**Fatshimetrie of Thursday, October 31, 2024 – Overview of the economic situation in Kinshasa**
The latest issue of Fatshimetrie highlights two hot topics that are dominating the news in the Congolese capital: price controls on basic necessities and measures taken to combat traffic jams.
In an effort to enforce recent government directives aimed at reducing the prices of essential products, the Deputy Prime Minister in charge of the National Economy, Daniel Mukoko Samba, is showing unwavering determination. An exploratory team from the Ministry of Economy recently inspected the Gambela and Masina markets in Kinshasa, under the supervision of Albert Kasongo, the Deputy Prime Minister’s Chief of Staff. This mission prefigures a more rigorous control that will be carried out by the ministry’s official inspectors in the coming weeks.
However, violations of the law are commonplace in Kinshasa’s markets. Importers do not hesitate to install cold rooms for the wholesale or retail distribution of food products, a practice that violates current regulations. The team of the Ministry of National Economy therefore plans to strengthen controls and apply sanctions against offenders.
The president of the Association of Distributors and Operators of Cold Rooms also denounces the dubious practices of certain foreign traders who benefit from unjustified exemptions. This underlines the urgency of increased surveillance to ensure the application of the law in the commercial sector.
At the same time, the fight against traffic jams remains a major challenge in Kinshasa. The city’s governor announced the continuation of measures aimed at reducing road congestion, in particular by setting up temporary one-way streets and targeted interventions during peak hours. Agents of the National Commission for Road Safety are mobilized to install adequate signage and ensure traffic flow.
However, these initiatives are not unanimous among taxi and taxi-bus drivers, who deplore the additional constraints imposed to pay their fares. Consultation with public transport stakeholders may be necessary to find more balanced solutions that are favorable to all parties.
In conclusion, the management of food prices and traffic problems in Kinshasa requires a balanced and concerted approach between the authorities, economic operators and users. The challenge is to guarantee access to essential products at reasonable prices while ensuring efficient and secure mobility in the Congolese capital.