Fatshimetrie, June 21, 2024 (ACP).- The question of insufficient financial resources for the development of urban roads in Kinshasa is a major challenge which hinders the growth of the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This was emphasized by the director general of the Office of Roads and Drainage (OVD) during a scientific day organized at the Protestant University of Congo.
During this event focused on the theme “Road infrastructure and urban mobility”, Mr. Victor Tumba highlighted the importance of mobilizing substantial financial resources to deal with urban road problems. He insisted that without adequate financial mobilization, it is difficult to resolve the challenges related to road maintenance, drainage and flooding affecting the city of Kinshasa.
Mr. Tumba stressed that planning, both physical and financial, is essential to advance road infrastructure development. He also addressed the difficulties encountered in terms of financing, particularly with regard to the Road Maintenance Fund (Foner) which does not always have the necessary resources to ensure the maintenance of roads and infrastructure.
Speaking of the challenges linked to erosion in the 26 provinces of the DRC, the director general of the OVD estimated that an amount of 126 million US dollars would be necessary to effectively combat this problem on a national scale. He highlighted the fact that 15 provinces are threatened by erosion, with 150 erosion sites identified across the country.
To meet these challenges, the OVD must sometimes call on technical and financial partners such as the African Development Bank, the World Bank and Japanese Cooperation. These collaborations provide additional resources to support the Office’s efforts in the management and maintenance of road infrastructure in Kinshasa and throughout the country.
In conclusion, the question of financing road infrastructure remains a major challenge to ensure sustainable development and urban mobility in the Congolese capital. It is essential to find innovative and sustainable solutions to optimize the use of available resources and guarantee an efficient and secure road network for the inhabitants of Kinshasa.