Title: ONAPAC Board of Directors meeting highlights the challenges and issues of Congolese agriculture
Introduction :
The Maiko room of the Memling hotel recently hosted the second session of the meeting of the Board of Directors of the National Office of Agricultural Products of Congo (ONAPAC). Under the direction of Me. Muke Mukengeshayi, PCA of ONAPAC, this meeting provided an opportunity to take stock of the missions of this public establishment and the challenges it faces. In this article, we will return to the key points discussed during this meeting and highlight the challenges facing Congolese agriculture.
ONAPAC: a crucial role in supervising Congolese agriculture
Mr. Muke Mukengeshayi, in his speech to the media, recalled the specific role of ONAPAC in the field of agriculture. Contrary to what many think, ONAPAC does not deal with all agricultural products. It focuses on around twenty products for export, such as coffee, cocoa, rubber, cinchona, papaya, vanilla and medicinal plants. Its main role is to supervise planters, processing, storage and transits, thus ensuring the quality of products intended for export.
Financial challenges hamper the proper functioning of ONAPAC
Despite its crucial role, ONAPAC faces enormous financial difficulties. Me. Muke Mukengeshayi underlined that of the 15 million dollars planned in ONAPAC’s annual budget, only 3 million were mobilized. This situation hinders the smooth running of the company and has an impact on the salaries of employees who are not paid in full. It is therefore urgent to find solutions to mobilize the funds necessary for the proper functioning of ONAPAC.
Threats to ONAPAC and the call for action
The ONAPAC PCA also shared the threats that ONAPAC faces. Some members of the Congo Business Federation criticize ONAPAC’s service fee rate, believing that it is too high. This opposition endangers the very existence of ONAPAC, which is already struggling to mobilize enough funds to carry out its missions. Me. Muke Mukengeshayi requested the support of the Minister of Agriculture to counter these maneuvers and ensure the sustainability of ONAPAC.
Conclusion :
The ONAPAC Board of Directors meeting highlighted the challenges facing Congolese agriculture as well as ONAPAC’s challenges in the supervision and promotion of agricultural products intended for export. It is imperative to find solutions to meet the financial needs of ONAPAC and preserve its crucial role in the development of Congolese agriculture. The support of the Ministry of Agriculture is essential to overcome these challenges and ensure the sustainability of ONAPAC.