The General Inspectorate of Finance (IGF) in Kinshasa recently inaugurated its new administrative building, named “Immeuble Etienne Tshisekedi Wa Mulumba”. This impressive new structure includes more than 150 personalized offices, 6 meeting rooms, an amphitheater that can accommodate more than 250 people, above-ground parking lots and various practical facilities.
The inauguration ceremony was honored by the presence of the President of the Republic, Félix Tshisekedi, and was an opportunity for the Chief Inspector of Service Jules Alingete to underline the commitment of the Head of State to the fight against corruption and fraud in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He also highlighted the importance of this fight as a prerequisite for the improvement of public governance, essential for the development and social progress of the country.
The IGF has significantly increased its number of inspectors, from 55 in 2020 to 225 currently, following a recruitment aimed at rejuvenating the body of inspectors. Organized into brigades, these inspectors play a crucial role in the mobilization of public revenue and carry out surveillance missions before and after spending.
Notable missions of the IGF include the dismantling of corruption networks, the control of funds allocated for the fight against Covid-19, as well as the supervision of Chinese contracts and the management of Primary, Secondary and Technical Education (EPST) funds.
Since his accession to the presidency in 2019, Félix Tshisekedi has paid particular attention to the IGF by providing it with the necessary means to carry out its investigations and by strengthening the powers of inspectors. Thus, the latter can now prohibit movements on public accounts, suspend public accountants and managers in the event of serious misconduct.
Ultimately, this new era for the IGF demonstrates the Congolese government’s commitment to transparency in public finances and the fight against corruption, essential elements for ensuring sustainable and equitable development in the DRC.