Draft Finance Law 2024: the government’s priorities for the country’s development
The Prime Minister, Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde, presented this Friday, September 15, 2023, the draft Finance Law 2024 to the National Assembly. This budget is estimated at 40.463 billion Congolese francs, an increase of 24.7% compared to the previous year.
In a context marked by the opening of the September session, the government is highlighting its main priorities for the country’s development. The Defense sector, free education and health are the areas on which he primarily wishes to concentrate his efforts.
The question of Defense occupies a central place in the government’s concerns. Additional resources will be allocated to meet the expectations of the sector and respect the commitments made to the Defense reserve force.
Regarding education, the government wishes to continue the policy of free education which has already borne fruit. The program has benefited nearly 6 million students and therefore requires additional resources to maintain its effectiveness.
In terms of health, universal health coverage is a priority. The government has allocated sufficient resources to guarantee free maternity and post-partum follow-up, in order to improve the health conditions of women and newborns.
In addition to these priority areas, the government plans to continue ongoing reforms and the implementation of the Local Development Plan for the 145 territories. Agriculture, fishing and livestock will be supported in order to diversify the economy, and particular attention will be paid to infrastructure.
The scientific research sector will also benefit from increased funding, with 3% of the budget allocated to this priority. This will help promote economic diversification and support national production.
The submission of the 2024 Finance Bill marks a turning point in the last session of this mandate, under the presidency of Félix Tshisekedi. This budget reflects the government’s commitments to the development of the country and to meeting the expectations of the population.
In conclusion, the draft Finance Law 2024 focuses on strategic areas such as Defense, education and health. It demonstrates the government’s desire to pursue reforms and support the diversification of the economy to promote the country’s development.