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The diamond market is going through a major crisis, marked by a prolonged drop in demand, due in particular to the growing popularity of synthetic diamonds. This has led to a significant fall in prices. Several corroborating sources say prices have fallen by over 25% since 2022.
The trend is reflected in the average export price from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). According to official data, it has fallen from $12.5 per carat in 2022 to $9.6 in 2024, a drop of 23.2%.
This situation further complicates the recovery of Société minière de Bakwanga (Miba), which has been in difficulty for over twenty years. The turnaround strategy is based on the potential of the polygon, Miba's historic concession, which still harbors significant diamond deposits.
On April 8, Miba CEO André Kabanda introduced four South African companies- Bond Equipment, Mining Services, Athur Mining, and Consulmet-"interested" in working together to revive the business. These companies are due to submit bids for the supply of modern equipment after visiting the mining infrastructure and sites. However, the continuing fall in prices could dampen investor enthusiasm.
Conditions for a Relaunch
Appointed Chairman of the Board in November 2023, Jean-Charles Okoto undertook a tour of Europe in late 2024 to attract new partners. On this occasion, ASA Resource, a 20% shareholder, pledged to invest $50 million in the relaunch. To date, however, it remains unclear whether this contribution has been made.
While Miba's ambition was to produce 12 million carats by 2025, its activities remain suspended.
Miba's situation reflects that of the sector as a whole. Since 2017, recorded national production has fallen from 17.9 million to 9.2 million carats in 2024.
"Relaunching the sector requires structural reforms to enhance transparency, support artisanal mining, attract industrial investment, and ensure that diamond wealth truly benefits local populations," argues IPIS, a research organization based in Antwerp, in a report published on April 23, 2025.
According to the USGS, the DRC holds around 150 million carats, or 9% of the world's known industrial-grade diamond reserves.
This article was initially published in French by Pierre Mukoko
Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho
On April 25, 2025, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda signed, in Washington, the "declaration of principles" to draw up a draft peace agreement for discussion on May 2.
The text lays down classic foundations: respect for sovereignty, non-interference, an end to support for armed groups, joint security coordination, return of refugees, support for MONUSCO, and promotion of regional economic integration. But an analysis of the speeches delivered at the signing reveals different priorities for different players.
DRC Puts Peace First
Congolese Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, stressed the urgency of the move, saying: "In Goma, Bukavu and beyond, the reality is one of displacement, insecurity and hardship. For us, the urgency of this initiative is not theoretical, it is human."
She also demanded the "immediate, unconditional and verifiable" withdrawal of foreign troops, asserting that, "Peace must come first, then we can build trust, and only then engage in bilateral cooperation."
Rwanda Wants to Address Root Causes
Rwanda's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olivier Nduhungirehe, for his part, insisted on the need to tackle the roots of the conflict: "We must address the root causes to achieve lasting peace," he insisted.
Kigali ties these causes to the "complex history" of the region. Rwanda continues to justify the M23's action by the defense of "Rwandophone populations" in Kivu and considers the Forces démocratiques de libération du Rwanda (FDLR), refugees in eastern DRC since the 1994 Rwandan genocide, as an "existential threat". The country's stated aim is to achieve "a secure region, free from violent ethnic extremism, and well governed."
US Targets Favorable Ecosystem
The United States, officially a "witness" to the process, is aiming beyond mediation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said, "A lasting peace in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo will open the door to greater US and Western citizen investment, which will create an ecosystem conducive to responsible and reliable supply chains for things like critical minerals. It's a win-win."
"We are discussing how to build new regional economic value chains linking our countries, including with US private sector investment," confirmed the Rwandan Minister of Foreign Affairs. Washington is currently negotiating a bilateral agreement with Kinshasa to secure access to strategic minerals.
Absent but Influential Players
Beyond the signatories, other players and interests are weighing in on the process. The United States accuses Chinese companies of taking advantage of the chaos to exploit resources illegally.
The governor of South Kivu, Jean-Jacques Purusi Sadiki, recently spoke of the existence of 1,600 illegal companies, mainly Chinese-owned, feeding a vast smuggling network that also benefits Rwanda. According to his estimates, 67% of this illegal production is destined for the Middle East, while China accounts for another significant share. Europe would remain marginal in these flows.
Countries such as Burundi and Uganda, as well as South Africa, which has already lost several soldiers, will also have to take their military interests into account. Finally, internal political tensions in the DRC further complicate the equation.
