The submission of the 2024 draft budget by Prime Minister Sama Lukonde marked an important step in the management of public finances in the Democratic Republic of Congo. With an estimated amount of more than US$16 billion, up nearly 25% from the previous year, this budget includes allocations for several key sectors.
The defense sector will see an increase in funding, notably with the creation of a defense reserve force. This measure aims to strengthen the capacities of the Congolese army and ensure the security of the country.
The government also pays special attention to education and health. Resources are allocated to the universal health program, in order to guarantee access to care for all Congolese. Additionally, free basic education remains a priority, with funds allocated to support this measure.
The government is also seeking to diversify the Congolese economy by investing in sectors such as agriculture, fishing, livestock and industry. Additional means will be deployed to stimulate these sectors and encourage the creation of new special economic zones.
As part of rural development, the government will continue its program aimed at rehabilitating agricultural service roads, in order to facilitate the transport of agricultural products and promote the economic development of rural areas.
The Prime Minister also underlined the importance of modernizing public administration and improving the salary conditions of Congolese civil servants, while ensuring control of the wage bill.
The submission of the draft budget within the constitutional deadlines demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring transparent and efficient management of public resources. This budget reflects the government’s priorities in terms of economic, social development and security, while meeting the needs of the Congolese population.
It is now essential that this budget be examined by the National Assembly and adopted as soon as possible, in order to allow rapid implementation of projects and programs which will contribute to improving the living conditions of all Congolese. The mobilization of all stakeholders concerned will be essential to ensure rigorous and transparent management of these resources and guarantee their optimal use for the development of the country.
In conclusion, the submission of the 2024 draft budget in the Democratic Republic of Congo marks a key step in the management of the country’s public finances. This budget reflects the government’s priorities for economic, social development and security, and provides allocations for key sectors such as defence, education, health, agriculture and industry.. It now remains to ensure effective implementation of this budget, ensuring transparent and rigorous management of resources for the benefit of all Congolese.