The relations between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the African Development Bank (AfDB) date back to the 1970s. Since then, the AfDB has supported various economic and social sectors in the DRC, including infrastructure, energy, and recently, agriculture. This collaboration has played a key role in the modernization of the Congolese economy. [1]

Financial Support for Agricultural Transformation

(The General Manager of the AfDB for Central Africa, Serge N'Guessan, and his deputy Solomane Koné, director of the Bank for the DR Congo)

On February 14, 2024, the AfDB approved a loan of USD 117.9 million for the Governance and Skills Development Support Project in support of the Agricultural Transformation Program (ATP). Mainly funded by the African Development Fund, this project aims to make agriculture a pillar of the Congolese economy, thus diversifying an economy long dominated by the mining sector.[2]

Project Objectives and Expected Impacts

Serge N’Guessan, Director General of the AfDB for Central Africa, stated that this project aims to improve the business environment, strengthen sectoral governance, and enhance workforce quality. The objectives include promoting entrepreneurship in agricultural value chains, attracting foreign investment, and creating decent jobs. The project also aims to improve institutional capacities to better structure agricultural value chains, thereby increasing productivity, reducing rural poverty, and improving food security.[3]

Key Innovations and Infrastructures

The project plans to create a One-Stop Shop for climate-smart agricultural investments, simplifying administrative procedures for investors. The development of the "Made in RDC" label aims to promote local agricultural products in national and international markets. A digital platform will be created to organize and coordinate actors in the agricultural sectors, encouraging public-private partnerships.[4]

Training and Skills Development

Training initiatives for 500 trainers in areas such as entrepreneurship and improved production techniques will be implemented. Two community centers for the development of innovative trades will be built, specializing in sustainable agriculture and climate change adaptation. Additionally, four centers for promoting youth entrepreneurship in agribusiness will offer practical training and personalized support, thus supporting the emergence of a new generation of agricultural leaders.[5]