** Food self -sufficiency in the Democratic Republic of Congo: a national plea worn by George Arthur Forrest **
On May 15, 2025, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) was the scene of an important event, with the baptism of the book “Africa can feed the world” by its author, George Arthur Forrest, who was appointed as “Manual of the Congolese farmer” by President Félix Tshisekedi. This initiative aims to engage the country in an aqueous debate on food self-sufficiency, a crucial issue for the socio-economic future of the nation.
### Context and issues
Food self -sufficiency is a concept that is becoming more and more important on the African continent, even though the world population continues to increase. In the DRC, with a dynamic population and vast natural resources, creativity and innovation are often mentioned as keys to transformation. However, despite an immeasurable agricultural potential, the DRC remains faced with major food security challenges. Factors such as conflicts, failing infrastructure, and the effects of climate change darken the prospects for sustained agricultural development.
George Arthur Forrest, Congolese entrepreneur and PhilanthropE, underlines this incongruity in his book. With 24 million hectares of arable land, the DRC should theoretically be able to produce enough food for its population and even for export. By saying that the DRC is both a “mining scandal” and an “agricultural scandal”, it points to the paradox of a nation rich in resources which struggles to provide for its food needs.
### The importance of the book in national discourse
The support of the Head of State to Forrest’s work could be interpreted as a strong signal towards revitalization of the agricultural sector. By integrating the principles advocated in this book in public policies, the State could promote an environment conducive to local agricultural initiatives and investments in this sector. The emphasis on the need for a proactive agricultural policy could not only cause economic benefits, but also a strengthening of food sovereignty.
However, one can wonder: what would be the real repercussions of this initiative? The logistical, technical and educational support of these new policies will be just as crucial as the recommendations of Forrest. Such a transformation requires a serious commitment from the government and stakeholders in the field, including farmers, NGOs, and research institutions.
### Collaboration opportunities
A key dimension of this debate could be the promotion of dialogue between the public sector and the private sector. Companies like the Forrest International group, which have a richness of experience and know-how, could play a crucial role in the development of agriculture in the DRC by providing resources and skills. This type of partnership, if it is well orchestrated, could lead to innovative solutions to the persistent difficulties of the sector.
In addition, education and awareness of the importance of sustainable agriculture must be at the heart of this approach. By making information on best agricultural practices accessible, younger generations may be more involved in the transformation of the Congolese agricultural economy.
### Reflections and perspectives
While Africa becomes aware of its potential to nourish the world, challenges remain enormous. The integration of the ideas of George Arthur Forrest in the national discourse on agriculture is a step in the right direction. However, the success of this project will depend on the long -term commitment of the authorities, economic actors and civil society.
Ultimately, the question that arises is whether the country will be able to set up a framework that really promotes food autonomy or if, despite promises, the DRC will continue to depend on imports. By referring to the work of Forrest, it is essential to remember that food self -sufficiency is not carried out by decree, but rather by collective efforts, a deep commitment and a shared vision for the future of the DRC.
In conclusion, the dynamics launched by President Tshisekedi by adopting this manual could be the catalyst for such a desired change. This remains to be monitored, both in the implementation of policies and in the impact on the field, with a view to a stronger DRC, more autonomous and capable of food itself.