Title: Special Economic Zone projects in the DRC are progressing thanks to the leadership of President Félix Tshisekedi
Introduction :
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has recently experienced major progress in its economic development projects thanks to the impetus given by President Félix Tshisekedi. During an inspection visit to the Maluku Special Economic Zone (SEZ), the Head of State encouraged the government to accelerate the establishment and operationalization of SEZs in the country. This measure aims to revive industrialization and attract investments in strategic sectors. This article highlights the actions undertaken by President Tshisekedi to promote SEZs in the DRC.
Development :
During his visit to the Maluku SEZ, President Félix Tshisekedi launched the production of tiles and earthenware for the company Saphire Ceramics DRC SAS. This inauguration symbolizes the first realization of a project in this industrial zone, and thus marks the beginning of a new era for the economic development of the DRC.
President Tshisekedi underlined the importance of quickly finalizing the process of granting a preferential tariff for electrical energy to guarantee the competitiveness of companies established within the SEZs. He therefore asked the Ministers of National Economy and Electricity and Hydraulic Resources to propose concrete solutions in this direction.
In addition, the Head of State gave clear instructions to the ministers in charge of Budget and Finance to complete the process of creating the Special Fund for Financing SEZs. This fund will make it possible to allocate substantial resources to support the development of SEZ projects throughout the country.
President Tshisekedi also addressed the issue of the Kin Malebo SEZ and asked the Ministers of Justice, Finance, Industry and Land Affairs to present to him a report on the execution of the framework agreement relating to to this area and its progress.
Finally, the Head of State turned to the Minister of Portfolio to study the possibility of portfolio companies taking a stake in SEZ projects. This measure aims to promote synergy between the different economic actors and to guarantee the success of the SEZs in the DRC.
Conclusion :
Thanks to the impetus given by President Félix Tshisekedi, the Special Economic Zone projects in the DRC are progressing quickly. The Head of State’s visit to the Maluku SEZ marked the start of a new chapter in the country’s economic development. By encouraging the government to accelerate the establishment of SEZs, President Tshisekedi aims to revive the industrialization of the DRC and attract investments in key sectors. With the creation of the Special Fund for Financing SEZs and the establishment of a preferential tariff for electrical energy, the conditions are met to ensure the competitiveness and success of SEZs in the DRC.