Category: Economy

**A New Era for Education in Kasai: The Installation of the Provincial Antenna of ESU in Tshikapa**

January 14, 2024 marks a decisive turning point for higher education in the Democratic Republic of Congo with the inauguration of the provincial antenna of the general intendance of higher education in Tshikapa. Chaired by Professor Casimir Mashi Ngunza, this initiative aims to meet the specific needs of higher education institutions, while improving local administrative management. By facilitating the rehabilitation of educational infrastructure, the antenna positions itself as a catalyst for the socio-economic development of the Kasai region. Faced with the challenges that afflict the education sector, such as the lack of funding and adequate infrastructure, this antenna could transform access to quality education, paving the way for a new generation of committed and innovative leaders. As Nelson Mandela pointed out, “Education is the most powerful weapon to change the world,” and Kasai seems determined to seize this opportunity.

**Oligopoly in South Africa’s Fresh Produce Market: Reform Needed for Economic Fairness**

South Africa’s fresh produce market, valued at R53 billion, is dominated by a small number of players, creating an oligopoly that has negative consequences for low-income households. Rising prices and declining product quality are critical issues that are exacerbating the country’s already deep-rooted economic inequalities. To address this, the Competition Commission is proposing a restructuring of the retail landscape, aimed at providing greater scope for small retailers, while promoting innovative distribution models. These changes could boost the market and improve access to quality fresh produce for all. In short, this transformation of the sector is a moral imperative to build a more just and inclusive society in South Africa.

### Kinshasa and its Transport Chaos: A Call for Modernization

At the beginning of 2025, Kinshasa is facing an acute crisis in its public transport. Despite the introduction of a new fare scale by Governor Daniel Bumba Lubaki to curb driver abuse, compliance with these regulations remains a mirage. Drivers, already burdened by catastrophic traffic conditions and prohibitive operating costs, see these new measures as a painful overload.

Behind this apparent suffering lies an obsolete system, the result of poor planning and the inefficiency of incomplete governance, where 60% of the roads are in a pitiful state. Far from coercive solutions, it is becoming urgent to consider innovative alternatives such as carpooling or the implementation of tactical urban planning projects.

Kinshasa has the opportunity to reinvent its transport network, not only to guarantee the people of Kinshasa a fundamental right to mobility, but to build a resilient city. This is a real turning point that the city must seize to embrace modernity and tackle the roots of its disenchantment.

### Kinshasa: The Urgency of Reinventing Mobility

Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is facing an unprecedented mobility crisis. Every day, millions of Kinshasa residents find themselves trapped in chronic traffic jams, the result of an overloaded road network and a lack of suitable infrastructure. According to the World Bank, these congestions could cost the Congolese economy more than $1.2 billion per year. The causes of this complex situation are multiple: rapid urbanization, obsolete vehicle fleet and disorganization of public transport.

To get out of this impasse, innovative and sustainable solutions are needed. Professor Jean De Dieu Minengu recommends a multimodal transport model, integrating buses, trains and river options, as the key to freeing up traffic and revitalizing the local economy. This future will also require citizen engagement, with awareness-raising initiatives and the promotion of public transport.

It is time for Kinshasa to look to a future where mobility is no longer synonymous with congestion, but with opportunities. The choices that decision-makers and the people of Kinshasa make today will determine the face of the city tomorrow. A transition to an inclusive and sustainable transport system is not only feasible, but essential for the well-being of all.

### Metro Express: A Chance for Transformation in Mauritius

The Metro Express, a tramway launched in 2020 to relieve traffic congestion in Mauritius, is facing a worrying deficit of 300 million rupees per year, jeopardizing its future. Despite these financial challenges, the project attracts 45,000 users daily, testifying to its crucial role in urban mobility.

Faced with this situation, there is no shortage of solutions. Increased awareness, public-private partnerships and a reassessment of free travel measures could turn things around. Rather than seeing this project as a burden, it is time to consider it as a valuable opportunity to transform mobility in Mauritius into a sustainable and inclusive model. With the right vision and innovative strategies, the Metro Express could not only preserve a major investment, but also contribute to a more connected and harmonious future for all Mauritians.

