Removal of the “GO Pass” airport tax in the DRC: Where do the funds collected go?
The NGO Multisectoral Popularization and Awareness Program (PMVS) recently demanded the removal of the airport tax called “GO Pass” in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). According to Ludovic Kalengayi, coordinator of the NGO, this tax has changed nothing in the country’s airports since its creation in 2009. He describes it as an airport scam, claiming that it impoverishes the population and harms the image of the country.
Kalengayi also raises questions about the use of funds collected by the Régie des Voies Aéroniques (RVA), notably the debt of 256 billion Congolese francs that it allegedly owes to the General Directorate of Taxes (DGI), despite payments from the GO Pass. He questions the concrete actions carried out by the RVA to rehabilitate and build new airports, given that the expected investments are slow to materialize.
It is therefore legitimate to ask the question: what happened to the money collected through this airport tax, which amounts to 55 USD per passenger for international flights?
Efficiency and transparency in the use of these funds are essential elements to guarantee the development and improvement of airport infrastructure in the DRC. It is necessary to establish strict control mechanisms to avoid any mismanagement or misuse of these resources.
The abolition of the “GO Pass” airport tax could be a positive measure if it allows for better management of airport funds and promotes concrete investments in the sector. This would help improve the country’s image, facilitate the arrival of investors and further develop airport infrastructure in the DRC.
It is important that the competent authorities take into account these recommendations of the NGO PMVS and seriously assess the situation in order to put in place effective measures for the transparent use of airport funds. Transparency and accountability are key elements for sustainable development of the airport sector in the DRC.
In conclusion, the removal of the “GO Pass” airport tax in the DRC is a legitimate request which aims to improve the management of airport funds and promote the development of airport infrastructure in the country. It is essential that measures be taken to ensure the transparent and efficient use of these resources, in order to promote real development of the airport sector in the DRC.