### Kinshasa: Towards a Financial Governance Revolution?
On January 10, 2025, Kinshasa was the scene of a major event that could potentially transform the way the city manages its finances. A meeting between the General Inspectorate of Finance (IGF) and the provincial executive laid the foundations for an ambitious reform process in financial governance. But beyond this meeting, what is the real impact of this initiative on the management of public resources in Kinshasa?
#### Transparency as a Driver of Change
At first glance, this engaging approach seems focused on improving the traceability of revenues and the management of expenditures, two crucial elements for the financial health of any public administration. However, by diving deeper into the subject, it is interesting to question the very notion of transparency in financial governance. Good public financial management does not only rely on improved administrative procedures but also on the political will to fight corruption.
Historically, several African cities have implemented similar reforms, with varying success. For example, Rwanda, which has managed to establish more rigorous economic governance, has also integrated digital technologies to monitor financial flows. On the other hand, other cities, such as Kinshasa, seem to be continually held back by structural inadequacies and neglect of transparency standards. A reform without political will could therefore quickly fall into oblivion.
#### Computerization: A Necessary Revolution?
The promise of computerization of the revenue chain mentioned at this meeting also deserves to be closely scrutinized. The introduction of digital systems in revenue management can undoubtedly contribute to better traceability. However, the implementation of such systems requires a substantial initial investment, both in terms of equipment and staff training. Recent examples of countries like Kenya, where digital measures have been introduced for tax collection, show that it is possible to triple tax revenues in a few years. The adoption of appropriate technologies could therefore be the lever needed to propel Kinshasa towards more efficient financial management.
#### A Commitment to Sustainable Development
Governor Daniel Bumba has expressed his commitment to support this reform, but it will be essential that he translates this commitment into concrete results in order to restore the confidence of citizens. The review of previous contracts mentioned by Israël Mutala must be done within a framework of permanent dialogue to reassure the population. Indeed, the legitimacy of a reform project does not only come from its intentions but also from the way in which these intentions are perceived by citizens.
It is necessary to integrate an awareness-raising policy that explains the long-term benefits of these reforms to the people of Kinshasa. At the same time, targeted communication campaigns could strengthen popular support for this project. Ultimately, the success of this reform could have repercussions on several areas, particularly on infrastructure, education or health, depending on optimized resource management.
#### Social Issues at the Heart of Financial Reforms
Questioning Kinshasa’s financial management cannot ignore the social issues that arise from it. In a country where 70% of the population lives below the poverty line, the impact of poor financial governance is felt in the daily lives of millions of people in Kinshasa. Improving public finance management must therefore involve highlighting social concerns. It is imperative to explain how effective governance will alleviate the suffering of the most vulnerable.
Finally, the establishment of a commission to support the IGF initiatives is a step in the right direction, but it will be necessary to ensure that this commission operates with complete independence and transparency, under active citizen vigilance.
#### Conclusion: Time for Action
It is undeniable that Kinshasa faces colossal financial challenges. However, the current initiative could mark a turning point if and only if it is coupled with sincere political will, a robust legislative framework and effective communication relayed to citizens. At the dawn of this transformation, reflection must also focus on the paths to sustainable development, integrating economic, social and environmental dimensions. In this context, financial governance must not be seen as simple administrative rigor, but as an essential cement to build a better future for Kinshasa and its inhabitants.
In short, what could be considered a simple meeting between technicians could evolve into real in-depth discussions on the future of one of the largest cities in Africa. If Kinshasa succeeds in meeting this challenge, it could become an example to follow for other metropolises on the continent facing the same economic dilemmas.