Authorities accuse former president Joseph Kabila of supporting the rebellion, adding a domestic political dimension to an already complex crisis.
This article was initially published in French by Georges Auréole Bamba
Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho
On April 24, 2025, Rawbank revealed its new logo and corporate identity in Kinshasa at a ceremony held at the lender’s headquarters. The change is a milestone for the 23-year-old bank.
“The new logo is a symbol in its own right. It is inspired by the Congolese leopard, the embodiment of power and resilience. The yellow claws represent our strength and capacity for innovation. Yellow evokes vitality, optimism, and prosperity, while the black typography embodies the solidity and reliability of our institution,” explained Rawbank Communication Director Naima Issawi.
Rawbank also has a new fresh slogan: “Rawbank. Au-delà d’une banque, l’avenir commence ici.” (Ed.note: Rawbank. More than a bank, the future starts here.”
According to Rawbank CEO, Mustapha Rawji, the rebranding conveys a “clearer, stronger strategic vision”. He also highlighted plans to accelerate digital transformation and expand financial access across the DRC.
The bank aims to deepen its commitment to a greener, more inclusive economy by supporting local talent, women entrepreneurs, and SMEs, while maintaining its core values of proximity and reliability.
"Rawbank is viewed both as a retail and corporate bank and a key driver of SME support and financial inclusion. This diversity is at the heart of our new identity. It's not a rupture, but continuity towards a more modern banking experience closer to the realities of the market," said Étienne Mabunda, the bank's Commercial Director.
Rawbank strengthened its leadership in 2023, with total assets rising to $5.06 billion from $4.15 billion in 2022. Deposits grew 22.36% to $3.94 billion, and loans increased 19.2% to $1.55 billion. Serving over 500,000 customers, Rawbank remains central to the DRC’s financial ecosystem.
This article was initially published in French by Ronsard Luabeya (intern)
Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho
Representatives of the Congolese government and the AFC/M23 rebel group recently signed a preliminary agreement, brokered by Qatar, aiming to halt decades of violence in eastern DRC. The joint declaration was signed in Goma and Kinshasa.
It commits the conflicting sides to an immediate ceasefire and a firm rejection of hate speech and intimidation, calling on local communities to respect these terms. It also sets the stage for constructive dialogue to tackle the root causes of the conflict and outline steps toward lasting peace.
However, the agreement leaves critical details unresolved—there’s no clear timeline or monitoring mechanism to ensure compliance, meaning further negotiations are essential.
The conflict is deeply rooted in ethnic tensions, especially between Tutsi communities and others, with M23 positioning itself as a defender of Tutsi interests. Moreover, control over mineral resources like coltan and gold fuels the fighting, with armed groups and regional actors, notably Rwanda, accused of profiting from the chaos—claims Kigali denies.
Complicating matters, former president Joseph Kabila’s recent arrival in M23-held Goma, where rebels reportedly provide his security, has heightened political tensions. The government has since suspended his party and initiated legal action against him.
Economically, M23’s grip on mining hubs such as Rubaya generates roughly $800,000 monthly from coltan taxes, depriving the government of vital revenue. The conflict has displaced millions, disrupted agriculture and trade, and worsened food insecurity—now affecting 23.4 million people, according to UN data. The turmoil also threatens sectors like education and tourism, with national parks like Virunga caught in the crossfire.
This article was initially published in French by Georges Auréole Bamba
Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho
On April 24, 2025, Rome Resources announced plans to resume drilling at its Bisie North tin project in eastern DRC, after suspending activities on March 14 due to security concerns.
The company aims to begin drilling within 10 days, targeting high-grade tin deposits at depth. This phase is budgeted at $1.6 million, funded from Rome’s $2.7 million cash reserves.
The decision follows the M23 rebel group’s withdrawal from the region and Alphamin Resources’ April 9 announcement to gradually restart production at the nearby Bisie mine, which had also paused in March.
#RMR Drilling Restart at Bisie North
— Rome_Resources (@Rome_Resources) April 24, 2025
🔹Mobilisation to site by 1 May, drilling to resume thereafter
🔹M23 rebel withdrawal enables operations restart across region
🎯Fully funded programme targets higher-grade #Tin at depth
🔹Results from MADD024/026 expected within 2 weeks
Located about 280 km west of Goma near the key mining hub of Walikale-centre, the Bisie site saw rebel occupation between March 19 and April 3 before the Congolese army reclaimed control. Rebels reportedly retreated over 130 km east to Nyabiondo and Masisi.
