**The President of the Republic, Felix Tshisekedi Tshilombo, recently addressed Congress to provide an update on the current state of the nation. His communication focused mainly on the measures taken by the government to combat the high cost of living and improve the purchasing power of citizens.**
**During his speech at the People’s Palace, Felix Tshisekedi expressed his satisfaction with the measures put in place, including the reduction in the prices of fuel and essential foodstuffs. He highlighted a significant drop in prices at the pump, thus allowing a reduction in the cost of living for the population. The reduction in the prices of gasoline and diesel was hailed as a major step forward for the purchasing power of Congolese households.**
**The President also spoke of the efforts made to make certain food products more affordable. By suspending the Value Added Tax (VAT) and reducing the rates of certain duties, taxes and fees on basic necessities such as fish, milk, sugar, meat, chicken legs and rice, the government has sought to provide economic relief to citizens.**
**The agreements reached between the government and importers for the reduction of food prices have been hailed as a positive initiative. The collaboration between the country’s main importers and the Federation of Congolese Enterprises (FEC) has facilitated substantial price reductions for the direct benefit of consumers.**
**In conclusion, the measures taken by the government to combat the high cost of living and improve the purchasing power of citizens are an important step in the right direction. However, it will be crucial to ensure the effective implementation of these measures and their real impact on the daily lives of the Congolese. The government’s commitment to ensuring more accessible prices for basic necessities is a positive signal for the country’s economic future.**