Category: Economy

** Hijacking scandal at the central Kongo: a threat to the future of infrastructure **

A recent report from the General Inspectorate of Finance (IGF) reveals a diversion of 2,068,093.93 dollars as part of the modernization of the Lumumba stadium in Matadi. This scandal throws a shadow on public management at the central Kongo and raises questions about endemic corruption that plagues the infrastructure sector in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Despite the promises of transparency of the executive head of Judith Suminwa Tuluka, skepticism persists as to the real efficiency of past investigations. The consequences go beyond finance: the stopping of work threatens local employment in a province where almost 48% of young people are unemployed, thus aggravating their vulnerability. This case must mobilize civil society to require rigorous and responsible management of public funds, transforming this challenge into an opportunity to straighten regional development.

** Ituri: Between ambushes and hope of economic renewal **

The territory of Djugu, in Ituri, is again immersed in terror, with recurrent ambushes orchestrated by the Codeco group, targeting transport vehicles on essential roads to the local economy. These attacks, which lead to the theft of important sums of money and establish a climate of anxiety, illustrate growing insecurity in an already fragile context for the inhabitants. Although this violence is not specific to Ituri, the region is distinguished by one of the highest rates of security incidents in Central Africa.

Beyond omnipresent fear, these acts of violence are severely brought to local trade, transforming vital roads into danger zones. Rivore communities are demanding a more effective military intervention, but the solution must go beyond a simple military presence. The example of Guatemala shows that integrated approaches, combining security and economic development, can offer a path to peace and prosperity.

Ituri has the opportunity to rethink its strategies in the face of violence, by integrating initiatives to support local businesses and education programs, while strengthening cooperation between humanitarian actors and the State. The challenge is significant, but it is an imperative to restore the confidence of citizens and allow the region to reconnect with a serene future, where security rhymes with development.

### Mobilization for Defense to Central Kasai: an appeal to identity and the future

The recent visit of Senator Jean Tshisekedi in Matamba, in Central Kasai, resonates as a powerful call for patriotic engagement and national responsibility. While the Democratic Republic of the Congo faces major security challenges, the mobilization of young people for the armed forces (FARDC) is illustrated not only as an answer to external threats, but also as a promise of collective identity.

However, behind this momentum hide worrying socio-economic realities. With an unemployment rate of young people over 40 %, the quest for a better future through military service raises questions about the sustainability of this choice and its implications for regional education and development. The duality between the call to serve the homeland and urgent needs in infrastructure and professional opportunities remains a real source of tension.

Beyond mobilizing speeches, the future of these young soldiers is uncertain. To guarantee a real transformation, it is crucial to link military engagement to educational and economic initiatives. Thus, the ambition of a central Kasai, both secure and prosperous, is based on a global vision where Defense and Development unite. By making the union between patriotism and tangible social progress, this mobilization could become a model of hope for the whole country.

** French agriculture in crisis: the challenges of the International Agriculture Fair **

The 61st International Fair of Agriculture in Paris highlights a bitter truth: French agriculture is a turning point. Emmanuel Macron, who opened this event in a more reserved atmosphere than the previous year, faces growing dissatisfaction among farmers. Major problems, such as the growing gap in distribution of margins and the pressure of imports, threaten not only the profitability of farms, but also the country’s food sovereignty.

Farmers, who denounce the stranglehold of large distribution on profits, call for concrete actions rather than speeches. Geopolitical issues, especially around the EU-mercosur agreement, exacerbate their fears in the face of unfair competition. While the president advocates constructive dialogue, the crucial question remains that of the government’s ability to transform promises into real solutions.

In this uncertain period, it becomes imperative to reinvent the French agricultural model to ensure sustainable production which preserves both the profitability of farmers and the quality of food. The time of promises must give way to concrete proposals, because the future of French agriculture is at stake.

** Title: Emmanuel Macron and agriculture: between declarations and reality **

During his visit to the agricultural show, Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed the importance of farmers, insisting that they should not be the “adjustment variable” of purchasing power and trade agreements. Faced with a sector in crisis, with a profitability falling and many disappeared farms, this declaration is part of a delicate economic context. Beyond the speech, the meeting underlines crucial issues: the need to protect farmers from market pressure and support the transition to sustainable agriculture. More than a simple showcase, the fair should be the essential place of exchange to forge a resilient future for French agriculture, where farmers are key players, not victims of a globalizing system.