Political progress adds to optimism: on April 23, the government and M23 declared their intent to agree on a truce, while on April 25, the DRC and Rwanda signed a “declaration of principles” in Washington, signaling a step toward peace.
Rome Resources expects to publish initial resource estimates for its Mont Agoma and Kalayi prospects by the end of May 2025. The market eagerly awaits these results.
This article was initially in French by Pierre Mukoko (Ecofin Agency)
Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho
Gold prices could soar past $4,000 per ounce in 2026, according to a JP Morgan note published April 22, 2025. The American bank attributes its bullish forecast to rising recession risks in the US and ongoing trade tensions between Washington and Beijing.
JP Morgan expects gold to average $3,675/oz by Q4 2025, climbing above $4,000 in the second quarter of 2026. The bank warns prices could break these thresholds even sooner if demand outpaces expectations.
While global prices are set to surge, gold production in the DRC is heading the other way. In 2024, the Kibali mine—DRC’s main industrial gold site—produced 686,000 ounces, down 10% from 763,000 ounces in 2023, marking its lowest output since 2019, when production hit 813,000 ounces.
The artisanal sector is faring even worse: official gold exports plunged 66% in 2024, from 5.18 tonnes to just 1.75 tonnes. The outlook for 2025 remains bleak, with state-owned DRC Gold Trading SA struggling to operate amid persistent security tensions in the east, fueling smuggling and choking off legal exports.
Demand Up
If gold production in the DRC keeps falling, the country could miss out on the price surge. Being one of the world’s major producers, if its output keeps lowering, prices could remain high.
JP Morgan highlights strong demand from investors and central banks, expected to average 710 tonnes per quarter this year..
On April 22, 2025, gold’s spot price broke $3,500 per ounce for the first time, driven by US-China trade tensions and friction between President Trump and the Federal Reserve. Trump’s pressure to cut interest rates is fueling gold’s rise.
Historically, gold prices move in the opposite direction to interest rates. When rates fall, bonds lose appeal and gold’s safe-haven status strengthens, especially amid geopolitical uncertainty.
The dollar’s fall against the euro, hitting a three-year low, further boosts gold’s appeal as a protective asset.
In early April, Goldman Sachs raised its forecast to $3,700 per ounce by end-2025, up from $3,300, and even suggested gold could reach $4,500 in extreme cases.
This article was initially published in French by Pierre Mukoko (Ecofin Agency)
Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho
The project to modernize the Loano Airport in Haut-Katanga’s Lubumbashi officially began on April 18, 2025. Summa Group, a Turkish firm, is running the long-awaited project. Selim Bora, Summa Chairman and CEO, presented the project to President Félix Tshisekedi, who laid the symbolic foundation stone.
“The Congolese government has signed a contract with a specialist firm for this work,” the presidency announced, though details of the contract and the selection process remain undisclosed. In July 2022, Summa had signed two contracts with the state for infrastructure projects, though those did not move forward.
According to Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Jean-Pierre Bemba, the modernization project includes building a new terminal, runway widening, tarmac development, and upgraded navigational aids.
Other well-informed sources added that the terminal will handle up to one million passengers, with a tarmac sized for four wide-body aircraft. The plan also includes a cargo terminal (capacity 5,000 tonnes), maintenance center, storage hangar, wastewater treatment plant, upgraded fire safety systems, and modernized access roads.
Local media report a 20-month timeline, with construction employing about 1,200 workers. The same sources stressed that upon completion, around 600 permanent jobs are expected.
This project is part of a broader strategy to modernize major airports nationwide, including Kinshasa’s N’Djili Airport. Lubumbashi, the DRC’s second-largest city, is a vital hub for mining and trade. Past upgrades in 2015 added a control tower and technical block at Loano.
Provincial authorities hope the new airport will establish Haut-Katanga as a key business, tourism, and transit center.
This article was initially published in French by Pierre Mukoko
Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho
On April 19, 2025, the Congolese government announced a series of decisive measures against former president Joseph Kabila Kabange: suspending his political party (PPRD), seizing his assets, and launching legal proceedings.
The Ministry of Justice accused Kabila of direct involvement in the aggression against the DRC by the Alliance du fleuve Congo (AFC)/M23 rebels, who are backed by Rwanda.
These actions follow reports—and confirmation by Interior Minister Jacquemain Shabani Lukoo—of Kabila’s arrival in Goma from Rwanda. Lukoo described it as “a deliberate choice to return to the country via a town under enemy control, which curiously guarantees his security.”
