The Expo Béton RDC trade show has started its second phase in Matadi for the year 2024, under the ambitious theme of “Urban Revolution: Sustainable Solutions for the Western Corridor, Kinshasa and Kongo Central”. This highly anticipated event was inaugurated by the Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Judith Suminwa Tuluka, who expressed her vision for the future of the region.
The rapid demographic growth of the DRC, with a rate of around 3.5% and a population projected to exceed 150 million inhabitants by 2035, underlines the crucial importance of rethinking urbanization in the Western Corridor region. Indeed, with 47% of the population already living in urban areas and a trend towards increasing urbanization, it is imperative to find sustainable solutions to support this transformation.
The Prime Minister stressed the need to adopt environmentally friendly practices and promote innovation in the construction sector to ensure harmonious and sustainable urban development. This approach aims to prevent the negative consequences of unplanned urbanization, such as disorderly land occupations, socio-economic inequalities and environmental impacts.
In this regard, the collaboration between Expo Béton RDC and the Kongo Central Chamber of Commerce and Industry is of paramount importance. By promoting the exchange of ideas and the pooling of resources, these partnerships help to catalyze innovation and promote sustainable development in the region. The Governor of the Kongo Central Province, Grâce Nkuanga Masuangi Bilolo, welcomed this initiative and underlined the commitment of his region to support economic and environmental progress.
In conclusion, Expo Béton DRC represents a unique opportunity to rethink urbanization in the Western Corridor, with a focus on innovation, sustainable development and building a resilient urban future. The challenges are many, but with a clear vision, strengthened collaboration and shared commitment, it is possible to transform the DRC’s cities into safe, modern and sustainable spaces for future generations.