** Analysis of the opening of the Congo Savings Fund in Goma: Entering economic issues and social realities **
On April 10, 2025, a declaration by the Minister of Finance, Doudou Fwamba, resonated echoes through the Democratic Republic of Congo, and more particularly in the provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu. The opening of the branch of the Congo Savings Caisse (Cadeco) in Goma, operated by the M23-AFC group, was described as “scam”, an assertion which raises important questions on the economic and social landscape of this region plagued by multiple challenges for decades.
### 1. A complex regional context
North Kivu, and more broadly the east of the DRC, is characterized by chronic instability linked to persistent armed conflicts, ethnic issues and struggles for controlling natural resources. The M23 group, with its varied origins and motivations, embodies a reality in which state sovereignty is often undermined. In this context, the intervention of armed groups in the banking sector raises legitimate concerns concerning the financial security of citizens.
### 2. The reaction of the Minister of Finance
Minister Fwamba expressed concerns about the reliability of a banking institution under the aegis of an armed movement. His remarks, which evokes the memory of little glorious past practices, refers to historical periods where the manipulation of the economy by non -state groups has led to significant losses for citizens. The fear of a request for deposit without guarantee of withdrawal echoes traumatic experiences for many Congolese, who have already suffered from the instability of the banking system in the past.
### 3. To an encouraging digital transition
The Minister of Finance, in parallel, highlighted a need to adopt electronic financial means, signaling an interesting turning point in the way financial transactions could deploy in an environment where distrust is palpable. The encouragement to use these new means could contribute to greater inclusiveness and financial security, avoiding the challenges of physical liquidity manipulation.
### 4. Economic challenges and current reforms
The approach of Doudou Fwamba also underlines the urgent need for economic compensation. The declaration that the occupation by armed groups has led to a loss of 4.5 % of the budgetary resources of the State raises the question of the economic sustainability of the country. How can the DRC, already fragile, hope to establish a solid economic framework when armed actors continue to fuel instability?
The reforms announced, such as the generalization of tele-declaration or the introduction of the standardized invoice, show a desire to modernize the tax system and strengthen access to finances. Analysis of the performance of financial agencies, which have reached 109 % of forecasts, is an encouragement but also raises questions about the sustainability of this dynamic.
### 5. Calls for electrification and infrastructure
The Katende dam project, although long delayed, remains a fundamental issue for the electrification of the Center of the DRC and could play an essential role in economic development. Funding promises and prioritization of structuring projects reflect a government’s commitment to improve the living conditions of populations. However, the delay accumulated on this project is indicative of the difficulties that the Congolese state encounters in the implementation of its ambitions.
### 6. Conclusion: Towards a sustainable future
The opening of CADECO to Goma asks complex questions that require in -depth reflection. It is imperative to analyze not only immediate economic implications but also the long -term effects on the confidence of citizens towards financial institutions. In a context where the state must affirm its authority in the face of armed groups, collective vigilance is essential to prevent past situations from happening again.
The way to economic and social stability in the DRC seems to be strewn with pitfalls, but encouragement to financial innovation and infrastructure projects can open up new perspectives. The key could reside in better communication between authorities, citizens and economic actors in order to build a society where confidence and security constitute the foundations of a shared future.