Fatshimetrie, September 17, 2024 – The crucial issue of the application of the agricultural law in the Democratic Republic of Congo was recently brought to the public’s attention by the National Peasant Confederation of Congo (Conapac). For more than a decade, Law No. 11/022 of December 24, 2011, which is supposed to regulate the fundamental principles of agriculture, has struggled to be effectively implemented. This worrying observation has raised legitimate concerns among peasant organizations that are struggling to meet the food needs of the population.
Kambale Malembe, in charge of advocacy at Conapac, stressed the urgency of securing agricultural producers by implementing the provisions of this law. He highlighted the fact that the lack of application of the agricultural law has had a negative impact on Congolese farmers, hampering their production capacity and compromising their development. To address this critical situation, Conapac committed to developing a national policy for sustainable agricultural development, aimed at strengthening the agricultural sector and promoting self-production and the export of foodstuffs.
The main objective of the agricultural law was to establish an inclusive vision to guarantee food security and stimulate the agricultural economy. However, major obstacles such as land conflicts, competition from imported products, high production costs, administrative red tape and insecurity in some regions of the country have hampered its implementation. To make the regulatory measures provided for in the agricultural law effective, Kambale Malembe stressed the need to establish a National Fund for Agricultural Development (Fonada) and to strengthen agricultural credit banking institutions.
The National Peasant Confederation of Congo has defined itself as a key player in advocacy aimed at promoting the interests of Congolese farmers and working for the adoption of laws favorable to cooperatives, associations and agricultural groups. Despite persistent challenges, Conapac remains committed to defending farmers’ rights and promoting sustainable agricultural development in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In conclusion, the application of the agricultural law in the DRC is a crucial issue for ensuring food security, strengthening the agricultural economy and promoting sustainable development of the agricultural sector. It is imperative for the competent authorities to take concrete measures to ensure the effective implementation of this law and to support farmers in their move towards more resilient and prosperous agriculture.