Title: Major reforms in the industry sector in the DRC: assessment and prospects
Introduction :
The Minister of Industry, Julien Paluku Kahongya, and his counterpart of Communication and Media, Patrick Muyaya Katembe, recently co-hosted a press briefing to take stock of the reforms undertaken in the Industry sector in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This meeting made it possible to take stock of the actions carried out to date and to present future prospects for the development of this crucial sector. In a country blessed with immense natural wealth, it is essential to put in place policies and initiatives to promote the industry and attract investment.
Development :
Julien Paluku’s introductory speech underlined the desire of the President of the Republic, Félix Tshisekedi, to advance the industrial sector in the DRC. The first stage of this process was the subdivision of the country into six industrial zones, namely Kinshasa, the former Katanga, the Kasaï space, the Kivu space, the ex-Oriental space and the Ecuador. This approach aims to promote the development of industrial activity in different regions of the country and to fully exploit local resources.
The Minister of Industry also underlined the importance of a clear industrial policy to guide the sector’s actions. An industrialization master plan was developed in 2021, with six main components. These include the establishment of road infrastructure to connect the country’s 26 provinces, the development of energy infrastructure to support industrialization, the construction of railways, the creation of special economic zones to develop local resources and attract investments, among other initiatives.
In addition, the minister highlighted the work carried out to strengthen the industrial sector structurally. Organizations such as the Industry Promotion Fund, the National Bureau of Industrial Studies and Planning and the Special Economic Zones Agency have been established to support the country’s industrial development. This approach aims to create an environment conducive to investment and promote economic growth across the industry.
Conclusion :
The reforms undertaken in the industry sector in the DRC demonstrate the government’s desire to promote the country’s economic development. By implementing a clear industrial policy and developing the necessary infrastructure, the DRC seeks to attract investment and fully exploit its natural resources. Efforts in this area are key to creating jobs, boosting economic growth and reducing dependence on commodity exports.. The future of the industry in the DRC looks promising, and it is important to closely monitor the developments and prospects offered by this booming sector.