Goma, the capital of North Kivu, will be one of the first cities in the DR Congo (DRC)to receive smart meters. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to install 100,000 meters nationwide. David Tshilumba, Managing Director of the Régie de Distribution d'Eau (REGIDESO) disclosed the project on October 27. He said the project aims to modernize water services and improve management across the DRC.

"Today we have embraced smart meters. We have an initial order for 100,000 units. Some will be prepaid and others post-paid. The city of Goma will be among the first beneficiaries," Tshilumba said. A successful pilot phase was completed in Kinshasa and Mbuji-Mayi.

Tshilumba explained that the new meters will allow for real-time monitoring of water use, help detect leaks early, and improve billing accuracy. This technology will greatly enhance the REGIDESO’s operations and allow consumers to track their water usage more effectively. It will also improve water distribution and ensure fair billing.

As part of its digital efforts, the REGIDESO launched an online payment system for water bills last year through the Regipaye digital solution.

In a related initiative, at the end of August 2024, Minister of Water Resources Teddy Lwamba launched a project to combat illegal water extraction using a digital solution. This issue affects fair access to water. "The project aims to strengthen control and regulation, ensuring that every citizen has access to quality drinking water," Lwamba said.

Olivier de Souza