Title: Rehabilitation of evacuation routes for agricultural products in the DRC: a priority for ensuring rural development
Introduction :
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faces many challenges in terms of agricultural infrastructure. The poor state of the evacuation routes for agricultural products limits local production and the supply of towns. However, the President of the Republic, Félix Tshisekedi, has expressed his concern over this situation and has put in place measures aimed at rehabilitating and improving this infrastructure.
Strengthening agricultural infrastructure:
During the Council of Ministers meeting, President Tshisekedi stressed that the rehabilitation of railways, agricultural feeder roads and waterways was essential to boost agricultural production and improve the living conditions of rural populations. As part of the 2021-2023 Action Program, the government has planned significant investments in these areas.
The need to strengthen the Office des Voies de Service Agricole (OVDA):
The President also stressed the importance of strengthening the operational capacities of the OVDA and its involvement in the execution of rehabilitation programs. The Office des Voies de Desserte Agricole plays a key role in the development and maintenance of agricultural roads, thus helping to facilitate the transport of agricultural products to markets.
The creation of the National Fund for the Maintenance of Rivers and Railways (FONEFF):
To ensure adequate funding for these rehabilitation works, the Government has taken the initiative of creating the National Fund for the Maintenance of Waterways and Railways. This fund aims to mobilize autonomous and sustainable financial resources for the development and maintenance of the country’s waterways and railways. Collaboration between the various actors, such as the Federation of Congolese Enterprises (FEC) and transport organizations, is essential to make this fund operational as soon as possible.
Conclusion :
The rehabilitation of agricultural product evacuation routes in the DRC is a priority to ensure rural development and the improvement of the living conditions of the populations. President Tshisekedi and the Congolese government have taken concrete measures to strengthen agricultural infrastructure, by rehabilitating railways, agricultural feeder roads and by creating the National Fund for the Maintenance of Waterways and Railways. Thanks to these initiatives, it is hoped that local agricultural production can be increased and that the supply of markets will be facilitated, thus contributing to the economic development of the country