**Strike movement at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Congo 2024: The challenges and perspectives**
The recent strike movement that took place at the end of November 2024 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Francophonie in the Democratic Republic of Congo highlighted a series of challenges faced by the agents and executives of this strategic portfolio of the country. The supervising minister, Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, spoke at a meeting with the ministry officials to discuss these problems and the measures that would be taken to resolve them.
It became clear that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was facing complex difficulties, including late payments, lack of essential equipment and pending projects. These problems have not only hampered the smooth functioning of the ministry but have also impacted the well-being of the agents and executives working there. Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner stressed the need to document these difficulties, understand their root causes and propose concrete solutions.
In the interest of transparency and problem-solving, a detailed report on the situation of the Ministry was submitted to Prime Minister Judith Suminwa. This report provided clear guidance and concrete commitments to improve the functioning of the institution and ensure better working conditions for employees.
Another point discussed at this meeting was the situation of Congolese diplomats on missions abroad. It was announced that changes would be made to the support system, moving from a quarterly payment to a monthly payment. This reform aims to ensure faster processing of payments and make the process more efficient and transparent.
At the same time, discussions were initiated with suppliers to resolve delays in the delivery of vehicles for diplomats. In addition, an agreement was signed with the People’s Republic of China for the construction of a new building for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2025.
Finally, Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner also announced measures to promote and recognize the merit of the Ministry’s agents. Three collective commissioning orders were signed for the promotion of deserving agents, pending their confirmation by the civil service.
This strike movement and the discussions that followed highlighted the challenges facing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the DRC, while underlining the commitment of the authorities to improve working conditions and promote merit within the institution. It remains to be hoped that these measures will strengthen the functioning of the ministry and provide better support to the agents and managers who work there.