Category: Economy

President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa has arrived in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for a two-day official visit to strengthen economic cooperation between the two countries. The leaders discussed areas of economic and trade cooperation, as well as the African Union’s Agenda 2063. This visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations and promote regional economic integration. Cooperation between South Africa and the DRC is crucial to boosting trade, attracting investment and promoting socio-economic development in both countries. This is an important opportunity to consolidate the ties between the two nations and contribute to the development of the region.

The Democratic Republic of Congo is facing a depreciation of the Congolese Franc and an increase in the prices of basic necessities, which directly affects the purchasing power of citizens and the economic situation of the country. Local businesses face higher costs as they have to source foreign currency to import products, which affects selling prices. Faced with this crisis, the government must review monetary policies, manage exchange rate fluctuations and support local production to reduce dependence on imports. Rapid and effective action is needed to relieve the population and guarantee its access to basic necessities at affordable prices.

In this article, we explore the causes of the rising prices of basic necessities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The Public Expenditure Observatory attributes this situation to the perpetuation of the neo-colonial system, which allows foreign companies to take advantage of the country’s resources without really benefiting the population. Moreover, inappropriate economic policies and the complicity of the ruling classes with imperialism also contribute to this rise in prices. Finally, endemic corruption and embezzlement of public funds further aggravate this situation. To improve the living conditions of the Congolese, it is essential to put in place fairer economic and governance policies, as well as effective measures to fight corruption.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has managed to maintain a certain economic stability despite some tensions in the market for goods and services. Inflation rose due to food and service prices, and the Congolese currency depreciated against the US dollar. To cope with these pressures, the Central Bank of Congo has taken measures, such as increasing its key rate and the coefficient of the compulsory reserve. The government is also encouraged to support domestic production and reduce import dependency. The Congolese authorities are thus working to stabilize the economy and reduce inflationary pressures.

In the first quarter of 2023, the export of diamonds from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) was a real success. Through artisanal and industrial mining, the total exported volume amounted to 165,816.30 carats, generating revenues of US$20,835,499.26 million. Artisanal mining played a key role, accounting for 76.40% of total production, while industrial mining contributed with 23.57%. Two companies, SACIM and MIBA, stand out in this sector. The provinces of Kasaï-Oriental, Kasaï-Central and Kasaï are the main areas of extraction, but other provinces also contribute in a more modest way. By encouraging the development of semi-industrial mining, the DRC can ensure a sustainable and balanced growth of its diamond industry, thus offering many opportunities both economically and socially.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa paid an official visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to strengthen economic cooperation between the two countries. During his stay, he met Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and discussed regional development and continental issues. The two countries stressed the importance of economic cooperation and explored opportunities for mutual development. President Ramaphosa’s visit testifies to the growing importance of economic cooperation among African countries in the pursuit of economic growth and sustainable development on the continent.

The depreciation of the Congolese currency is a major economic challenge for the DRC. The government is taking steps to halt this depreciation, including publishing official exchange rates daily. Raising the central bank’s key rate is also envisaged to reduce demand and stabilize the currency. Quick and effective action is crucial to restore investor confidence and ensure long-term economic stability.