Category: Economy

** South African agriculture: between economic challenges and future opportunities **

South African agriculture, considered to be the country’s economic lung, sails in tumultuous waters, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and protectionist policies. However, a recent report reveals a revival of confidence among farmers, fueled by favorable weather conditions. The challenges remain, in particular dependence on external markets and expensive customs rates. To deal with it, the sector could take advantage of strategic partnerships, the adoption of digital technologies and a proactive approach in animal health. In addition, an overhaul of marketing strategies would enhance South African products on the international market. In the end, the key lies in a collective vision which transforms these challenges into opportunities to strengthen the resilience of South African agriculture.

### Invisible war: Congolese economy in danger

Jeannette Katshunga, Congolese business leader, will alert this Thursday at the Press Club Brussels Europe on the economic ravages of war to the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR-Congo). Despite the natural richness of the country, this conflict transforms prosperity into a burden, paralyzing local entrepreneurs. Agricultural production in the Kivu region has dropped by 70 % and the unemployment rate has climbed 50 % since the start of hostilities. Katshunga also denounces the direct consequences of this war: confiscated trucks and looted goods, leaving the small and medium -sized enterprises in oblivion. It calls for international awareness on the need for economic repairs to help these collateral victims. It is time to listen to the voice of those who, although often invisible, carry the economic future of the DR-Congo.

### The DRC has a crucial turning point: towards effective and sustainable governance

While the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) engages in the formation of a government of national unity, the debates on structural reforms are intensifying. Among the significant proposals is the creation of a ministry dedicated to public-private partnerships (PPP), an initiative that could revitalize the economy by mobilizing private investments for essential infrastructure. This project, carried by leaders like Fabrice Isapembe Lonkeke, symbolizes a desire for transparency and modernization to attract foreign capital.

At the same time, reforms at the Ministry of the Interior are envisaged to strengthen local governance, a necessary choice to meet the current challenges. By drawing inspiration from successful models like that of Rwanda, the DRC has the opportunity to improve its human development.

However, peace and security remain absolute priorities. Faced with an “economic war” and an alarming poverty rate, the future of the DRC will depend on its ability to establish significant changes, strengthen citizens’ confidence and establish strategic partnerships. The DRC is at a crossroads, where the implementation of daring reforms could open the way to effective governance and sustainable development.

** Uvira: the visit of Guy Kabombo Mwandiamvita, between promises and realities **

On April 7, Uvira, a key town in Sud-Kivu, welcomed Guy Kabombo Mwandiamvita, Vice-Prime Minister and Minister of Defense. His promising speech, stressing the support of President Tshisekedi and the will to national unity, contrasts with the reality of the inhabitants, confronted with major socio-economic challenges and with persistent instability. While the arrival of the minister has aroused hope and interest, the population of Uvira remains circumspect in the face of often non -materialized promises. Consolidating social cohesion will require more than speeches: concrete actions and a lasting commitment are necessary to respond to education, health and development attacks which affect this region devastated by conflicts. Uvira’s future will depend on the government’s ability to transform these commitments into reality.

** The key role of Inkatha Freedom Party in the face of the increase in VAT in South Africa **

The 0.5% increase in value added tax (VAT) in South Africa arouses strong reactions, in particular on the part of the opposition, which is concerned about its consequences on modest households. In this delicate context, the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP), led by Velenkosini Hlabisa, promotes a call for stability and political dialogue. By offering a conciliatory perspective, IFP highlights the importance of not mixing tax reforms and governance crises, while pleading for a temporary increase in VAT. The growing tensions within the Government of National Unity (GNU) call for continuous negotiations, like European models of coalitions. Faced with pressing economic challenges, the ability of parties to work together turns out to be crucial for the future of the country. Indeed, the sustainability of the GNU depends on a collective desire to prioritize the interests of citizens and to overcome ideological divisions.

