** Mbuji-Mayi: a twinning for development? **
On June 17, 2025, Mbuji-Mayi, chief town of Kasai Oriental, was the scene of a significant announcement which could influence the socio-economic development of the region. During a working session, Dr Augustin Kayemba Mulemena, an interim governor of Kasai Oriental, presented the twinning agreement between his province and the province of Lualaba, which is located in the south-east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This initiative, brought before the population of Mbuji-Mayi, arouses a certain interest in regional cooperation and development.
### A strategic contextualization
This twinning appears to be an answer, as long as the region faces significant challenges. The DRC, with its vast natural resources, struggles to exploit its economic potential. The provinces of Kasai Oriental and Lualaba, far from being distant from each other geographically, also share similar problems such as the need for access to appropriate infrastructure and local capacity building. The speeches around twinning evoke a synergy of development which could help to solve these issues.
### Les Pleidoyers for Energy Development
One of the main axes highlighted by Dr Kayemba concerns the need for improved energy access. The idea of building a high -capacity hydroelectric dam could represent a major advance for the industrialization of the province of Oriental Kasai. The region, rich in resources, suffers from the insufficient energy infrastructure which limits the creation of jobs and the development of local businesses. This advocacy is therefore not only legitimate, but is also part of a broader trend observed in several Sahelian countries where energy is a key catalyst for economic development.
### The question of health and human resources
In parallel, the governor addressed the essential question of the commitment of health professionals trained in the province. It is often observed that despite the training of new graduates, the lack of appropriate assignment generates inequalities in access to care. The idea of integrating these doctors and midwives into the Kasai Oriental health system could have positive consequences on universal health coverage and free maternity, crucial issues for maternal and infant mortality in the country. However, this initiative also raises questions: how to ensure that these professionals are properly supported in their work and that their integration does not come up against administrative or logistical obstacles?
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Despite the promises mentioned by this twinning, some questions persist. The effective implementation of agreements still at the discussion stage requires rigorous monitoring. What mechanisms will be established to guarantee the proper management of resources allocated to these projects? In addition, how will the voices of local populations be integrated into the decision-making process, in order to ensure that twinning does not turn into a simple formality without tangible impact?
Also, it is essential to ensure that projects of this scale are not limited to a transfer of economic resources, but also engage a real social dialogue, taking into account the aspirations and needs of the communities concerned.
### Conclusion
The twinning between Oriental Kasai and Lualaba represents a pivotal opportunity for the two provinces, both in terms of economic development and capacity building in terms of health. However, its success will depend on the implementation of clear strategies and the involvement of the various stakeholders. In a country where challenges are numerous, the Union and the collaboration between provinces could be the key to opening new horizons. This reminds us of the importance of strengthening regional solidarity in a context where development remains a fundamental issue for the DRC. Lightening these cogs is giving meaning to the future.