Improving electrical energy supply is a major issue in the industrialization process of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). However, the energy deficit remains a major obstacle to the development of the industrial sector.
Faced with this problem, the President of the Republic, Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi, gave clear instructions to the Ministers concerned in order to propose practical modalities for the granting of a preferential tariff for electrical energy in special economic zones ( SEZ).
The revival of the country’s industrialization, as planned in the DRC Industrialization Master Plan, requires substantial resources from the government to ensure its realization. Thus, President Tshisekedi recalled the importance of mobilizing these resources and urged the Ministers in charge of Budget and Finance to finalize the process of creating the Special Fund for financing SEZs.
Particular attention was also paid to the Kin Malebo Special Economic Zone. President Tshisekedi requested a report on the execution of the framework agreement relating to this zone, signed in September 2022. He also wishes to be kept informed of the progress of this zone.
Furthermore, the President of the Republic expects a thorough reflection from the Minister of State, Minister of Portfolio, on the participation of portfolio companies in SEZ projects. He thus wishes to encourage the involvement of these companies in the development of special economic zones.
These instructions follow President Tshisekedi’s recent visit to the Maluku Special Economic Zone, where he launched the production of tiles and earthenware by the company Saphire Ceramics DRC SAS. This first production in the Maluku industrial zone underlines the importance of creating favorable conditions for the development of industry in the DRC.
In conclusion, improving electrical energy supply is an essential challenge to take up to promote the industrialization of the Democratic Republic of Congo. President Tshisekedi’s instructions aim to put in place concrete measures to facilitate access to a preferential tariff for electrical energy in special economic zones, as well as to mobilize the resources necessary for the development of these zones. This is an important step in building a strong and dynamic industrial sector in the DRC.