** For a better future at work in the DRC: a campaign of hope for workers **

On February 19, 2025, the Democratic Republic of the Congo marked a turning point with the launch of the campaign “For a peaceful world of work, I commit myself!” », Initiated by the Belgian Development Agency and the international network for the right to social protection. Faced with an alarming reality where 90% of workers evolve in the informal sector, this initiative aims to establish worthy working conditions and to promote adequate social protection. By articulating its action around four pillars – decent jobs, respect for labor rights, social protection and social dialogue – the campaign aspires to transform the landscape of work in the DRC. While the country is beginning to become aware of the challenges linked to harassment and precariousness, this approach presents itself as a glimmer of hope, calling all the actors to unite for a lasting and inclusive change. Congolese workers, long neglected, are now waiting for dignity and social justice are finally tangible realities.

** The economic challenges of Senegal under Ousmane Sonko: a call to the national start **

On February 21, 2025, Senegalese Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko issued an alarming observation of the country’s economy during an essential meeting in the National Assembly. Faced with a critical budgetary situation exacerbated by the pandemic and geopolitical tensions, he pleaded for more transparency and rejected the austerity plans. With a call for citizen mobilization, Sonko evokes the need for a collective commitment to overcome this crisis, inspired by similar movements on the African continent. The eyes of the world are now riveted in Senegal, the choices of which could influence other African nations in the face of similar economic challenges.

** Fight against tax evasion: the DRC at a decisive turning point **

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is found at a crucial crossroads in the fight against tax evasion, while the revelations of the General Inspectorate of Finance (IGF) highlight the gaps of an already weakened tax system. The survey revealed that more than 11,000 companies, declared inactive, continue to benefit from unjustified access to bank funds, thus depriving the state of essential resources. In addition, nearly 1,000 companies operate without a tax number, escaping any regulation.

While transparency and economic responsibility seem to be the watchwords, this situation is also part of an international context marked by examples of fruitful reforms in other countries, such as Kenya. The Congolese government has started significant efforts to rectify the shooting with an ambitious budget, but the real transformation will only be possible with concrete measures guaranteeing a fair set of tax bonds for all companies.

In short, these challenges offer the DRC a unique opportunity to reform its tax approach, to strengthen its economy, and to restore the confidence of its citizens. The DRC’s fiscal future is at stake, and the effectiveness of future measures will determine the path to shared prosperity.

** The urban Renaissance of Egypt: an ambition between dream and reality **

The ambitious project of the Central Affairs District (CBD) in the new Egyptian administrative capital promises a radical transformation of the country’s town planning. However, behind the futuristic skyscrapers and the displayed enthusiasm hide many questions. What will be the real economic, social and environmental impacts of this feverish initiative? Between promises of foreign investments and risks increasing inequalities, Egypt must redouble their efforts to make this metamorphosis an inclusive and lasting success. The challenge is colossal: it is not enough to build monumental structures, it is necessary to build a real resilient society for tomorrow.

** Bukavu: Economic Renaissance and persistent uncertainties after the invasion of the M23 **

On February 19, 2023, Bukavu, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, began a slow economic restart after the invasion of the M23 rebels. Although markets such as Nyawera and Kadutu are starting to come back to life, an atmosphere of fear and distrust continues to gangrene the daily lives of the inhabitants. The economy, fragile and dependent on local trade and agriculture, is slowed down by fears of violence and looting which disrupt the recovery momentum. Despite recent local initiatives, distrust of the new authorities, exacerbated by public summons from the rebels, adds to the complexity of the situation.

Studies show that tensions can reduce transactions up to 40 % in time of conflict, seriously affecting livelihoods. In a context where stability remains uncertain, the inhabitants must navigate between the need to relaunch their activities and the fear of a rapid return to violence. The example of Bukavu illustrates the unique challenges faced by the regions affected by prolonged conflicts, while highlighting the crucial importance of legitimate leadership and community initiatives to build a more promising future. The way towards prosperity is based on the resilience of the inhabitants who, despite the obstacles, aspire to shape their destiny.