### The Democratic Republic of Congo: an ambitious economic transition

While the Democratic Republic of Congo is preparing to write a new chapter in its economic history, it is moving away from its dependence on mineral resources to embrace daring diversification. Massive investments in infrastructure, such as the rehabilitation of the national road 1 and the construction of social housing, aim to stimulate trade and respond to the housing crisis. At the same time, the country relies on its energy potential, in particular with the extension of the Busanga dam, in order to become a renewable energy leader.

In the digital field, the “DRC Digital 2030” program suggests a desire for technological modernization, promising advances that could reposition the country on the world scene. However, to succeed in this transition, the government will have to introduce structural reforms and promote an attractive investment climate.

At this crucial stage, the challenge lies not only in the implementation of these initiatives, but also in the need to create a sustainable and inclusive economy that benefits all Congolese. The DRC has the potential to transform its ambitions into realities, but it is essential to hear all voices in this quest towards shared prosperity.

## commercial war: China, between resilience and economic opportunities

The trade war between the United States and China announces a new era of uncertainty and economic reinvention. Faced with American prices reaching 54%, Beijing is not content to undergo pressure, but reacts with a daring strategy. The official discourse, relayed by the People’s Daily, manifests a deep resilience and the will to transform the challenges into opportunities.

By investing massively in infrastructure through the “Belt and Road Initiative” and by supporting its technological sector, China appears as a world leader, while strengthening its self -sufficiency. This turning point towards a “globalization 2.0”, where trade is reorganized without the United States, raises crucial questions for the future of international trade.

In a context of growing nationalism, the dynamics between these two superpowers could redefine the standards of globalization and set new challenges to economic partners, especially in Africa and Southeast Asia. The world carefully looks at this struggle where the ability to adapt and diversify will be the key to success.

** Treasury bills indexed: a strategic maneuver to relaunch the Congolese economy **

The auction of indexed treasury bills, scheduled for April 8, 2025, marks a daring step in the economic strategy of the Democratic Republic of Congo. With an objective of mobilizing 70 billion Congolese francs, or about $ 23 million, this initiative aims to strengthen public investment in essential fields such as infrastructure, education and health. Offering an interest rate of 10% over a period of 18 months, the government hopes to attract investors despite an economic climate often deemed risky.

However, the success of this maneuver will depend on the perception of the solvency of the state and the ability to restore the confidence of investors. The DRC has the opportunity to position itself as a dynamic player on the African capital market, provided that its investment instruments are diversifying and ensuring transparency in fund management. If this initiative is well executed, it could promote inclusive and sustainable economic development, thus stimulating a more solid local financial market.

** Gold: Economic paradox under the Trump administration **

While the Trump administration imposes customs tariffs on many products, gold is curiously exempt, raising questions about real motivations behind this decision. Traditionally perceived as a reflection of stability in times of economic uncertainty, gold would allow the United States to attract investments while avoiding destabilizing an already fragile market. This choice, both strategic and potentially desperate, underlines growing global economic tensions and could influence international relations, while countries like China and Russia increase their own gold reserves.

With growing demand for precious metal, both in investors and in central banks, gold may well become the symbol of a significant reconfiguration of the markets. In the end, this exemption could mark a period of renewed economic rivalry, requiring increased vigilance on its future impact for the global economy.

** DRC: Mining and security issues, a future to build **

The Democratic Republic of Congo is at a delicate crossroads: a potential economic partnership with the United States might seem attractive, but it raises fundamental questions about sovereignty and resource management. Faced with the threat of the M23, deputy Delly Sesanga calls for in -depth reform of the army and the governance system, warning that security barter could lead to a fiasco. The experience of Nigeria, stuck in a cycle of corruption and inequality despite its oil wealth, underlines the dangers of excessive dependence on raw materials. For sustainable development, the DRC must favor local autonomy, transform its resources on site and build solid infrastructure to ensure that mining wealth really benefits its population. The challenge is immense, but the construction of an inclusive future is possible if man remains at the heart of political priorities.