Category: Economy

**DRC Mines: Towards a Sustainable and Diversified Economy**

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), rich in mineral resources such as copper and cobalt, faces crucial challenges to ensure a sustainable economy. Although these metals are essential for green technologies and represent more than 90% of mining exports, their massive extraction poses serious environmental and social problems. The concentration on these minerals also makes the country vulnerable to fluctuations in international prices.

To promote sustainable growth, the DRC must diversify its exports by exploiting other resources such as zinc and tin, while strengthening its local processing capacities. Initiatives such as the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) could ensure that mining revenues truly benefit the population. By adopting an integrated approach that combines responsible exploitation, diversification and good governance, the DRC holds the keys to transforming its challenges into real opportunities and building a more prosperous future for generations to come.

**Minimum Wage Reform in the DRC: A Challenge with Multiple Stakes**

The Democratic Republic of Congo is at a critical juncture with the proposal to increase the Guaranteed Interprofessional Minimum Wage (SMIG) from 7,075 to 14,500 Congolese francs. This initiative, supported by many stakeholders, raises crucial questions about the quality of life of workers, purchasing power and the ability of small and medium-sized enterprises to adapt. With a youth unemployment rate exceeding 38%, the revaluation of the SMIG could offer a glimmer of hope while posing the risk of tensions on employment and the economic viability of companies. The need for transparent and inclusive social dialogue is therefore essential, in order to guarantee a responsible and balanced implementation of this reform. In a complex economic context, the DRC has the opportunity to write a new chapter for sustainable social and economic justice.

**Investing in the DRC: A New Economic Chapter in Perspective**

The “Investing in the DRC” forum, held in Paris on January 21, 2025, provided a platform to redefine the image of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and attract foreign investors. Hosted by President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi and with the support of NBA star Tony Parker, the event highlighted the richness of the DRC’s human potential, particularly with an enthusiastic young population. Tony Parker stressed the importance of investing in Congolese youth through sports, highlighting a promising future.

However, challenges remain, particularly in terms of infrastructure, where the Minister of Communication, Patrick Muyaya, stressed the need to develop road networks and housing. Despite promises of optimism, the DRC must navigate between its aspirations and the reality on the ground. Building a strong economic diplomacy, inspired by successful African models, could be key to realizing these opportunities. As the world emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic, the DRC aspires to position itself as a key player in the energy transition thanks to its natural resources. Through collective engagement, the DRC could well outline a prosperous economic future, both for its citizens and for international investors.

**Kongo Central: Between Development Ambitions and Confidence Challenges**

The Governor of Kongo Central, Grâce Bilolo, recently requested authorization to contract a $15 million loan, intended to revitalize essential infrastructure such as the Songololo-Lufu road and the construction of a Palais des Congrès. This initiative represents a potential turning point for a province rich in resources but long neglected. However, it is sparking debate among the population, with critics expressing doubts about the transparency of the management of public funds. To regain citizen trust, proactive communication and forums for exchange could prove crucial. While improving infrastructure could boost the local economy, a balance between political ambition and fiscal responsibility remains essential to avoid long-term budgetary imbalances. At the heart of these challenges, Grâce Bilolo has the opportunity to redefine the relationship between the provincial government and its fellow citizens, paving the way for a promising renewal for Kongo Central.

### Lubumbashi: Fuel Crisis Exposes Structural Flaws

Lubumbashi, the capital of Haut-Katanga, is experiencing an unprecedented fuel crisis, turning gasoline into an inaccessible luxury for many. Exorbitant prices from informal resellers, reaching 10,000 Congolese francs per liter, underscore the impact of a supply disruption exacerbated by logistical problems and poor infrastructure. The consequences of this shortage are profound: inflation is soaring while transportation services, essential to daily life, are seeing their costs rise, jeopardizing household economies. This critical context underscores the urgency of systemic reform to rethink supplies and stimulate sustainable solutions in the face of increasing dependence on imports. The Lubumbashi crisis is a call to action—an opportunity to forge a future where fuel is once again an accessible resource for all.

**Goma: Insecurity on the Rise, Traders’ Lives at Risk**

The city of Goma, in the heart of North Kivu, is facing an alarming rise in targeted violence, particularly against traders, key players in the informal economy. The recent murder of Murhula in the street is part of a series of similar attacks that have claimed the lives of at least five traders since October 2022. These tragedies raise pressing questions about the safety of citizens and the effectiveness of authorities. In response, initiatives such as the “Safisha Muji” campaign seek to restore order, but distrust remains in the traditional approach to fighting crime. To overcome this crisis, a collaborative approach between the police, civil society and local communities is essential. Protecting traders is not only a security issue, but also a social justice and development issue. Faced with this reality, Goma must rethink its security strategy to offer all its inhabitants a future of peace and dignity.

**Tragic explosion in Nigeria: A revelation of socio-economic challenges**

A devastating tanker truck accident near Suleja has claimed the lives of 98 people, raising critical questions about public safety and living conditions in Nigeria. Beyond the loss of life, this tragedy highlights the inadequacies of emergency response and energy crisis management in a country marked by shortages and rising fuel prices. As many Nigerians, driven by necessity, try to salvage fuel from damaged vehicles, this situation highlights the paradox of access to energy in a country rich in resources but where energy remains precious. However, this disaster could be the catalyst for a collective awakening and a necessary reassessment of energy policies. By drawing on lessons from countries that have faced similar situations, Nigeria could consider sustainable solutions for an energy transition towards safer and more accessible practices. The tragedy, although terrible, could thus open the way to a more promising future.

**The New Trump Era: An Opportunity for Africa to Renew**

With Donald Trump taking office as President of the United States on January 20, 2025, new geopolitical dynamics are on the horizon. Far from being a simple threat to African-American relations, this administration could foster a beneficial reassessment of economic exchanges. While protectionism could reduce access to American markets, it also encourages African nations to empower themselves through initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Such a transformation could strengthen intra-African trade and foster more resilient development.

In addition, the African diaspora, with financial transfers reaching $48 billion, plays a crucial role in bilateral relations. By capitalizing on this resource and on the rise of technological innovations in Africa, the United States could establish mutually beneficial partnerships. In short, the Trump era, although marked by challenges, presents an opportunity to lay the foundations for genuine cooperation, oriented towards innovation and shared enrichment, for a promising economic future.

**Haut Katanga: A Fuel Shortage That Reveals Structural Flaws**

The province of Haut Katanga is facing a fuel shortage that goes beyond a simple lack of supply. Long queues at gas stations point to a deep crisis, a consequence of increased dependence on international markets and serious logistical gaps. Dramatic increases in public transport fares are aggravating the situation, particularly affecting vulnerable populations. Despite attempts by the government to respond, such as an emergency meeting with oil companies, solutions remain ephemeral and do not address the systemic causes of this crisis. The need for a sustainable energy approach is urgent to restore citizens’ mobility and ensure resilience to future hazards. The voices of the people are rising, calling for real change that goes beyond simple stopgap measures.

**Towards Aviation Excellence in the DRC: A Strategic Turning Point**

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is at a turning point for its aviation sector, illustrated by a recent expert mission to Addis Ababa, in partnership with Ethiopian Airlines. The goal is clear: to transform immense potential into a true aeronautical success story. Despite governance and infrastructure challenges, the delivery of new aircraft and the launch of Air Congo promise a revival. To draw inspiration from the successes of other African nations, the DRC must innovate and adapt, with a focus on training and investment. This path is strewn with obstacles, but it also offers vast opportunities for sustainable and inclusive economic growth, with the hope of making Kinshasa a recognized aviation hub on the continent. Every step counts in this quest for shared skies for Africa.