Retrocession of credits to the provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in June 2023
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) recently announced the retrocession of credits to the country’s twenty-six provinces. According to a report from the General Directorate of Budget Policies and Programming, nearly 191.6 billion Congolese Francs (CDF), or approximately $94.8 million, were allocated to the provinces as retrocession for the period up to to June 2023.
These retrocession credits were intended for the operation of the various decentralized territorial entities (ETD) in the country. The budgetary forecasts for the operating credits of the provinces and ETDs for this period amounted to 369.1 billion Congolese Francs (CDF).
The 2023 finance law provides for a total allocation of 738.3 billion Congolese Francs (CDF), or more than $360 million, to ensure the proper functioning of the provinces and ETDs of the DRC.
However, it should be noted that the management of the Congolese provinces has been marked by governance problems for several years. Conflicts between provincial executives and assemblies have hampered the implementation of development policies in many provinces.
Despite the recommendations made during previous Governors’ conferences, this situation persists in several provinces of the DRC.
It is essential that these retrocession credits are used transparently and effectively to support the development of the provinces and improve the living conditions of the population. Responsible management and good coordination between different levels of government are necessary to ensure that these resources actually reach local populations and contribute to real socio-economic development.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has immense economic potential and rich natural resources. It is crucial to invest wisely in the provinces to fully exploit this potential and create opportunities for all Congolese citizens.
The coming months will therefore be crucial to observe how these retrocession credits will be used and whether measures will be taken to improve governance and transparency in the management of the provinces of the DRC. It is important that local and national authorities work together to ensure sustainable and equitable development across the country.