Back in February, at the Munich Security Conference, President Félix Tshisekedi had already accused Kabila of being “the real sponsor” of the eastern rebellion. His presence in Goma now appears to authorities as further evidence of this claim.
A Complicated Matter
The announced seizure of Joseph Kabila’s assets—and those of “his alleged accomplices”—raises a thorny issue: how to clearly identify which assets to freeze? At the core lies the question of beneficial ownership—uncovering the real beneficiaries behind complex asset structures.
For years, Kabila’s supposed fortune has been under scrutiny. A 2016 Bloomberg investigation revealed a network of over 70 companies tied to his family, spanning sectors in the DRC and abroad, including the US, Panama, Tanzania, and the Pacific tax haven Niue.
In 2021, the Congo Hold-up probe, led by international journalists and NGOs, exposed alleged embezzlement of $138 million through a local bank benefiting the Kabila clan. Documents suggest some Chinese owners of major copper and cobalt mines funneled money to Kabila relatives via this bank.
Back in 2017, the Congo Study Group reported that the Kabila family controlled about 80 companies, 71,000 hectares of farmland, and multiple mining licenses.
Kabila’s circle has consistently denied these claims, calling them “delatory maneuvers” and “unjustified assaults,” particularly after the Congo Hold-up revelations.
Tracking Beneficial Ownership: Progress and Challenges in the DRC
Beneficial ownership identifies the true individuals who control companies beyond formal nominee structures.
Groups like the Tax Justice Network push for public beneficial ownership registers, backed by organizations such as the FACTI Panel and the Economic Commission for Africa.
The DRC has made strides with Law n°22/068 of December 27, 2022, mandating the identification of beneficial owners. Yet, according to the 2022 EITI report, significant hurdles remain. The ministerial decree to establish a national register is still pending. Of 91 extractive firms reporting, only 47 disclosed beneficial ownership—and often incompletely.
The Action Group against Money Laundering (GABAC), in its latest reinforced monitoring report, flags a lack of clear mechanisms ensuring authorities’ access to this data. It highlights “significant shortcomings” in identifying legal entities, underscoring that much work lies ahead.
Big Stakes
The issue of beneficial ownership extends far beyond the Kabila case, touching on deeper systemic governance issues. In a resource-rich region plagued by misappropriation concerns, transparency about true asset owners is crucial for development.
Rising tensions between Félix Tshisekedi and Joseph Kabila give this debate a strong political edge. However, in the long run, only robust legal tools and reliable registers will address illicit enrichment, corruption, and hidden financing effectively.
This article was initially published in French by Georges Auréole Bamba
Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho
This year, Alphamin Resources anticipates an output of 17,500 tons at its Bisie tin mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The figure is down 14.2% compared to the previous forecast of 20,000 tons. The firm issued the revised target in a statement dated April 17.
In the official statement, Alphamin attributed its decision to a “security-related interruption.”
Operations were temporarily halted on March 13 due to the advancing M23 rebel group and their Rwandan allies, raising safety concerns for employees and subcontractors. Production subsequently plummeted by 18.4% in Q1 2025 compared to Q4 2024, dropping from 5,237 to 4,270 tonnes.
Despite the rebels’ proximity, Alphamin resumed processing stockpiled ore on April 15. Mining activities are set to gradually restart this month, with staff and logistics providers—including those handling equipment and tin transport—returning to the site.
However, reaching the revised production goal depends heavily on the security situation. Peace talks between the Congolese government and M23 rebels began in Doha under Qatar’s mediation, but no major progress has yet been reported.
This article was initially published in French by Pierre Mukoko
Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho
Corn prices dropped sharply in the first quarter of 2025 across southeastern DRC, especially in Grand Kasaï, Grand Katanga, and Maniema. In some areas, prices have fallen by half or more.
“Corn usually spikes during the lean season from September to December. We hope to replicate that success, thanks mainly to eased import rules and a boost in local production,” said National Economy Minister Daniel Mukoko Samba on April 14, 2025.
Back in August 2024, the government had rolled out 24 measures to bolster corn supply across the country. The measures targeted corn and corn flour importers, with a focus on cutting or abolishing duties, taxes, and fees.
Some charges were eliminated, while others were reduced by up to 50%, easing corn’s entry into the market and helping lower prices.
Dynamics in Greater Katanga
In Greater Katanga, the price of a 25kg maize bag has dropped from CF100,000 to CF46,000 (ed note: CF stands for Congolese Francs), thanks to revived local production and import support measures.
