Kindu, October 22, 2024 (Fatshimetrie). A major milestone has been reached in the development of Maniema province, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the Association of Petroleum Producers for the Development of Congo (APEDECO) and the provincial government. This protocol concerns the establishment of a conventional tax of 300Fcs for each liter of fuel sold, a measure intended to support local development projects, in particular the rehabilitation of road infrastructure.
The desire to reach this agreement was welcomed by Mr. Mugeni Amadi, President of APEDECO in Maniema, who stressed the importance of the compromise reached after in-depth negotiations. He stressed the importance of finding common ground, even at the cost of concessions, to reach an agreement beneficial for the development of the province. Emphasis was placed on the positive impact that this tax will have on Maniema and on the need to collectively support this agreement.
Governor Moise Musa Kabwangubi insisted on the effective implementation of this agreement, as well as the responsibility of the Federation of Congolese Enterprises (FEC) in the rigorous collection of conventional taxes and the transparent management of the funds generated. He stressed the importance of the strict application of the agreement to ensure its success.
During the signing ceremony, Mr. Claude Foreman Makonga Toboka Iki, President of the Maniema Provincial Assembly, called on all stakeholders to place the interest of the province above all other considerations. He recalled the importance of everyone’s contribution to the advancement and development of Maniema.
The signing of this historic agreement took place in the presence of representatives of the different religious denominations and Civil Society, highlighting the unity and collaboration between all actors involved in the development of the province.
This progress marks a significant step in the promotion of the economic and social development of Maniema, demonstrating the ability of local actors to work together for the well-being of the population and the improvement of living conditions in the region.