The event last Saturday at Pavilion 10 of the Congo-Kinshasa International Fair sparked mixed reactions among participants and observers. While the objective of this fair was to highlight local entrepreneurs and promote economic exchanges, the presence of Ministers Mukoko Samba, Julien Paluku, Guy Loando and Raissa Malu divided opinion.
Some welcomed the ministers’ visit, seeing it as a recognition of the importance of entrepreneurship in the country’s economic development. Others, on the other hand, criticized their condescending attitude and their lack of commitment to the real actors of this fair: the entrepreneurs.
Indeed, instead of taking the time to interact with the exhibitors and discover the innovations and projects presented, the ministers preferred to focus on the stands of their own ministries. This self-centered approach gave the impression that they were more interested in their own image than in the real issue of this fair.
The brief visit to the stand of the foreign company Milvest also raised questions. While the government advocates the promotion of local companies, this choice was seen as a contradictory signal. It is essential that our ministers actively support local initiatives and encourage the innovation and creativity of Congolese entrepreneurs.
Furthermore, the attitude of the ministers towards the technological advances presented at the fair was also criticized. By neglecting the stand dedicated to artificial intelligence, they missed an opportunity to familiarize themselves with technologies likely to transform the Congolese economy.
It is time for our leaders to become aware of their crucial role in promoting the private sector and entrepreneurship. A fair is not just a social event, it is above all a space for meetings, exchanges and innovations. By favoring the spectacle to the detriment of dialogue with economic actors, our ministers are missing the very essence of this event.
It is necessary that they fully engage alongside entrepreneurs, listen to them, support them and accompany them in their projects. It is by promoting genuine dialogue and fruitful collaboration that we can truly boost the Congolese economy and stimulate innovation.
In conclusion, the Congo-Kinshasa international fair highlighted the challenges faced by local entrepreneurs and underlined the importance of genuine political commitment to the private sector. Let us hope that this experience will serve as a lesson to our ministers and encourage them to change their approach to effectively support the country’s economic development.