During a visit to Haut-Katanga on April 16, Minister Mukoko Samba met with some importers to address supply chain challenges. Following the meeting, Africa Bull Logistics Sarl pledged to deploy 100 trucks—each carrying 1,600 bags—to transport 500,000 bags monthly. Additionally, two 800 m² warehouses were secured to ease storage issues.
Dynamics in Greater Kasai
Similar trends are seen in Greater Kasaï provinces. In Mbuji-Mayi (Kasaï Oriental), a 3kg maize measure dropped from CF6,000 to CF3,000, driven by a surge in local production fueled by the Nkwadi agricultural park, backed by provincial and central governments.
In Kananga (Kasaï Central), prices fell from CF7,000 to CF2,500, thanks to the World Bank-supported National Agricultural Development Program (PNDA) boosting the Demba and Mweka zones.
Tshikapa (Kasaï) saw an even steeper decline, with the maize measurette plunging from CF4,500 to just CF1,500.
Increased Supply Eases Prices in Maniema
In Kindu (Maniema), maize supply benefits from train shipments from Kongolo (Tanganyika) via the Société nationale des chemins de fer du Congo (SNCC). This has pushed the price of a 3kg measurette down from CF5,000 to CF2,500.
Despite these gains, the DRC remains heavily reliant on imports. According to August 2024 data from the Minister of the Economy, national maize production stands at about 3 million tonnes annually, far below the 13 million tonnes needed, creating a persistent 10 million tonne shortfall each year.
Ronsard Luabeya (intern)
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On April 16, 2025, Orange Group laid the foundation stone for its future headquarters in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The firm thus officially kicked off the project, which it expects to be done by October 2027.
The eight-story building will cover 10,000 m² and feature an autonomous solar energy system. Located on Avenue des Huileries in Lingwala commune, opposite the Martyrs de la Pentecôte stadium, the headquarters symbolizes Orange’s deep local commitment.
“This project reflects our digital ambition and local roots,” said Orange DRC CEO Ben Cheick Haidara, highlighting confidence in the country’s economic and digital potential despite a challenging business environment.
Minister of Posts, Telecommunications and Digital Affairs Augustin Kibassa Maliba called the headquarters “a major leap forward for the DRC’s technological development,” envisioning a modern, innovative workspace that will benefit all Congolese.
According to the Congolese telecom watchdog, ARPTC, Orange is the nation's second-largest mobile operator, with 18.5 million subscribers. It trails Vodacom's 22.5 million but is ahead of Airtel and Africell.
Global Market Share in Q2 (left) and Q3 (right) of 2024 (Source : Arptc)
With 62.2 million mobile subscribers—reaching a penetration rate of 65.8%—and 32.1 million mobile internet users (33.8% penetration), the DRC’s population of over 100 million marks a market still ripe with untapped potential.
The government’s strong push to make digital transformation a key driver of economic and social growth aligns perfectly with the opportunities Orange sees in the DRC.
The company is well-positioned to lead across multiple sectors, including the booming startup scene, digitalization of public and private services, cloud computing, data storage, and cybersecurity.
Mobile Money Market Share in Q2 (left) and Q3 (right) of 2024 (Soure: ARPTC)
Another key growth driver of Orange in the DRC is Mobile Money, with its penetration rate of 26.7%.
But realizing these ambitions depends heavily on the continuation of government reforms to boost the digital economy. Critical areas include enhancing the regulatory framework, managing frequency spectrum, expanding infrastructure, issuing new licenses, and improving access to mobile devices.
Political and security stability in the country are key to ensuring these investments’ materialization over the long term.
Muriel Edjo, We Are Tech
Washington will continue supporting the Lobito Corridor, a rail and road project linking the Democratic Republic of Congo’s mineral-rich regions to Angola’s Atlantic port. Massad Boulos, U.S. Senior Advisor, said so in a press briefing on April 17, 2025, after visiting the DRC, Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya.
“We are aware that we fully support the Lomito Corridor, for example, and this is a huge project which is extremely important and vital for the economies of not only Congo or the DRC, but also Zambia and Angola, but all other regional countries will benefit from it,” Boulos stated, noting that the U.S. Development Finance Corporation is a major financier, with funding expected soon.
