### Analysis of infrastructure work within the framework of the Sicomines contract in the DRC
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is, like many other countries rich in natural resources, engaged in a complex infrastructure process, often supported by international partnerships. The initial phase of infrastructure work funded within the framework of the Sicomines contract with a consortium of Chinese companies represents an example of these economic dynamics linked to Asian cooperation in Africa. To date, the amounts mobilized, the projects carried out, as well as the challenges that the DRC must face deserve an in -depth analysis to better appreciate the scope and the consequences of these investments.
#### A massive investment
The Afrewatch report reveals that the Sicomines contract mobilized an amount of US $ 1.053 billion, a majority of which was devoted to completed projects. This figure echoes an urgent need for modern infrastructure in the DRC, where estimates from the Ministry of Infrastructure amount to $ 14.7 billion for complete modernization. In this context, Chinese participation, with financial support estimated at $ 8 billion, raises questions about its real adequacy with local needs.
42 projects were carried out in this first phase, but it is noted that only 20 were permanently received. This observation arouses a legitimate question: what prevents the completion and acceptance of all these projects? The quality of the infrastructure, the efficiency of the realizations of realization, or even administrative and logistical questions, could be elements to consider in this table.
### Fund management and governance challenges
The new addendum signed in March 2024, bringing the total budget to $ 7 billion, highlights a major challenge for the Congolese government: the management and transparency of the funds from this partnership. Afrewatch advocates a global assessment of funded infrastructure, encouraging the Congolese Parliament to play an active role in this process. This need for transparency raises questions on the alignment of fund management practices on national laws in force, such as the decree relating to good budgetary governance and the public procurement code.
The recommendations made by Afrewatch also enjoin to reform the management framework for Sicomines funds. How can we strengthen confidence between different stakeholders, while ensuring optimal use of available resources?
#### dependence on natural resources
Another fundamental aspect of this dynamic lies in the fluctuation of funding, closely linked to variations in copper prices, set at 8,000 dollars per ton. This dependence raises the question of the sustainability of these long -term partnerships. What alternatives can be considered to secure these funding in a country whose richness in natural resources is both an asset and a source of structural instability?
It is in this complex interaction that the need for the DRC is emerging to diversify its investments and strengthen its local expertise in the management of infrastructure projects. This could not only alleviate the economic risks linked to market volatility, but also promote a more inclusive approach to the local population.
### towards a continuous evaluation and improvement
The challenges raised by the Sicomines project should not only be perceived as obstacles, but also as learning and growth opportunities. Beyond Afrewatch’s recommendations, it would be relevant to initiate an open dialogue between all the parties involved-government, businesses, civil society, and direct beneficiaries of these infrastructure. Such an approach could lead to collaborative solutions that would better meet the real needs of the Congolese population.
In conclusion, the current phase of infrastructure work within the framework of Sicomines represents both a hope of development and a governance challenge. The DRC, faced with its structural issues, must transform this experience into a lesson for the future. By a rigorous and transparent management of its international partnerships, it could not only modernize its infrastructure but also build a model of sustainable development, beneficial for all Congolese. In this context, the way to an assessment of the fair value of infrastructure and a proactive reform of fund management takes on its full meaning.