The fall in the exchange rate of the Congolese franc against the US dollar in Goma, North Kivu province, is attracting the attention of economists and residents of the region. For two days, the exchange rate on the parallel market has been falling, settling around 2,300 Congolese francs for 1 dollar.
According to economists interviewed by Radio Okapi, this drop is an indicator that the Congolese currency is appreciating against the American dollar. However, some economic operators believe that the rate should fall further to reach levels observed in the past, such as 1,500 Congolese francs for 1 dollar.
However, this decline in the exchange rate is not uniform across all sectors. In supermarkets and communications companies, the rate remains stable at 2,600 Congolese francs for 1 dollar. In addition, the prices of basic necessities have not followed this downward trend.
The inhabitants of Goma express their wish to see this drop reflected in the prices of basic necessities. They also recommend stability of the exchange rate in all sectors, in order to avoid variations and disparities.
It should be noted that two weeks ago, the exchange rate was on average 2500 to 2600 Congolese francs per 1 US dollar on the parallel market.
This change in the exchange rate of the Congolese franc against the American dollar in Goma raises questions about its stability and its impact on the purchasing power of residents. It remains to be seen whether this drop will continue in the coming weeks and whether it will have an effect on the prices of basic necessities. The economic and monetary situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to evolve, and it is important to monitor these changes closely.