### Reflection on the Adjustment of the SMIG in the Democratic Republic of Congo: A Complex Debate at the Heart of Social Issues
In a Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) where economic and social issues intersect unpredictably, the recent decision of the Prime Minister, Judith Suminwa Tuluka, to suspend the order to adjust the guaranteed interprofessional minimum wage (SMIG) to 14,500 Congolese francs (FC) raises much deeper questions. This episode highlights not only the challenges related to wage setting, but also the need for a more comprehensive and inclusive approach in the economic governance of the country.
#### Rental Context: The Value of 14,500 FC
The order in question provides for a SMIG of 14,500 FC, or approximately USD 5.16 per day. This sum, already considered the lowest on the African continent, raises questions about the real purchasing power of the Congolese, particularly in a country where nearly 60% of the population lives below the poverty line. By comparison, other African countries, such as Senegal or Ghana, have established significantly higher minimum wage scales, reflecting a more dynamic consideration of the costs of living and the basic needs of their citizens.
The debate around the revaluation of the SMIG is all the more pressing since inflation shows no signs of slowing down. World Bank data indicate that annual inflation exceeded 9% in 2023, highlighting an economic reality that is inexorably reducing household purchasing power. Ironically, while the population is waiting for an increase in the SMIG to better cope with this inflation, the executive finds itself navigating an administrative imbroglio that sends signals of confusion.
#### The Importance of Inclusive Dialogue
The Prime Minister’s instruction to submit a new decree on the SMIG by involving stakeholders, including the National Labor Council, marks a commendable attempt to open up to dialogue. This call for consultation demonstrates a certain level of awareness of the issues surrounding the wage issue. Previous initiatives, such as the dialogue organized by Minister Ephraim Akwakwa in October 2024, while important, appear to have failed to engage all the necessary actors—a failure that is partly at the root of the current protests.
A close look at the dynamics of the labor market in the DRC reveals a complex ecosystem, where employee unions and employer organizations need to collaborate more effectively. The results of a study conducted by the National Institute of Statistics (INS) in 2022 revealed that nearly 70% of workers are poorly or not organized, which limits their ability to influence wage policy. Therefore, it is crucial to engage these groups in constructive discussions to achieve outcomes that benefit all workers.
#### Towards a Sustainable Wage Bargaining Model
The wage-setting system in the DRC requires a radical transformation that involves the establishment of more transparent and regular evaluation mechanisms. This could include the creation of an independent wage commission, responsible for monitoring adjustments based on inflation, economic conditions, and most importantly, the basic needs of the population.
To this end, experiences in other developing countries can offer promising avenues. For example, the Living Wage initiative in relation to the cost of living, adopted in South Africa, could provide an inspiring model. This model ensures that the minimum wage is adjusted periodically, taking into account key economic indicators and popular consultations.
#### Conclusion: A Balance to be Found
The Prime Minister’s focus on the procedural flaw in the SMIG decree may seem like a simple technical issue, but it encapsulates much broader substantive issues. In urban and rural areas, the struggle for survival is felt in every family seeking access to decent health, education, and nutrition services. The need to create an environment where the voices of workers, employers, and economic experts meet is paramount to breaking this impasse.
As the DRC continues to face various economic challenges, it becomes essential that policymakers consider approaches that go beyond superficial adjustments. The suspension of the SMIG decree provides an opportunity to reassess priorities and truly craft a wage policy that meets the confused aspirations of a population thirsting for social justice and economic equity. Indeed, the future of work and salary in the DRC can only be built by relying on inclusiveness, transparency and participation.