**Reduction of the Cost of Living of Institutions: An Urgent Necessity for the DRC**
The political and economic context in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to raise major concerns. Through her recent statements, Judith Suminwa, an emblematic figure of the public debate, recalled the urgency of increased responsibility within state institutions. Her call to the General Inspectorate of Finance (IGF) for a rigorous reduction of the cost of living of institutions is not only relevant but is part of a global problem that concerns the sustainable development of the country, particularly in a crisis environment such as that of the East of the DRC.
### The Importance of Financial Control
During a strategic meeting held on February 5 with the Inspector General-Chief of Service, Jules Alingete, Judith Suminwa stressed the need for strengthened control of public finances. Indeed, this control should not only be a State directive, but an absolute priority to ensure an optimal allocation of resources. This approach is part of a logic of efficiency and transparency, a sine qua non condition for establishing citizens’ trust in their institutions. The IGF must therefore play a central role in supervising public spending in order to increase accountability and limit the excesses often characterized by mismanagement and corruption.
### A Difficult Economic Context
The economic situation in the DRC is marked by a scarcity of the Congolese Franc, exacerbated by speculative phenomena. Monetary instability further weakens the country’s economic situation, making efforts to reduce the standard of living of institutions even more crucial. In this context, the need to reform the financial management of institutions appears to be an essential strategy to stabilize the economic framework and face systemic challenges.
A recent study by the Congolese Institute of Statistics (ICS) revealed that nearly 30% of state revenues are often misdirected towards non-essential expenditures. This reveals the scale of the challenges facing the IGF in ensuring optimal financial management. By reducing the cost of living of institutions, the DRC could free up essential resources that could be redirected to key priorities such as security, health and education.
### Mining Development and Its Impact
The desire of the mining company DRC Gold Trading to increase its gold exports in 2025 highlights a crucial sector for the Congolese economy. However, this dynamic must go hand in hand with better resource management. The mining sector, often criticized for its limited contribution to local development, must be accompanied by transparent mechanisms for allocating mining revenues. The state could consider reforming fiscal policies and resource management strategies to ensure that the benefits of this industry truly benefit Congolese citizens.
### Financing and Awareness-Raising Initiatives
The financing in Maniema by the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) is an example of an economic initiative that needs to be talked about more. The Inclusive and Resilient Rural Development Support Program (PADRIR) must go beyond the simple provision of resources. Adequate awareness-raising among entrepreneurs in Maniema on the offers of the Entrepreneurship Guarantee Fund in Congo (FOGEC) is essential to maximize the benefits of this type of program. The ability of citizens to access adequate financing and create sustainable projects can contribute to inclusive development.
### Confrontation with the Reality of the Labor Market
Another worrying aspect is the situation of agents of the Directorate General of Revenue of Kasai-Central (DGRKAC) facing dismissals deemed abusive. This situation demonstrates the instability that reigns on the labor market in the DRC and the need for ethical management of human resources in public institutions. The challenge is both economic and social; the protection of workers and respect for their rights must become priorities to restore confidence in public institutions.
### Conclusion
In this climate of socio-economic tensions, it is imperative for the DRC to seriously consider the evolution of its institutions and their financial management. The proposal of a rigorous audit of public spending, increased control of finances and informed allocation of resources should make it possible to strengthen the government’s effectiveness in the face of such crucial issues as security and sustainable development. This approach is not only an opportunity to put an end to unscrupulous practices, but also to commit the DRC to the path of inclusive development that involves all sections of the population. By being accountable for their actions, public institutions could then regain the confidence necessary for sustainable economic growth marked by social justice.