World Bank to Boost Support for DRC’s Energy and Infrastructure Projects
The World Bank aims to accelerate its support for energy and infrastructure projects to boost growth in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
This was revealed during discussions between DRC Finance Minister Doudou Fwamba and World Bank Operations Director Albert Zeufack on July 10, 2024.
The discussions centered on the development of micro-dam projects and the importance of providing access to energy for the Congolese population.
“We discussed several critical issues, including reforms to help Congo realize its vision, enabling the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo to create the necessary human resources for the country’s development,” Zeufack stated.
He highlighted the significance of free education, a key initiative of President Félix Tshisekedi supported by the World Bank, as well as health projects like the PDSS, which has yielded significant results.
Zeufack also emphasized the importance of infrastructure investment, particularly in energy. “Investment in micro-dams, mini-dams, and the major INGA development program is essential.
Access to electricity is a priority for Congo,” he said. Additionally, Zeufack mentioned the importance of road infrastructure, noting the World Bank’s support for the PACTE project, which aims to construct roads and highways, including the Mbuji-Mayi-Kabinda-Bukavu highway.
The discussions also covered macroeconomic reforms needed to advance Congo’s development agenda and maintain strong, inclusive growth that involves job creation and business climate reforms.
In 2019, the DRC government initiated the Connectivity and Transport Support Project (PACT) with international partners, including the World Bank.
The project aims to restore key road links to enable socio-economic recovery. An advance for the PACT project was set up by the World Bank through the PPA IDA V2970 agreement, signed on December 4, 2019, for $5.5 million.
