The economic challenges facing parts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo continue to cause problems for consumers. A recent report revealed that the prices of basic necessities have doubled in Luvua region, Manono territory located in Tanganyika province.
According to Luvua’s civil society spokesman, Abbé Gaspard Maloba wa Kabongo, the price of a bucket of maize has risen from 1,500 to 3,500 Congolese francs, while a piece of Sona soap is now sold to 3,000 Congolese francs instead of 1,500. This price increase is attributed to a breakdown of the ferry that allowed traders in the region to cross the Luvua River to reach Luvua-Kiyambi and Manono.
The suspension of the canoe crossing and the closure of sector offices by Luvua civil society have highlighted the impact of this breakdown on the daily activities of the population. Students struggled to get to school and some were unable to obtain necessary school supplies.
Father Gaspard Maloba wa Kabongo pointed out that the absence of the ferry has also delayed the campaign to distribute free mosquito nets in the region. This campaign, which should normally last 10 days, now lasts a month due to the difficulties of crossing.
Tanganyika Provincial Minister of Infrastructure, John Seya Kalunga, assured that funds have been mobilized and disbursed for the repair of the ferry, and that work should begin soon. However, he asked civil society to be patient.
This situation highlights the challenges faced by certain regions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo in terms of access to basic necessities. It is important for the authorities to take measures to guarantee a regular and affordable supply of these products, in order to improve the living conditions of the local populations.