Title: The Exhibition for the development of cities, corridors and special economic zones “Expo Béton”: Kolwezi-Lualaba, Eldorado of the Southern Corridor of the DRC-SADC
Introduction :
The 7th edition of the Exhibition for the development of cities, corridors and special economic zones “Expo Béton” was recently launched in Kolwezi, capital of the Lualaba province in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Under the theme “Kolwezi-Lualaba, Eldorado of the Southern Corridor of the DRC-SADC”, this edition highlights the challenges of the development corridor. Since its creation in 1996, the Special Development Initiatives Program (PIDS) aims to strengthen the attraction of investments in the southern corridor of the DRC, by promoting economic cooperation with neighboring countries.
The key role of the Southern Corridor:
The Democratic Republic of Congo, more precisely the province of Lualaba and the city of Kolwezi, plays a central role in the development of the Southern Corridor. Through economic agreements signed with neighboring countries such as Angola, Zambia, Tanzania, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and South Africa, the DRC seeks to create coordination to promote integrated development at the national and regional level. Urban planning, infrastructure, energy, housing, logistics, SMEs, trade, multimodal transport and industry are all key sectors which will benefit from this cooperation.
Objectives of the Kolwezi edition:
The 7th edition of the Cities Development Fair has two main objectives. First of all, it encourages developers, legislators and decision-makers of the Southern Corridor member countries to transform this part of the continent into a beneficial zone for all. This involves the establishment of a regional development corridor and a multimodal structure focused on multisectoral development. Then, the show aims to facilitate the reliability of the trade corridor between member countries, thus guaranteeing fluid and harmonious trade.
Participants and program:
The event brings together a wide range of participants, ranging from customary authorities to construction professionals, including military engineering corps, teachers and students from higher and university institutions, real estate developers and hardware store owners. The program includes high-level sessions with construction industry experts, open days, BtoB sessions and a sponsored dinner.
Conclusion :
The 7th edition of the Exhibition for the development of cities, corridors and special economic zones “Expo Béton” highlights the importance of the Southern Corridor of the DRC-SADC and its development potential. By promoting economic cooperation between member countries, this event aims to create new investment opportunities and strengthen trade ties in the region. The development of this regional corridor paves the way for a promising future for the Democratic Republic of Congo and its neighboring countries.