The Prime Minister, Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde, recently tabled the finance bill for the 2024 financial year in the National Assembly. This budget, estimated at 40,463 billion Congolese francs or approximately 16.6 billion US dollars, represents an increase of 24.7% compared to that of the previous year.
Sama Lukonde stressed that the submission of this budget before the opening of the ordinary session in September is a constitutional requirement. He also highlighted the priorities of this budget, placing particular emphasis on the defense sector which requires considerable resources.
Health is also a priority, with the aim of coping with the pressure of Universal Health Coverage. Significant resources will be allocated to free maternity and post-delivery follow-up. In addition, the government will continue its reforms in various areas such as the diversification of the national economy, with increased support for agriculture, fishing, livestock and industry. Significant funds will also be allocated to the electoral process, both at the local and senatorial levels.
The Prime Minister also wanted to underline the importance of scientific research in the economic development of the country. Thus, 3% of the total budget will be allocated to this sector.
Finally, the government is committed to improving the salary conditions of public civil servants, to modernizing public administration and to controlling the wage bill.
This draft budget for the 2024 financial year demonstrates the Congolese government’s commitment to meeting the country’s needs in all key sectors. It reflects the desire to invest in defense, health, the economy, research and improving the living conditions of civil servants. Let us hope that this budget will help move the country forward on the path of development and progress.