Cement prices in Kindu, capital of the Maniema province, have fallen sharply following the arrival of a new shipment from the Société nationale des chemins de fer du Congo (SNCC). The city had faced several weeks of cement shortages, but the delivery of 530 tons from Ubundu (Tshopo) has helped ease the crisis.

Before the shipment, a 50 kg bag of gray cement was selling for as much as $50 on the local market. Since the boat docked, prices have dropped to around $35 to $36 per bag, representing a nearly 30% decrease. The price reduction is bringing relief to the construction sector in Kindu, which had been under pressure due to high material costs.

According to the Congolese Employers Federation (FEC), this shipment signals positive momentum for economic activity in the city. Raymond Ngadi Tshikunga, director of the SNCC's river-rail operations for Kindu–Maniema, told Radio Okapi that more deliveries are expected in the coming weeks. The vessel will return to Ubundu to transport additional goods.

This logistical operation also marks the reopening of the vital river corridor connecting Kindu to Ubundu, a key supply route for the city. SNCC has announced plans to run cargo rotations every 30 to 40 days, which could help ensure a more stable flow of goods to the area.