The International Finance Corporation (IFC) will help the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) boost its telecommunications sector. The news was disclosed on October 8, 2024, during a meeting between Augustin Kibassa Maliba, the DRC’s Minister of Posts and Telecommunications, and Mary Porter Peschka, IFC's Regional Director for East Africa.

"We discussed our willingness to support the Congolese government in developing the telecommunications sector. This sector is vital for both the DRC and our organization," said Mary Porter Peschka. The goal is to improve the business climate and attract more investment in digital infrastructure, especially in rural areas.

While details about the IFC's commitment remain unclear, the support should enhance digital skills and develop modern digital infrastructure.

This initiative aligns with the DRC's National Digital Plan launched in 2019, which prioritizes telecommunications development. 

According to the Congolese telecom regulator, the number of mobile users rose from 49.8 million in 2022 to 56.2 million by December 2023. Additionally, mobile market revenues reached 11.898 billion FCFA ($19.9 million) in July 2023, up by 9.7% year-on-year.

The IFC's support will focus on several key areas, including strengthening digital skills and modernizing digital infrastructure. The overall aim is to create an environment that fosters innovation and investment while attracting new private-sector players and boosting local business competitiveness.

Samira Njoya, We Are Tech