Category: Economy

** Towards a new budget governance in the DRC: the vision of Judith Suminwa Tuluka **

On February 6, 2025, the Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Judith Suminwa Tuluka, initiated a major budgetary reform during a meeting with the General Inspectorate of Finance (IGF). In a country faced with considerable economic challenges as insecurity and increasing debt, this meeting marks an important turning point towards a more transparent and strategic management of public finances. By focusing on priority sectors such as security, Suminwa hopes to restore the confidence of citizens and international partners, while promoting good governance.

However, the implementation of these reforms will be delicate, given the challenges of corruption and an ineffective allowance of resources. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of rigorous finance monitoring to ensure that public funds are used wisely. If these initiatives are successfully carried out, they could not only stabilize the country’s financial situation, but also pave the way for sustainable economic development. This new commitment could well write a promising chapter for the economic and social future of the DRC.

### A Nuanced Look at Egyptian Inflation: Beyond the Numbers

The recent decline in inflation in Egypt, from 24.1% in December to 23.0% in January, may seem reassuring, but behind this improvement lie complex realities. As many Egyptians continue to suffer from the impact of high prices on their purchasing power, particularly for essential goods such as food and medicine, it is crucial to understand the economic dynamics that fuel this inflation.

Historical analysis shows a record peak of 38% in September 2023, driven by explosive growth in the money supply. This tumultuous economic context invites a critical reflection on Egypt’s economic management strategy. Optimistic forecasts must therefore be accompanied by a real action plan aimed at stabilizing the market and protecting the most vulnerable classes.

Finally, fostering a collective dialogue around these issues appears to be a necessity. Rather than relying on numbers, it is essential to listen to the voices of citizens and traders to build a more accurate picture of Egypt’s economic reality. The true measure of success will be the ability to transform this good news on paper into concrete changes for the daily lives of Egyptians.

**Reducing the Cost of Living of Institutions: An Emergency for the DRC**

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is going through an economic and political crisis that calls for rigorous management of its resources. Judith Suminwa, a leading figure in the national debate, insists on the need for strengthened financial control of state institutions, particularly the General Inspectorate of Finance (IGF). With nearly 30% of state revenues often poorly redirected, the urgency of reforming public management is undeniable to free up funds for priorities such as health, security and education.

While mining companies such as DRC Gold Trading promise to increase their gold exports, transparent management of these resources is essential to guarantee real benefits for the Congolese. In addition, initiatives such as those of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA) in Maniema illustrate the development potential, but require support to maximize their impact.

In the labor market, abusive dismissals at the Directorate General of Revenue of Kasai-Central highlight the instability faced by public officials. In this delicate context, a rigorous audit of expenditures and greater accountability of institutions are essential to restore citizen trust and steer the DRC toward a future of inclusive and sustainable development.

### DRC: Budgetary Reform, Between Emergency and Opportunity

In a context of armed conflict, the Democratic Republic of Congo, under the leadership of Prime Minister Judith Suminwa, is embarking on a bold restructuring of its budgetary policy. Announced on February 5, 2025, this reform aims to establish strict spending priorities, focused mainly on defense and emergency interventions. Adopting a budgetary orthodoxy approach inspired by the war economy, the government is seeking to reallocate resources to meet an urgent security need while drawing inspiration from Keynesian theories.

However, this budgetary revision raises crucial questions about transparency and financial governance in a country still burdened by corruption problems. To succeed in this transition, the establishment of rigorous spending control and the adoption of digital fund tracking systems are becoming imperative. If the DRC uses this crisis as a springboard towards more efficient management of resources, it could finally begin a path towards sustainable economic autonomy, thus meeting the expectations of a population in search of a welfare state that meets the challenges of daily life.

### Mbau-Kamango Road Rehabilitation: A Promising Future for North Kivu

On February 5, the launch of the Mbau-Kamango road rehabilitation work offered new hope to the inhabitants of North Kivu. This project, initiated by Governor Evariste Somo Kakule, aims to strengthen regional connectivity, while addressing economic and security issues. By connecting Beni to the Ugandan border, this 79-kilometer road is crucial for cross-border trade and the opening up of local communities.

