Last Thursday, March 28, the Minister of Planning, Judith Suminwa Tuluka, chaired a significant meeting focusing on the local development program for the 145 territories in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The gathering provided an overview of the progress made in the initial phase of the program, aiming to construct over 2,000 essential structures, including schools, health centers, and administrative buildings, with a budget exceeding 500 million US dollars.
It is worth noting that nearly 78% of the planned buildings in the first phase are currently under construction, marking a positive advancement. However, certain projects have faced delays due to security challenges in specific regions, notably Kwamouth and eastern DRC. Despite these hurdles, the government maintains its commitment to executing these vital projects for local development.
Additionally, the Ministry of Planning announced the completion of feasibility studies for the construction of agricultural service roads, part of the program’s second phase. This phase encompasses the rehabilitation and maintenance of 38,000 km of roads and the creation of engineering structures, with funding amounting to around US$261 million, showcasing the government’s financial dedication to infrastructure enhancement.
Each implementing agency under the program has been tasked with specific projects, including constructing schools and health centers crucial for the local communities. These accomplishments play a pivotal role in enhancing access to education and healthcare in the respective regions, thereby contributing to the social and economic advancement of the nation.
In conclusion, despite the encountered challenges, the local development program for the 145 territories in the DRC is making progress, underscoring the government’s dedication to essential infrastructure development. Continuous monitoring of the project implementation is imperative to ensure their success and positive impact on the local populace.