The promulgation of the 2025 Finance Law in the Democratic Republic of Congo marks a major economic turning point with a budget of more than 51 billion Congolese francs. This 26% increase shows the government’s commitment to stimulating growth and meeting the needs of the population. The adoption of the budget by both chambers demonstrates political support for this initiative. To ensure success, it is crucial to improve transparency, fight corruption and invest in key sectors such as education and health. This law reflects the government’s vision to transform the economy, strengthen the country’s resilience and improve the quality of life of citizens.
Category: Economy
The article highlights the decline in prices of some staple food items in South Africa for the festive season. According to Pietermaritzburg Economic Justice & Dignity, the average price of a food basket has fallen slightly compared to last year. This price drop could ease consumers’ wallets for festive meals. Statistics show fluctuations in the prices of some items such as rice, maize flour, meat and vegetables, giving families the opportunity to enjoy Christmas meals while keeping their budget in check.
The construction of the Kalamba-Mbuji road in the Democratic Republic of Congo represents a crucial issue for regional integration and economic development. Despite past unsuccessful attempts, the current commitment of President Félix Tshisekedi to complete this project before the end of his term gives rise to new hope. The recent launch of the works by the Minister of Infrastructure and Public Works, accompanied by the announcement of available funds, seems to indicate a real desire to finally realize this vital infrastructure. The Kalamba-Mbuji road, beyond being a simple road, embodies a symbol of connectivity, progress and regional integration for Congo. Its completion will contribute to changing the face of the region and promoting its socio-economic development.
The launch of the first batch of local production of Glargine insulin in Egypt marks a significant step forward for the country’s pharmaceutical industry. This collaboration between Eva Pharma and Eli Lilly paves the way for insulin production in pen form, meeting the growing needs of the domestic market. With approximately 15% of the Egyptian population suffering from diabetes, this initiative reduces the price disparity between imported and locally produced insulin, providing financial relief to patients. This step forward contributes to reducing dependence on foreign currency while strengthening the national economy. The Ministry of Health is committed to the full localization of the pharmaceutical industry by 2025, opening new opportunities for the sector in Egypt.
The steep rise in public transport fares in Kinshasa during the holiday season is making travel difficult and expensive for residents. Prices have doubled or even tripled on some regular routes, particularly impacting residents of neighborhoods like Ozone. Traffic jams and the scarcity of transport are making the situation worse. The provincial Ministry of Transport plans to implement a fare structure to address this crisis.
Africa faces rising debt to the IMF, reflecting major financial challenges and increasing reliance on external financial assistance. IMF loans, while necessary, come with stringent conditions that can impact public investment. The most indebted countries include Egypt, Kenya, Angola, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, DRC, Ethiopia, South Africa, Cameroon, and Senegal. This reliance underscores the importance of sound financial management to ensure stable and sustainable economic growth.
The Red Sea ports are experiencing remarkable activity with a volume of goods of 16,000 tonnes handled in a day. Imports and exports are booming, reflecting a dynamic and growing economy. These port activities play a key role in international trade, promoting economic development and trade connectivity on a global scale.
The recent financial report of the Democratic Republic of Congo reveals an alarming deficit of 693.3 billion Congolese francs in December 2024. Despite palliative measures, public spending continues to exceed forecasts, highlighting the need for structural reforms to optimize tax revenues and rationalize spending. Economic experts insist on the urgency of more rigorous management of public resources to avoid a serious deterioration in the financial situation. The Central Bank of Congo continues to support the government in its efforts to redress its finances, stressing the importance of transparency and efficiency in the use of public resources to ensure sound and sustainable financial management.
The recent price reduction of targeted products in Congo is encouraging, but has not yet had the expected impact on consumers. Retailers are struggling to implement the reduction, mainly due to old stocks and coordination difficulties. The government is working to ensure that the reductions actually benefit consumers. The authorities must closely monitor the implementation of these measures to ensure real relief from the cost of living for the population.
Public finance management in the Democratic Republic of Congo is a crucial issue for the country’s development. Government securities play a central role in this strategy, allowing the government to mobilize funds to finance its public policies. However, the growth of public debt poses long-term sustainability challenges. It is essential that the Congolese government put in place transparent and accountable management measures to ensure that these financial resources truly contribute to the country’s economic growth. Vigilance in the face of global economic fluctuations is also necessary to maintain the attractiveness of Congolese securities for foreign investors. By effectively mobilizing these resources, the DRC will be able to ensure its financial stability and pave the way for a prosperous economic future for its citizens.