Title: DRC Agribusiness Forum: Investing in agribusiness in the DRC for a new agricultural era
Introduction :
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is preparing to host a major event in the agribusiness sector. Under the leadership of the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Finance, in partnership with actors such as the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the “DRC Agribusiness Forum” will be held in Kinshasa on October 4 and 5, 2023. This event aims to promote investment in the agricultural sector in the DRC and present concrete investment opportunities in this area.
Immense agricultural potential:
Despite its enormous agricultural potential, the DRC struggles to achieve satisfactory agricultural yields. The country’s low agricultural yields are among the lowest in the world, which contrasts with its abundant raw material resources. Each year, the DRC imports nearly US$2 billion worth of food, highlighting the need to develop the transformation potential of the agricultural sector.
An environment conducive to investment:
As part of the DRC’s national development plan, the year 2023 has been declared “the year of agriculture”, marking a strong commitment to reform of the agricultural sector. Measures are being taken to create an environment conducive to the development of private investments and stimulate the country’s main agricultural value chains. The DRC Agribusiness Forum will play a key role in drawing the attention of the domestic and international private sector to these investment opportunities.
A major forum:
The event will benefit from a solemn opening by the President of the Republic Felix Tshisekedi Tshilombo. Various renowned experts and panelists will also take part in the forum, including the African Union Commissioner in charge of Rural Economy and Agriculture, Congolese government ministers and representatives of the African Development Bank and the International Finance Corporation.
Rich and varied themes:
The “DRC Agribusiness Forum” plans debates and panels around several crucial sub-themes such as international donor engagement, climate considerations for sustainable agriculture, operational challenges and opportunities to strengthen agricultural resilience. agro-industry, as well as the use of digital technologies in the agricultural sector.
Conclusion :
The DRC Agribusiness Forum represents a unique opportunity to catalyze investment in agribusiness in the Democratic Republic of Congo. By bringing together key sector players, experts and decision-makers, this event aims to boost the country’s agricultural sector, promote the development of private investments and fully exploit the agricultural potential of the DRC. The revenge of the soil on the subsoil is underway, thus opening a new agricultural era for the country.