The Central Bank of Congo (BCC) has criticized several commercial banks for practices that undermine the use of the national currency. In a statement issued on October 17, 2025, the BCC accused some institutions of “creating long queues at counters under the pretext of liquidity shortages and forcing customers to conduct transactions in foreign currencies, even when they legitimately wish to use the Congolese franc (FC).”

These practices contradict the goals of BCC Governor André Wameso, appointed in July 2025, who has made restoring trust in the franc congolais and reducing dollar dependence his top priorities.

In response, the BCC sent two letters to commercial banks instructing them to immediately replenish cash reserves at the central bank to maintain normal service levels. Banks are also required to keep their branches open until 5 p.m., including weekends for high-traffic locations. The central bank reminded them of their legal obligation to promote the use of the national currency and announced upcoming inspections to verify compliance with liquidity and foreign exchange regulations.

EquityBCDC, the country’s second-largest bank after Rawbank, has already announced it will comply with the BCC’s directives. The bank published a list of branches—Masina Sans Fil, Limete Place C, Matonge, Kintambo, Ngaba, Aviateurs, and its headquarters—that will operate daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout the implementation period of the central bank’s measures.