** Kinshasa: economic stabilization and war challenges **
While the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is in the grip of internal tensions and armed conflicts, the question of economic stability occupies a central place in government discourse. During a recent briefing, the Vice-Prime Minister in charge of the National Economy, Daniel Mukoko, highlighted the efforts of the Central Bank to maintain the Congolese franc. According to him, despite the complexity of the situation, these efforts make it possible to ensure a certain stability in a macroeconomic framework that many already consider more favorable compared to the previous period.
** An effort to support public finances **
The ministerial cabinet underlines that the financing of the war is a heavyweight for public finances, resulting in expenses which sometimes are not covered by monthly revenues. Although it may seem to be worrying, Mr. Mukoko insists that this funding takes place in a “healthy” way, without generating significant inflation or instability on the exchange market. Such a guarantee, although reassuring, deserves to be examined closely, as the consequences of poor economic management can be disastrous for the most vulnerable populations.
** Confidence in macroeconomic institutions and stability **
Daniel Mukoko also mentioned a renewed confidence in business circles towards the public treasury, as well as the efforts made to stabilize the price of certain basic food products. This observation raises a crucial question: does this confidence are based on solid and lasting bases, or is it a temporary perception, due to the current situation? Economic stability in a context of war is never acquired, and dialogue between the government and the population remains a necessity not to create a fracture feeling in the long term.
** The government’s agricultural bet **
The Congolese government aims to significantly reduce the price of five current consumer products within four to five years: corn, cassava, soybeans, palm oil and rice. These objectives are accompanied by the launch of an ambitious agricultural program, notably aimed at establishing transformation infrastructure to keep and stabilize the market for these products. However, these initiatives must be examined in terms of their feasibility in the field. The success of these projects will certainly depend on their ability to mobilize funds, generate jobs and support local farmers.
** Oil and market challenges **
Regarding petroleum products, the optimism displayed by the Deputy Prime Minister, which highlights a drop in prices of around 30 %, must also be interpreted with caution. Although oil companies seem to have adequate cash, the question of dependence on the world oil market remains central. In addition, an explosion in consumption, although apparently positive in the short term, brings questions about the sustainability of this long -term growth, especially in terms of logistics and environmental infrastructure.
** Conclusion: towards a collective reflection **
The economic situation of the DRC, marked by war and uncertainty, places the government in the face of many challenges. The attempt to stabilize the Congolese franc and maintain confidence in the treasure is crucial, but requires higher commitment to meet the legitimate expectations of Congolese in matters of purchasing power and food security.
It is to be hoped that these efforts will be accompanied by an open and inclusive dialogue, both with economic actors and with citizens. The road to resilient and prosperous economy is sown with pitfalls, but each initiative, each consultation and each support program can become a constructive step towards a better future for the Democratic Republic of Congo. Collective reflection and concerted action are essential to overcome the challenges of such magnitude.