Title: Congo Airways: a national company in financial difficulty, an emergency for the government
Introduction :
Since September 11, 2023, the airline Congo Airways has been forced to cease operations due to a lack of funds for the maintenance of its fleet. With a financial need of 32 million dollars, this situation represents a real shame for the country. In this article, we will examine the consequences of the cessation of activities of Congo Airways on air transport in the Democratic Republic of Congo and emphasize the urgency for the government to find a solution in order to relaunch this national airline.
Air transport, an essential link in Congolese infrastructure:
In the DRC, air transport is the main means of connecting the country’s major cities. The cessation of Congo Airways’ activities therefore has a significant impact on the mobility of the Congolese population. Travelers find themselves forced to pass through other countries to get to another province, which represents a real obstacle to the economic and social development of the country.
A national company in financial difficulty:
The financial crisis of Congo Airways highlights the failing management of the company since its creation. Those responsible for this company were accused of having contributed to its destruction through their irresponsible actions. Today, Congo Airways is demanding $32 million for the maintenance of its planes, a colossal sum that the government must find quickly in order to allow the company to resume its activities.
The urgency of a solution to relaunch Congo Airways:
Faced with this situation, Jules Alingete, Inspector General and head of department of the General Inspectorate of Finance, calls on the Congolese government to take immediate measures to save Congo Airways. According to him, the airline is a symbol of pride for the country and it is imperative to provide it with the necessary financial means to revive it.
The Congolese Prime Minister, Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde, met with the Minister of Transport, Communication Routes and Opening Up, as well as the management team of Congo Airways to discuss the situation. The Head of Government is committed to doing everything possible to enable the company to resume its activities, in particular by providing the necessary funds in the run-up to the general elections scheduled for December 2023.
Conclusion :
Congo Airways’ financial crisis highlights the scale of the challenges facing national airlines in Africa. To ensure the economic and social development of the country, it is crucial to support these companies and provide them with the necessary means to operate in optimal conditions.. The Congolese government must act quickly to relaunch Congo Airways and guarantee the continuity of national air transport. An urgent solution is necessary to preserve the mobility of Congolese citizens and promote the development of the country.