned.
The importance of work inspection:
To ensure the quality of the development works, the IGF has inspectors who are engineers equipped with instruments to check the dimensions of the reinforcement used and the strength of the concrete. This inspection is essential to ensure the correct use of materials and to avoid problems related to corruption and the mismanagement of public funds.
The challenges to overcome for the success of the program:
Despite the progress noted, the success of the Local Development Program still faces certain challenges. The possibility for contractors not to use the necessary quantity of materials represents a risk area for the public treasury. It is therefore essential to strengthen controls in order to assess the quantity of materials used and to avoid embezzlement.
Conclusion :
The evaluation of the evolution of the Local Development Program in the Democratic Republic of Congo by the General Inspectorate of Finance highlights both the progress and the challenges facing the program. Despite the obstacles encountered, it is essential to continue efforts to ensure the harmonious development of decentralized territories.. Good management of public funds, rigorous inspection of works and close collaboration between the various actors are necessary to guarantee the success of this ambitious program