** Modernization of the MBANZA-LEMBA market: a call for collective reflection **
Kinshasa, May 28, 2025 (ACP) – The Mbanza -Lemba market, located in the commune of Lemba, is a crucial turning point. Vasco Mutshiba, the coordinator of this vital place for many residents of the Congolese capital, recently launched a call for the modernization of this market. This request, shared by many local actors, raises essential questions about the challenges faced by the informal sector in an urban environment, as well as on the necessary intervention of the authorities to remedy it.
### An expanding market
Over the years, the Mbanza-Lemba market has experienced a significant transformation. Initially designed as a small student market, due to its proximity to the University of Kinshasa, it has now become a dynamic trading space, attracting a growing flow of sellers and buyers. This development, although enthusiastic, has resulted in significant logistical challenges. Mutshiba reports an insufficient number of displays and pavilions, which limits the possibility for sellers to exhibit their goods under adequate conditions. De facto, this also affects the purchasing experience of consumers, who must sometimes make his way among products spread out on the ground.
### Public health and accessibility
The consequences of such a situation are not limited to the commercial aspect. Public health is also at stake. The difficulty of access to the flows of goods, especially during the rainy season, exacerbates hygiene problems. Wastewater from university and other public infrastructure mix with food, increasing health risks for the population. This therefore raises the question of the management of urban infrastructure which, to be effective, must be in line with the realities on the ground.
### a necessary dialogue with the authorities
The appeal launched by Mr. Mutshiba goes beyond a simple material improvement. He calls for a constructive dialogue between market players and urban authorities. The importance of listening to the concerns of merchants and consumers cannot be underestimated. A collaborative approach could lead to innovative solutions, promoting both local economic development and the well-being of users.
Beyond Mbanza-Lemba, other Kinshasa markets, such as those from Alivia to Petro-Congo and Matadi-Kibala in Mont-Ngafula, also need attention. It would be wise to consider a coherent and coordinated modernization program for these different spaces, incorporating suitable infrastructure and training for the actors concerned.
### to an integrated urban vision
The modernization of the Mbanza-Lemba market can be perceived as a microcosm of the wider challenges encountered by African cities today. How can the authorities meet the needs of a constantly increasing population while improving the living conditions of its inhabitants? This dilemma requires an overall vision which takes into account not only economic development, but also sustainability, hygiene and safety of citizens.
### Conclusion: an opportunity to seize
The call for the modernization of the MBANZA-LEMBA market is an opportunity for authorities and citizens to work together to build a healthier and more efficient urban environment. The question is not simply to modernize a market, but to rethink the way in which public spaces can be managed to better serve their users. By initiating an open and constructive dialogue, based on local expertise and integrating public health issues, it is possible to create a market model which not only meets economic needs, but also to the expectations of a population concerned with its health and well-being.
The future of the MBANZA-LEMBA market could thus redraw, allowing Kinshasa to project themselves towards modern and inclusive urbanity.