In the heart of Africa, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the debate on access to social security for informal workers is gaining momentum. In a country where the informal economy plays a crucial role in the daily lives of many citizens, the issue of social protection is becoming increasingly urgent. Informal economy actors such as artisanal miners, motorcyclists, drivers, small traders, mechanics and hairdressers, who constitute a significant part of the working population, are today excluded from the social security system provided for by law.
In this context, the INSPIR RDC Network, supported by the Belgian Development Agency (ENABEL), is conducting an awareness campaign in three key cities in the country: Kinshasa, Kolwezi and Lubumbashi. The objective of this initiative is to inform and educate informal workers about their social security rights, by highlighting the provision of the law relating to the affiliation of voluntary insured persons. This provision, although provided for by law, has not yet been fully implemented due to the lack of a ministerial decree defining the modalities for its implementation.
The experts of the INSPIR RDC Network have started discussions with the National Social Security Fund (CNSS) to better understand this provision and promote its effective implementation. At the same time, a signature collection campaign is underway to support a memo asking the competent authorities to accelerate the process of implementing this essential measure.
The recent discussions organized by the INSPIR RDC Network allowed informal workers to express themselves and share their concerns regarding social protection. Mr. Elie Ngindu, in charge of activities, and Mr. Jean Trésor Nzali, in charge of studies and planning, led these discussions with commitment, under the attentive moderation of Marcel Ngombo Mbala.
This approach demonstrates the commitment of the INSPIR RDC Network to defend the fundamental right to social protection for all workers, regardless of their status or sector of activity. By raising awareness among informal economy actors and mobilizing them around this cause, the INSPIR RDC Network works towards a more just and inclusive society, where everyone can benefit from adequate social coverage.
This initiative highlights the importance of solidarity and cooperation between the different actors in Congolese society to ensure equitable access to social security. By allowing informal workers to make their voices heard and actively participate in the decision-making process, the INSPIR RDC Network contributes to strengthening democracy and promoting respect for social rights for all.
In short, this awareness campaign led by the INSPIR RDC Network is of capital importance for the future of social protection in the Democratic Republic of Congo. By promoting the inclusion of informal workers in the social security system, it paves the way for a more equitable, sustainable and united society, where each individual can live with dignity and security.