### Kinshasa: towards the eradication of pirate markets and public space issues
On June 4, 2025, a press release from the Town Hall of Kinshasa reported a directive emanating from Governor Daniel Buba, aimed at eradicating the pirate markets in the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Ambitious program or necessary measure? This initiative raises complex questions about the occupation of public space, the informal economy and the need for a livable city for all.
#### Context of the intervention
Kinshasa, a metropolis in full expansion with a population exceeding 11 million inhabitants, is faced with multiple challenges, including the management of public space. Rapid urbanization, poverty and the lack of adequate infrastructure has caused a proliferation of unregulated markets, often designated under the term “pirate markets”. These places, although they meet a tangible economic need for many inhabitants, pose problems of public disorder, safety and hygiene.
The announcement made by the governor is part of a broader framework of urban redevelopment operations, such as “Balabala Eza Wenze Te”. This sentence, which could be translated by “the street is not a place for the market”, underlines a desire to return to a certain standard of urban life. The investigation to release public holds is therefore double: on the one hand, it aims to restore public order; On the other hand, she seeks to promote a neat image of the capital.
### economic and social issues
However, the fight against pirate markets inevitably raises questions about the impact of such measures on the informal economy. According to studies carried out in the informal sector in the DRC, a significant proportion of the urban population depends on this type of trade for its subsistence. The brutal abolition of these markets could hinder the livelihoods of thousands of families.
In addition, while the desire to order is commendable, it is crucial to ask: what alternatives will be offered to economic actors affected by these measures? Urban planning must include not only sanctions, but also lasting solutions to help traders comply with new standards, without tarnishing their ability to provide for their needs.
### Environmental and security considerations
From an environmental point of view, market regulations can help improve urban planning and reduce nuisance (noise, wild parking). In this sense, the governor’s instructions seem necessary, but their implementation requires a balanced approach, taking into account the needs of the current occupants.
It is also essential to ensure that collaboration between the police, the local administration and the community actors is well established to ensure that the actions carried out are perceived as fair and fair. The transparency and commitment of citizens in this process will be undeniable assets to transform these challenges into development opportunities.
#### to an inclusive approach
Through this directive, the authorities of Kinshasa take on a measure which could potentially transform the urban landscape. However, a project of such a scale requires more than a simple instruction; He calls for an inclusive dialogue and a participatory approach to involve the population in the co-construction of urban space.
Regular monitoring of the effects of this initiative will also be essential to anticipate the negative consequences and adjust intervention strategies. Awareness initiatives, such as training for traders on hygiene and town planning standards, could support this process.
#### Conclusion
In short, the will of the urban authority to manage the occupation of public rights -of -way in Kinshasa is an approach that deserves to be reflected and contextualized. It could lead to a better quality of city life while posing significant social and economic challenges. Only a balanced approach, taking into account the needs of the most vulnerable and promoting real participation of citizens, will be able to guarantee the success of this initiative. The question remains: how to harmonize order and dignity in a city in search of reinvention? The answers to this question will determine the success of the operation “Balabala Eza Wenze Te” and the future of Kinshasa.