The 145 Territories Development Program, launched by the Congolese government to improve living conditions in rural areas, is currently experiencing major difficulties in the Kalamba urban area, Kapanga territory, Lualaba province. Since its launch two years ago, the planned works, including the construction of health centers and schools, have been significantly delayed, to the point that some infrastructure is still at the foundation stage.
The inhabitants of Kalamba, who had welcomed this program with enthusiasm, are now expressing their concern about the lack of concrete progress on the ground. The administrator of the Kapanga territory himself is sounding the alarm, deploring the lack of progress on the work and highlighting the inaction of the companies responsible for carrying it out.
Among the projects planned in the region were the construction of eight schools, two health centers and an administrative office. Unfortunately, work has been at a standstill for two years, leaving the local population uncertain about the completion of this essential infrastructure. This delicate situation is legitimately raising serious concerns among residents, who see the prospect of a significant improvement in their living conditions fading away.
The Local Development Program for the 145 Territories, worth a total of $1.6 billion, aims to reduce inequalities between urban and rural areas by providing quality services to residents of the most remote territories. It also aims to lift 25 million Congolese out of poverty by strengthening basic infrastructure and promoting the socio-economic development of the most disadvantaged regions.
It is imperative that the competent authorities take concrete measures to quickly restart work in the Kalamba urban area and ensure the completion of the promised infrastructure. The accumulated delays only accentuate the difficulties faced by rural populations, deprived of the essential services necessary for their well-being and development. Urgent and effective action is needed to ensure the success of this ambitious programme and to meet the legitimate expectations of Congolese citizens.