### Davos 2025: The Democratic Republic of Congo at the forefront of global challenges
As the 55th edition of the World Economic Forum in Davos approaches, the presence of President Félix Tshisekedi is already causing a lot of ink to flow. As the major topics of the time, such as artificial intelligence, climate change and inequalities, continue to emerge, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is positioning itself as a key player on the international scene. This forum, which will be held from January 20 to 24, 2025, is structured around the theme “Collaborating in the Age of Artificial Intelligence”; a theme that, in many ways, may seem far removed from Congolese realities. However, the DRC is not a mere spectator in this global arena, but rather an active participant with major projects aimed at responding to global challenges.
Félix Tshisekedi arrives in Davos with a clear mission: to showcase his country’s strengths, particularly in the fight against climate change and the preservation of biodiversity. According to recent analyses, the DRC is home to approximately 60% of Central Africa’s forest resources, a feature that should not go unnoticed in discussions on environmental sustainability. Congolese forests, often considered the lungs of the planet, are at the heart of concerns related to reforestation initiatives and the fight against deforestation. The President could thus use this platform to highlight his government’s efforts in sustainable resource management.
While this edition of Davos seems to be a crossroads of big business and technological revolutions, it is essential not to ignore the problems that affect developing countries such as the DRC. Indeed, the participants in the forum aim to identify concrete solutions to the challenges of poverty and inequality. For example, studies show that nearly 70% of the Congolese population lives on less than $1.90 per day, an alarming figure that deserves to be debated within this prestigious decision-making space. The issue of cooperation between the private and public sectors could intensify the debates, paving the way for initiatives that value local resources while combating inequalities.
If we focus on the delegation accompanying President Tshisekedi, composed of key sectoral ministers, this sends a strong signal to international participants: the DRC takes its role in global development seriously. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner and the other members of the delegation will have to demonstrate how Congolese institutions can work in concert with foreign investors to provide a sustainable solution to their country’s challenges.
In addition, the daily reality of the people of Kinshasa continues to be marked by structural problems that do not spare the capital, Kinshasa. The recent social movement related to transport fares is a reminder that, even in times of reform, domestic issues are crucial. The climate of dissatisfaction among transport users highlights the importance of reconciling economic growth and quality of life. Indeed, it would be interesting to make the link between the discussions at the Davos Forum and local realities. How could international decision-makers contribute to more inclusive policies in terms of urban mobility? Through this prism, the participation of the DRC takes on an additional dimension, that of the evaluation of public policies in light of the recommendations and good practices shared in Davos.
Thus, the World Economic Forum in Davos represents an essential international stage for the DRC, but also a challenge. The path towards a sustainable and inclusive future requires coherence, transparency and a strong political will. The actions that President Tshisekedi will take, drawing on his country’s immense resources, will be crucial to enhancing the DRC’s position on the global chessboard. Only then can the promise of true economic development be realized, both nationally and internationally.
In short, the Davos event seems to be a key moment for the DRC to stand out and redefine its role in global discussions. If the discourse refocuses on cooperation and inclusion, this meeting could well lead to tangible results for the country. The challenge remains immense, but Congolese vitality and commitment could make the difference, hoping that this voice rising from Kinshasa resonates in the hushed rooms of Davos.