The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faces many challenges in terms of agriculture and food. However, President Félix Tshisekedi recently stressed the importance of developing the production and supply of local products to guarantee the country’s food security.
In this context, the Congolese government has put in place measures to support local farmers and promote the use of national agricultural products. President Tshisekedi insisted on the need to supervise farmers and encourage them to cultivate on larger areas. He also stressed the importance of providing them with improved seeds to improve the quality of harvests.
The president also emphasized the collection and distribution of national agricultural products to urban centers. He encouraged the Ministers of Economy, Agriculture and Scientific Research to take measures to facilitate this process and ensure an adequate supply of food products.
One of the initiatives taken by the Congolese government to reduce dependence on cereal imports is the use of cassava flour in the manufacture of bread and pastries. The DRC is the second largest producer of cassava in the world, after Nigeria, with 41 million tonnes produced. This substitution of cassava for wheat will limit imports and promote local products.
In addition to these specific actions, the Congolese government is also working on broader policies and strategies to diversify the economy and develop agricultural sectors. Programs such as the National Agricultural Development Program (PNDA), the Agricultural Volunteer Program (PVA), the Lukula Agro-Industrial Platform (PAIL) and the Support Project for the Recovery and Rehabilitation of the Agricultural Sector (PARRSA) have been established to promote agricultural development and the agro-industrial sector.
The objective of these initiatives is to strengthen the country’s food security by promoting the production and consumption of local products. By encouraging farmers and supporting agricultural sectors, the Congolese government hopes to reduce dependence on imports and stimulate the local economy.
In conclusion, the DRC faces significant challenges in the field of agriculture and food, but the government is mobilizing to promote the production and supply of local products. By encouraging farmers, making improved seeds available and promoting the use of cassava in the manufacturing of food products, the country aims to guarantee food security and reduce its dependence on imports.