Title: Strengthening provincial governance for harmonious development: Félix Tshisekedi’s speech
During the recent Conference of Governors in Kalemie, President Félix Tshisekedi highlighted the challenges hindering the development of provinces in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Among these, the lack of institutional cohesion between governors and provincial assemblies stands out as a major obstacle. Recurring tensions between these bodies weaken action on the ground and jeopardize provincial unity and stability.
Persistent insecurity also prevails, leading to a humanitarian crisis and institutional instability that impact the proper functioning of local administrations. Opaque resource management and inadequate allocation of investment budgets also contribute to slowing the growth of territories, thus compromising the economic and social development of the provinces.
Félix Tshisekedi pointed out disappointing management of resources intended for development projects, accentuating the investment deficit in infrastructure and local initiatives. These findings reflect the major challenges facing Congolese provinces, highlighting the urgent need to strengthen local governance to promote balanced and sustainable growth.
Under the ambitious theme of “Strengthening provincial governance to ensure community cohesion, a key factor in the success of the Local Development Project”, this annual forum offers governors the opportunity to exchange, share and propose concrete solutions to overcome obstacles to provincial development. By emphasizing transparency, accountability and good governance, the aim is to revitalize public action and promote an environment conducive to the development of the provinces.
Ultimately, the success of the development of the Congolese provinces will depend on the ability of local authorities to overcome these challenges, to establish constructive collaboration between the different authorities and to place the general interest at the heart of their actions. It is time to work together for a more prosperous and harmonious future for all the provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo.