*Fatshimetrie*: Round table of young entrepreneurs in the DRC
The entrepreneurial dynamism of young people in the Democratic Republic of Congo was highlighted during the first round table organized by the National Commission for Young Entrepreneurs of the FEC (CNJE), on May 3, 2024, in Kinshasa. This unique event, in person and virtually, brought together key players in the sector to discuss the major issues facing young Congolese entrepreneurs.
The main objective of this round table was to draw up a complete inventory of the situation of entrepreneurial youth through four major themes: skills and training, competitiveness and financing, the business climate and governance, as well as promoting local products.
The discussions were intense and constructive, with the active participation of representatives of public institutions, members of the FEC under 40 years old, as well as those responsible for structures supporting young entrepreneurs. Emphasis was placed on the need to strengthen the skills of young people, improve access to finance, create a favorable environment for business and promote local products.
Several speakers underlined the importance of taxation for the economic development of the country. Passy Mbayo, Chief of Staff of the Minister of Youth, reminded young entrepreneurs of the importance of respecting tax obligations to contribute to the prosperity of the DRC. According to him, the payment of taxes is essential to ensure the sustainability of businesses and promote the country’s economic growth.
Joseph Mbuyi Mukendi, Director General of the Special Fund for the Promotion of Entrepreneurship and Youth Employment, welcomed this initiative and proposed close collaboration with the CNJE to support and promote young Congolese entrepreneurs. He underlined the importance of promoting the know-how of young people and supporting them in their professional development.
Tysia Mukuna, president of the FEC’s national young entrepreneurs commission, stressed the need to continue the actions initiated during this first round table. She announced the establishment of focus working groups to explore the themes addressed and formulate concrete recommendations. These recommendations will serve as a roadmap for the CNJE and guide its actions in favor of youth entrepreneurship in the DRC.
In short, this round table of young entrepreneurs in the DRC was a crucial step in the promotion and development of youth entrepreneurship in the country. The exchanges and proposals made during this event open up promising prospects for the future of Congolese entrepreneurial youth.. Collaboration between public, private and associative actors is essential to create an environment conducive to the emergence of young talents and the country’s economic growth.