The monthly expenditures of the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for the month of August 2023 reached a remarkable level of 2,101.5 billion Congolese Francs (CDF), thus exceeding the forecast amount set at 1,690.8 billion CDF. This equates to over US$1 billion at the average 2021 CDF budget rate per US dollar.
According to the Central Bank of Congo (BCC), current expenses represent the majority of these monthly expenses, amounting to 1,441.6 billion Congolese Francs. Among these, a significant portion is dedicated to remuneration expenditure for state agents and civil servants, which reaches 716.0 billion CDF. Subsidies (CDF 228.5 billion) and operating costs of institutions and ministries (CDF 429.1 billion) also constitute significant expenditure items.
Capital expenditure also saw a significant increase, amounting to 348.0 billion Congolese Francs against a programmed level of 241.3 billion Congolese Francs. This increase demonstrates the government’s commitment to investing in the development and improvement of the country’s infrastructure.
Regarding revenue, the mobilizing services managed to recover 1,504.8 billion Congolese Francs, i.e. an achievement rate of 113.5%. Tax revenues are estimated at 1,227.1 billion Congolese Francs, exceeding initial forecasts of 986.1 billion Congolese Francs for the month of August 2023. This reflects a better performance of financial authorities such as the General Management of Taxes (DGI) and the General Directorate of Customs and Excise (DGDA) in the collection of tax revenue.
However, despite this increase in spending and revenue, it is important to emphasize that the Congolese economy continues to face major challenges such as inflation and political instability. Additional measures must be taken to ensure effective management of public resources and promote sustainable economic growth.
In conclusion, the monthly expenditures of the Government of the DRC for the month of August 2023 exceeded forecasts, reflecting the efforts to develop and improve the country’s infrastructure. However, it is essential to continue working on revenue mobilization and transparent expenditure management in order to guarantee stable and beneficial economic growth for all Congolese citizens.