The American official also detailed ongoing discussions with DRC President Félix Tshisekedi’s administration to develop infrastructure on the Congolese side. “We are now discussing with the Congolese Chesikides administration to work on the Congolese side with regards to railways, highways, but also power projects, including dams and hydroelectric projects,” he said. These talks aim to address the DRC’s infrastructure deficits, critical for mining operations and economic growth in a country with over 60% of global cobalt reserves.
The announcement comes as the Trump administration, which took office in January 2025, has reduced budgets for international development aid, raising questions about continued U.S. funding for projects like the Lobito Corridor. No specific funding commitments were detailed in the briefing, leaving uncertainty about the scale of U.S. financial involvement.
The U.S. commitment coincides with its growing role in mediating the conflict in eastern DRC, where the M23 rebel group, allegedly backed by Rwanda, is in a clash with Congolese forces. In this regard, Boulos highlighted progress in recent DRC-M23 talks in Qatar and U.S. efforts to negotiate a peace agreement, alongside discussions for a minerals deal to boost American private sector investment. The deal aims to secure U.S. access to DRC’s critical minerals, though specifics remain under negotiation.
For now, China dominates Infrastructure development projects in the DRC, often through minerals-for-infrastructure agreements. The World Bank, African Development Bank, France’s AFD, and Belgium’s Enabel are the main competitors offsetting Chinese dominance. “With regards to other companies and other players and other countries that are existing and already operating there, it’s none of our business to interfere with what they’re doing. We’re pursuing our own ventures, and we’re facilitating investments of our own companies. And time will tell. I think very soon the Congolese people will realize who their best partners are,” Boulos declared.
The Lobito Corridor is central to the DRC’s economic strategy, particularly for eastern regions like Katanga and North Kivu, where conflict disrupts mineral supply chains. The project aims to streamline cobalt, copper, and tin exports, reducing reliance on southern African routes and boosting trade efficiency. By addressing economic drivers of conflict, improved infrastructure could stabilize mining operations, create jobs, and support peace efforts for the DRC.
Written by Georges Auréoles Bamba
Edited by Ola Schad Akinocho
At its April 11 Council of Ministers meeting, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) adopted a draft decree granting petroleum rights directly to the state-owned Société Nationale des Hydrocarbures du Congo (Sonahydroc). The decree outlines the legal and fiscal framework for this transfer, in line with the 1 August 2015 oil and gas law.
This move is part of the DRC’s renewed strategy to revive exploration and ramp up oil production, aiming to better harness its resource potential. The plan includes “immediately” awarding Sonahydroc petroleum rights for blocks 1 and 2 in the Albertine Graben through service contracts.
Service contracts offer more attractive tax terms than production sharing agreements and avoid signing bonuses, making them a favored tool to attract foreign investors. Once awarded, Sonahydroc will develop these blocks in partnership with local and international companies.
Since July 2022, the DRC has sought partners to exploit 27 oil blocks. After canceling a tender in October 2024, the oil and gas Minister announced a relaunch for early 2025, prioritizing “restricted tenders for strategic blocks.”
However, this direct allocation to Sonahydroc marks a shift toward greater state control, echoing Prime Minister Judith Suminwa’s call for tighter organization of block distribution and a stronger role for the government in the oil sector.
Estimates of DRC’s reserves vary wildly: the presidency cites 22 billion barrels across 27 blocks; other sources suggest around 5 billion barrels; while the CIA World Factbook lists proven reserves at just 180 million barrels.
This article was initially published in French by Ronsard Luabeya (intern)
Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho
Due to the war in the Eastern region, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is missing out on 4.5% of its budget. Finance Minister Doudou Fwamba revealed this on April 9, 2025 during a press conference. The 2025 Finance Act projects revenues of 51,553.6 billion Congolese francs (CF), but this shortfall could reach 2,319.9 billion CF—nearly one billion dollars.
Since January, rebel groups M23/AFC have seized key eastern towns including Goma, Bukavu, Masisi, Minova, and Walikale. Their occupation disrupts public administration and slows regional economic activity.
“Strategies are being developed to close this gap,” Fwamba assured, though he offered no specifics. Meeting the government’s goal to boost internal revenues 30% over 2024 looks doubtful. Customs and excise revenues—expected at 7,769.1 billion CF—are especially hit by blocked trade routes and port shutdowns.
The 2025 Finance Law flags persistent eastern insecurity as a “major risk to public finances”, threatening budget balance, policy funding, and economic stability.
Budget pressures deepen with rising military costs. An unplanned salary doubling for soldiers and police since March forced government cuts, though details remain undisclosed.
This article was initially published in French by Boaz Kabeya (intern)
Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho