Congolese women play a crucial role in contributing to the family budget in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a reality that is often overlooked but of paramount importance. Despite the economic and social challenges they face, these women demonstrate exceptional resilience and creativity in providing for their households.
In a country where the Family Code stipulates the obligation for each spouse to contribute to household expenses, statistics reveal a marked imbalance in terms of economic participation between men and women. Only 62% of Congolese women are part of the workforce, with only 6.4% of them having a salaried job, compared to 23.9% of men. This disparity underlines the need to recognize and value women’s contribution to the purchasing power of Congolese households.
Through poignant testimonies collected from women living in Kinshasa, it is clear that the latter deploy various strategies to financially support their families. Some engage in informal activities, others run small businesses, while some receive financial support from their families living abroad. These women embody resilience and determination in the face of difficult economic realities.
Marie, a mother of three, sells vegetables at the market to supplement her household income, emphasizing the importance of her efforts to provide for her family’s basic needs. Esther, a street vendor, shares the importance of her hard work to ensure her children’s education. As for Véronique, a home-based seamstress, she highlights the value of her craft work in the financial stability of her household.
Daily budget management is a real challenge for these women, who juggle current expenses, unforeseen events and future prospects, including their children’s education. In an unstable economic context, women housewives demonstrate remarkable organization and determination to ensure the well-being of their families.
Despite the obstacles encountered, such as access to credit or limited professional training, these women remain essential actors in family and community development. Their financial contribution not only improves the standard of living of households, but also strengthens the economic autonomy of Congolese families.
Thus, it is imperative to implement public policies aimed at promoting the economic empowerment of women in the DRC. Facilitated access to credit, strengthening vocational training programs, and greater social recognition of their domestic and entrepreneurial work are essential levers to promote gender equality and the country’s economic development.
By celebrating the essential role of Congolese women in contributing to the family budget, society recognizes their inestimable value and their determination to overcome obstacles with courage and determination. Their perseverance is an example of resilience and strength, highlighting the need to support and encourage women’s economic empowerment to build a more inclusive and prosperous future for all in the DRC.