Beyond the economic benefits, this development could contribute to the stabilization of the region, by facilitating the mobility of security forces and reducing the risks of insecurity. The commitment of the local community is also highlighted, guaranteeing ownership of resources and sustainability of infrastructure. With an innovative and environmentally friendly approach, the rehabilitation of this road could mark the beginning of a new era for North Kivu, combining development and security, while giving residents back the access they so badly need.

### Goma: Between Violence and Economic Instability

In February 2025, Goma, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, faces a new wave of violence with the M23 assault on the facilities of the Industrial Promotion Fund (FPI). This looting not only highlights a rise in insecurity, but also deeply impacts the fragile economy of the region. Studies reveal a 45% drop in foreign investment due to the persistent violence, aggravating fear among local entrepreneurs. In addition, recent incidents compromise the ongoing electoral process, thus threatening the democratic stability of the country.

Faced with this alarming situation, concerted actions by the international community are crucial to support Goma and restore confidence in local institutions. The FPI looting is therefore more than a simple criminal act: it is an urgent call for intervention and solidarity in order to get this region out of the devastating cycle of violence.

**The Mining Sector in the DRC: Towards an Urban and Sustainable Transformation**

At the Investing in African Mining Indaba, Jean Bamanisa proposed a bold vision for the Democratic Republic of Congo: transforming mining camps into sustainable urban cities. He stressed the urgent need to reassess the role of multinationals in ensuring solid community development, especially in a country rich in resources but still lagging behind in urbanization. By advocating public-private partnerships, Bamanisa sees an opportunity to channel investments while promoting local economic benefits. This approach, coupled with integrated infrastructure planning, could revolutionize the Congolese economic landscape. The prospect of Expo Béton in March 2025 in Lubumbashi could be the springboard to this new era, where the mining sector becomes a real driver of sustainable development for the entire population. The future of the DRC thus rests on its ability to leverage its resources to build a better future.

**Kasai: The Moratorium that Reshuffles the Cards of Tax Culture**

The announcement by the Minister of Finance of Kasai, relating to the postponement of the payment of property tax until March 1st, is not limited to a simple additional delay. It opens an essential dialogue on the importance of tax culture in a province facing major socio-economic challenges. With only 30% of property owners respecting their tax obligations, the situation calls for collective awareness.

Minister Bazin Pembe insists on the need to respect payment procedures to avoid corruption and facilitate administrative procedures. The objective is clear: to mobilize the tax resources essential to the development of local infrastructure. By encouraging taxpayers to see this gesture as a civic act, it redefines the relationship between citizens and their province. Compared to other regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kasai can aspire to strengthen its tax culture through awareness campaigns and systematic reforms.

This moratorium could thus mark the beginning of a shift towards increased collective responsibility, where each tax paid becomes a cornerstone of provincial development. By integrating educational components on taxation from a young age, Kasaï could even become a model of citizen engagement in financing its own future. The challenge is colossal, but the benefits of a dynamic and respected taxation could transform the daily life of an entire community.

**The DRC’s resource conundrum: economic potential under the yoke of violence**

The Democratic Republic of Congo, rich in minerals such as copper and cobalt, faces a tragic paradox: its precious resources, essential to the global energy transition, are the source of conflict and poverty. At the Investing in African Mining Indaba forum, Prime Minister Judith Suminwa warned of international indifference to illegal mining that siphons off profits to the country’s detriment. While reforms are announced, their real impact remains uncertain in the face of corruption and armed violence ravaging the country. To transform this wealth into sustainable prosperity, it is crucial to establish a transparent mining market, with rigorous traceability practices. The responsibility of international actors and multinationals is all the more vital to ensure that Congolese resources are not only a curse, but a lever for ethical and inclusive development. The DRC is at a crucial turning point, where true collaboration between government, business and the international community could redefine its economic future and become a model for Africa. The time to act is now.

### Democratic Republic of Congo: A Key Player in the Tin Market

Between January and September 2024, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) made a strong impression on the global tin market, generating an impressive $409 million in export revenues. The sector, often overshadowed by other minerals, is poised to become a major economic pillar for the country, facilitated by a mix of industrial and artisanal mining. Governance and environmental challenges remain critical, but an inclusive industrialization strategy could propel the DRC onto the global tin stage, attracting foreign investment while ensuring sustainable development. As international demand grows, the future looks bright for the Congolese mining sector, but it will depend on a continued commitment to responsible and sustainable practices.