Women traders play an essential role in the economic survival of Congolese populations. Whether in the markets, in front of their plots or as street vendors, they actively contribute to the local economy. Aware of this reality, the Congolese government has identified the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) sector as strategic for inclusive economic growth, regional development, job creation and poverty reduction.
With this in mind, some Congolese civil society organizations, such as the Framework for Consultation of Congolese Women (CAFCO) and the Association of Women Entrepreneurs of Congo (AFEECO), have benefited from the financial support of UN-Women to raise awareness among traders in various markets in Kinshasa, Kongo-Central, Haut Katanga and Nord-Kivu. The aim was to build their capacities and help them deal with the challenges they face.
These initiatives are part of the “Support Project for the Development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises” (PADMPME) which aims to support the growth of SMEs and create employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for young people and women in different provinces of the country. Indeed, the SME sector plays a crucial role in sustainable development, gender equality and environmental sustainability. It contributes to reducing economic and social inequalities by providing economic opportunities for women and young people.
During a press conference organized by the CAFCO and the AFEECO, the participants underlined the importance of this project which extends over two years. Women vendors in Congolese markets were able to benefit from training on advocacy techniques, the requirements of formal trade and the importance of maintaining a clean environment for their own health. Beyond the financial aspect, it was a question of strengthening their capacity to defend their interests with the authorities of the country.
However, despite these efforts, participants also expressed frustration about the difficulties encountered with the “one-stop shop”, which is supposed to issue the legal documents allowing traders to be in good standing with the laws of the country. They stressed the importance of obtaining business and national identification registers, as well as provincial licenses, in order to operate legally.
Beneficiaries of these initiatives expressed gratitude to partner organizations and expressed the need for continued support to continue learning and growing in their business activities.
In conclusion, raising awareness and building the capacity of Congolese women traders within the framework of the PADMPME project are important steps towards the promotion of economic and social equality.. By supporting these local entrepreneurs, the Congolese government contributes to the country’s economic growth and poverty reduction. It is essential to continue to support these initiatives and to overcome administrative obstacles in order to allow women traders to prosper and contribute more to the national economy