**Conflict-Sensitive Investment Guide for the Great Lakes Region**
In a context marked by persistent conflicts, key economic actors are coming together to discuss the importance of investing in a guide specifically designed for conflict-affected areas. This initiative was launched during a meeting organized by the Fédération des d’entreprises du Congo (FEC) in Goma, North Kivu.
The objective of this conflict-sensitive investment guide is to encourage economic operators to continue their activities in an environment weakened by armed conflict. It is about providing support to local entrepreneurs, particularly in the agri-food sector, while promoting the economic development of the Great Lakes region, despite security challenges.
During the awareness-raising session, which brought together entrepreneurs, government representatives, business facilitators and local economic operators, the importance of maintaining economic activities in times of conflict was highlighted. Sylvie Mwengesyali, a small agribusiness entrepreneur, spoke of the need to continue business activities even in a conflict context: “Business must not stop, even in times of conflict. Food needs persist, and it is essential that entrepreneurs continue to provide essential products to the population, despite the obstacles.”
This investment guide, intended for economic operators in the DRC, Burundi and Rwanda, is intended to be a valuable tool to promote the resilience of economic actors in the region. By encouraging the commitment of entrepreneurs to economic development, even in areas impacted by conflict, it contributes to promoting stability and prosperity in the Great Lakes.
Ultimately, this initiative underlines the importance of supporting local economic actors in a complex environment. It highlights the need to promote the continuation of economic activities despite security challenges, in order to contribute to the sustainable development of the Great Lakes region.