**Lodja in turmoil: a turning point towards the fuel crisis?**

The city of Lodja, in the heart of the Sankuru province in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is facing an alarming rise in the prices of fuel and basic necessities. The deterioration of road infrastructure, including two crucial bridges on the RN7, is seriously hampering the transport of goods and increasing the economic precariousness of the region. According to Jean-Paul Ndiadi, president of the local civil society, this crisis requires rapid and effective measures from the authorities. While nearly 35% of Congolese live below the poverty line, the situation in Lodja could herald a major food issue. To overcome this ordeal, it will be essential to put in place a systemic response, combining investment in infrastructure, fair trade practices, and civic engagement. The future of this region will depend on the ability of its leaders to act in favor of sustainable development and a resilient economy for all.

**Optimizing Financial Management in the DRC: Towards Decentralized Training**

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is going through a crucial phase of financial transformation, marked by the imminent launch of a training initiative by the Inspector General of Finance, Christophe Bitasimwa. Scheduled for January 11, 2025, this session aims to strengthen the skills of decentralized entities in financial management. In partnership with the University of Fribourg in Switzerland, this approach aims to combine academic know-how and Congolese realities, while drawing inspiration from the federalism models of other countries such as Germany and Indonesia.

However, decentralization presents significant challenges, including corruption and mismanagement of resources, making the mission of the IGF all the more essential. By improving the training of financial inspectors, the DRC could not only strengthen transparency and financial efficiency, but also redefine the perception of the government towards its citizens.

Through this initiative, the DRC is paving the way for more rigorous financial management, promising long-term benefits for future generations. The road is long, but with concrete commitments, the DRC could become a model for other nations facing similar challenges.

**The Congolese Economy: A Storm Ahead**

The recent economic report from the Central Bank of Congo highlights an alarming situation for the public finances of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). With a cash deficit of CDF 1,088.6 billion at the end of 2024, the Congolese State faces major challenges in an uncertain global context, marked by economic fluctuations and geopolitical tensions. Although the financial authorities have exceeded their revenue targets, reaching CDF 1,961.6 billion, the increase in public spending of 36.2% compared to forecasts highlights deficient budgetary management.

The cumulative deficit of CDF 1,941.1 billion highlights the urgent need for structural reforms. The BCC’s recommendations underline the importance of increased budgetary discipline and diversification of revenue sources. The experience of other African countries could serve as a model for the DRC, but it is the will of its leaders and the active participation of civil society that will determine the outcome of this crisis. At a crossroads, the DRC must choose between rigorous management of its resources or the risk of a perpetual cycle of deficits.

**Mineral Exploitation in the DRC: A Tense Turning Point**

The Democratic Republic of Congo, rich in mineral resources, is at a critical crossroads with the intensification of the fight against illegal exploitation orchestrated by the governor of South Kivu, Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki. By directly targeting Chinese companies, he is laying the foundations for possible change in a sector often plagued by corruption and impunity. In an already fragile socio-economic context, the recent arrests of Chinese nationals illustrate the urgency of a clear and transparent legal framework.

However, the path to ethical and sustainable exploitation will not be simple. The voices of civil society, which denounce the potential collusion between governments and exploiters, remind us that the fight against illegality must be comprehensive and inclusive. The key lies in a constructive partnership between the government, investors and local communities, in order to transform this wealth into a real lever for development for a more prosperous and environmentally friendly future. Has the DRC finally found the momentum needed to transform its heavy legacy into an opportunity for change?

**A Silent Tragedy: The Shadow of Motorcycle Taxi Drivers in Likasi**

Haut-Katanga, despite its mineral wealth, is the scene of growing insecurity, illustrated by the tragic discovery of the bodies of four motorcycle taxi drivers, whose arms were tied. This tragedy is not limited to a simple criminal case, but symbolizes the deep inequalities and economic precariousness that undermine the region. In search of survival, these young workers, victims of increasing violence, deserve better protection and concrete support from the authorities. As the community mourns its missing, it is urgent to initiate a collective reflection on living and working conditions, in order to transform this tragedy into a lever for positive and lasting change. The time has come to take action to restore security and give hope to those who are fighting for a better future.