Bangboka International Airport in Kisangani, Tshopo province, is preparing to receive a high-profile visit from the President of the Republic, Félix Tshisekedi. This presidential visit has sparked an unprecedented mobilization in the city, with palpable excitement among residents. From the early hours of the morning, the Boyomais have been heading en masse to the airport, demonstrating the population’s enthusiasm for this presidential visit.
However, beyond the citizen mobilization, some are raising questions about the motivations of this visit and the impact on public finances. Lucha, a citizen movement active in Kisangani, is questioning the relevance of this mobilization, even describing the event as “abject and budget-consuming political drama.” The sums distributed to the participants, estimated at around 5,000 CFA francs per person, raise questions about the use of public funds during this presidential visit.
Furthermore, this visit highlights the development and infrastructure issues in Kisangani. The rehabilitation of the Lumumba stadium, which had been under construction for a long time, as well as the leveling work on the city’s main arteries, are evidence of the efforts made prior to the presidential visit. The Buta road, linking the Makiso and Tshopo communes, has finally regained its signs, giving the city a more welcoming face.
The inauguration of Bangboka International Airport represents a major milestone in the development of the region. After more than ten years of construction and rehabilitation, this airport promises to improve the airport infrastructure of the Tshopo province and promote economic exchanges with the rest of the country and beyond its borders.
In short, the presidential visit to Kisangani raises reflections on the management of public resources, the development of infrastructure and the impact of such visits on local populations. Beyond the media and political hype, it is essential to ensure that these events truly contribute to the progress and well-being of citizens.