The “Kananga-Mbuji Mayi” road: a project under fire from critics
The construction of the “Kananga-Mbuji Mayi” road in the Democratic Republic of Congo is causing heated controversy. While the General Inspectorate of Finance (IGF) requests explanations concerning an amount of more than 24 million dollars allocated to the Egyptian group SAMCRETE Engineering for this project, the latter completely denies the accusations and promises to take the necessary measures to restore its tarnished image.
The article “Dilapidated roads, kickbacks, influence peddling, abuse of power, etc.: F. Tshisekedi’s electoral campaign in danger in Kananga because of selfish interests” relays the concerns of the inhabitants of Mbuji-Mayi and Kananga regarding in the advanced state of degradation of National Road number 1 (RN1) in the Kasai Central province. The Egyptian company SAMCRETE was committed to building a 188 km paved road linking Kananga to Mbuji-Mayi, with an expected lifespan of 50 years. The cost of the contract was estimated at $302 million, and a first deposit of $27 million had been agreed for the start of work.
However, the work is currently blocked due to the ban on SOFIBANQUE from paying the deposit of 27 million dollars. This ban was issued by the General Inspectorate of Finance (IGF). This situation sparked controversy and a standoff between the Egyptian group and the Congolese authorities, with accusations of embezzlement and lack of transparency.
The number one company SAMCRETE Engineering recently reacted to the IGF’s accusations by firmly rejecting any responsibility. He claims that the IGF did not obtain appropriate information on the case and describes its conclusions as hasty and populist. He also announces his intention to contact the competent authorities to obtain compensation for the damage suffered by his reputation.
This case raises questions about the management of infrastructure projects in the Democratic Republic of Congo and highlights the challenges encountered in the area of transparency and the fight against corruption. It is essential to ensure that funds allocated for infrastructure projects are used efficiently and transparently to meet the needs of local populations and promote the economic development of the country.
The “Kananga-Mbuji Mayi” road file therefore remains open, with major challenges for the Egyptian group SAMCRETE Engineering and for the Congolese authorities. It is essential to conduct a thorough investigation in order to shed light on this matter and take the necessary measures to ensure the construction of this essential road for the development of the country.