The local development project of the 145 territories in the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to make headlines, with the recent announcement of an increase in its budget. The Ministry of Planning recently announced that the initial budget of USD 1.66 billion has been revised upwards to reach USD 2.138 billion, a significant increase of 28.79%.
This announcement has sparked diverse reactions among the Congolese population, who see this project as an opportunity for development and improvement of living conditions in rural areas of the country. Guylain Nyembo, Deputy Prime Minister, explained that this budget increase was necessary due to changes in the nature of the works and the constraints encountered during the implementation of the project.
The first part of the project, financed by the IMF’s Special Drawing Rights, also saw its initial budget increase, from USD 511 million to USD 623 million after the calls for tenders. These funds are intended for the construction and equipment of 1,198 schools, 788 health centers and 145 administrative buildings, as well as for carrying out studies for the rehabilitation of 40,479 kilometers of rural roads.
Progress made so far is encouraging, with an estimated completion rate of 44% by the end of October 2024. More than 500 schools and 270 health centers have already been completed, allowing rural residents to have better access to education and health care.
This project is of capital importance for improving infrastructure and socio-economic services in remote regions of the DRC. It contributes to the achievement of the country’s sustainable development goals and encourages the mobilization of additional resources to ensure the continuation and effectiveness of the program.
The Congolese authorities welcome this budget increase, which should make it possible to accelerate the remaining work and significantly improve the living conditions of rural populations. The commitment to local development is undeniable, and there is great hope that these joint efforts will contribute to sustainably transforming the most disadvantaged regions of the DRC.
Through the Local Development Project of the 145 Territories, a real surge of solidarity and concrete action in favor of the progress and well-being of the Congolese populations is emerging. Expectations are high, but the results already obtained demonstrate a strong commitment and an unwavering will to move communities towards a better future.