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.
Category: Economy
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.
The rehabilitation of roads in Kinshasa improves the daily life of Congolese by facilitating travel and reducing transport costs. A recent ministerial visit demonstrates the government’s commitment to investing in quality infrastructure. The resurfaced roads allow faster and safer journeys, thus promoting the economic development of the country. However, it is essential to maintain investments and work in partnership to ensure the sustainability of these improvements.
President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi has appointed new facilitators for DRC’s state-owned enterprises, with the aim of strengthening governance and boosting the Congolese public sector. These nominations concern companies such as ANADEC, the Institut des archives du Congo, the FFN and INERA, among others. The new leaders will have the task of implementing strategies favorable to the economic development of the country. These changes aim to strengthen the confidence of domestic and foreign investors and to promote the economic potential of the DRC.
The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo attaches great importance to the modernization of infrastructure. The Minister of Infrastructure, Alexis Gisaro, recently visited several construction sites in Kinshasa to assess the progress of the work. Rehabilitation and construction are underway in the municipalities of Lemba, Limete, Kisenso and N’sele, aimed at improving circulation and facilitating access to the various districts. This work bears witness to the government’s desire to develop the country and improve the quality of life of citizens. International partners, such as the European Union and Great Britain, also support these projects.
The rising prices of basic necessities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a worrying problem that directly affects the purchasing power of the population. According to a report by the Public Expenditure Observatory (ODEP), this situation is due to several factors. The historical economic exploitation of the country by foreign companies and local elites contributes to the rising prices of consumer goods. Moreover, economic policies based on free competition and the reduction of state intervention do not take into account the specific realities of the DRC. The complicity of the ruling classes with imperialism and endemic corruption are also contributing factors to this situation. ODEP recommends fairer economic and governance policies, as well as measures to fight corruption. Collective action is needed to restore the purchasing power of the Congolese population.
The Franc Congolais (FC) is depreciating against the US dollar, driving up the prices of basic necessities. This situation worries the economic actors and impacts the purchasing power of the population. It is essential that the government take measures to stabilize the economy, reduce import dependency and support local production. Social programs must also be put in place to help vulnerable households. Raising awareness of local alternatives can help mitigate the effects of this situation. Durable solutions are needed to preserve Congolese purchasing power and food security.
Rising prices of basic necessities in the Democratic Republic of Congo are a growing concern. The ODEP conducted an investigation and identified the causes of this high cost of living: the neo-colonial system, unsuitable economic policies, the complicity of the ruling elites with imperialism and endemic corruption. ODEP proposes radical solutions to remedy this situation and calls on the government to act. It is time to put in place fairer economic and governance policies to guarantee a better future for all Congolese.
The Minister of Infrastructure of the DRC, Alexis Gisaro, visited the construction sites and launched the modernization of the roads in Kinshasa. He inspected the works in progress in several districts of the Congolese capital, and in particular kicked off the works of the B.A.T road in N’Sele. The Minister set a six-month deadline for its inauguration and called on the population to report any possible problems. He also visited other rehabilitation and construction sites in the districts of Lemba, Limete, and Kisenso. This visit bears witness to the government’s commitment to improving the infrastructure and living conditions of the people of Kinshasa.