Category: Economy

Banking in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in the DRC, is a major challenge for promoting the country’s economic and social development. With a relatively low bankarisation rate, Congolese banks are making great efforts to convince the population to adopt banking services. They set up initiatives adapted to the needs of the population, such as savings accounts with reduced fees and simplified opening conditions. In addition, they are developing mobile banking services to facilitate access to banking services. Banks also collaborate with international institutions to finance projects aimed at improving access to banking services. Banking in the DRC would make it possible to fight against the informal economy, promote better management of public finances and financially include the most vulnerable. However, it also requires proper financial education and building trust in banking institutions.

Saudi Arabia is in the running to host World Expo 2030 and is counting on the support of the Democratic Republic of Congo. During a meeting between representatives of the two countries, discussions took place on possible economic cooperation. Saudi Arabia sees in the DRC a potential ally to obtain the necessary support for its candidacy. However, competition is fierce with other candidate countries. For Saudi Arabia, the organization of the World Expo is a major challenge to position itself as a leading tourist and economic destination. For the DRC, cooperation with Saudi Arabia offers economic opportunities but must be assessed taking into account the interests of the country. The final decision will be taken at the BIE meeting in November 2023. In the meantime, the two countries continue to strengthen their relations and explore opportunities for economic cooperation.

In this article, we analyze the challenges faced by the National Council for Universal Coverage (CNCU) in the DRC and propose solutions to strengthen access to health care. We question the deferred payment system of the CNCU and suggest the creation of an autonomous health fund. By merging the resources of existing social security funds and deducting part of the taxes, it would be possible to ensure universal health coverage that is effective and accessible to all Congolese.

Banking in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in the DRC, is a major challenge for the region’s economic development. Despite the presence of many banks, the banking rate remains low, with only 13% of the population having access to banking services. Banks must therefore find innovative solutions to facilitate access to banking services, by developing their physical network and exploiting the opportunities offered by ICT and mobile telephony. In addition, they must convince populations excluded from the banking system of the advantages they can offer them. The promotion of financial inclusion and the mobilization of actors in the banking sector are essential to stimulate the economic development of the region.

The Congolese capital, Kinshasa, is preparing to host a “city of trades” aimed at offering vocational training adapted to young Congolese. This initiative, the result of a partnership between the DRC, Belgium and Egypt, aims to reduce the unemployment rate among young people and to promote a better match between training and employment. The “city of trades” will offer a multitude of free services, such as individual advice and a documentary space, to help young people prepare for their professional future. This initiative bears witness to the Congolese government’s commitment to vocational training and the fight against youth unemployment. The laying of the first stone of this promising project marks the beginning of a new era of opportunity and hope for Congolese youth.

The Yetu Establishments run by Kasereka Muhindo have been a key player in development in the DRC for more than 25 years. Their partnership with the Congolese government and their expertise have led to many public utility achievements, such as the construction of the town hall of Goma and the modernization of the Gambela market in Kinshasa. Despite criticism, their commitment to the presidential vision remains intact, making them a reliable partner for the Congolese state.

The construction of the Cité des Métiers in Kinshasa, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, marks an important step forward in the vocational training of the Congolese population. This ambitious project, supported by international partners such as Belgium and Egypt, aims to reduce youth unemployment and solve the problem of matching training and employment. The Cité des Métiers will offer resources and advice suitable for everyone, with the aim of preparing Congolese youth for a promising professional future. This initiative will contribute to the economic development and the fulfillment of the country’s youth.

The creation of a “health fund” in the Democratic Republic of Congo could strengthen the establishment of quality universal health coverage. By using the resources and beneficiaries of the existing social security funds, it would be possible to establish a solid base for this new fund. Solid financing mechanisms could be put in place by allocating part of the taxes and levies to the fund, as well as by using contributions from workers and taxpayers. This independent fund would improve access to health care for all Congolese citizens, while ensuring transparent management and adequate coverage. The creation of this fund would be an important step towards achieving universal health coverage in the DRC.

Summary :
The IGF and ANEP in the Democratic Republic of Congo are joining forces to fight against the embezzlement of public funds. Their collaboration aims to promote transparent and accountable management of public finances and property. By emphasizing prevention rather than repression, the IGF seeks to support managers in a process of good governance. Through awareness-raising actions and personalized follow-up, they hope to establish a culture of transparency and accountability within public companies, thus contributing to the economic and social development of the country.

Vodacom Congo and Trans-Academia have announced a partnership to facilitate the payment of student transport costs. Thanks to the M-Pesa mobile application, students can now make their payments easily and securely. By choosing to pay via M-Pesa, they get a 10% discount on every renewal and can even get a free renewal after three months. This collaboration aims to offer students a more modern transport experience while contributing to the dematerialization of payments and financial inclusion.