The Democratic Republic of Congo has raised the employer contribution rate to the National Employment Office (ONEM) from 0.2% to 0.5%, a measure intended to bolster the agency’s finances and expand its services.

The decree, signed by Employment and Labor Minister Ferdinand Massamba wa Massamba on Sept. 24, 2025, requires all employers — including the state and humanitarian organizations — to remit 0.5% of total monthly payroll to ONEM. The 2018 regulation had set the contribution at 0.2%.

ONEM is the public body responsible for managing the labor market, including job placement, training initiatives, employment statistics and compliance of labor contracts with national law. The institution has faced financial difficulties, particularly in eastern regions where insecurity and M23 rebel occupation have disrupted contribution collection.

The new decree also introduces penalties. Employers who fail to provide required documents during inspections may face tax reassessments imposed by inspectors. In addition, unpaid contributions before Sept. 24, along with related penalties, will be recalculated under the new rate.

ONEM’s management, under new leadership since July 2023, has launched a recovery plan that includes raising staff salaries, improving working conditions and expanding activities. The agency intends to use the additional employer contributions to fund new offices in universities, territories and communes nationwide. Initial effects of the measure are expected from Oct. 1, 2025.

The reforms support President Félix Tshisekedi’s pledge to create 6.4 million jobs by 2028, with ONEM tasked to play a central role through its programs and services.

Timothée Manoke.