About two weeks ago, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) presented its financing needs and business opportunities in the digital sector in China. The country plans to implement several major projects.

The Democratic Republic of Congo's (DRC) Minister of Posts, Telecommunications, and Digital Economy, Augustin Kibassa Maliba, is seeking opportunities in the United States to advance the country's digital sector. From Friday, September 20 to Friday, September 27, he is in New York, leveraging his participation in the 79th United Nations General Assembly to meet with key partners at Google’s Manhattan office, as well as with various government and international organizations. The discussions will focus on innovative solutions for digital cooperation.

The Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications, and Digital Economy has stated that the visit will also showcase investment opportunities within the DRC's digital sector. Kibassa Maliba is set to participate in a bilateral meeting between DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Polish President Andrzej Duda at the Polish consulate in New York.

The DRC has made digital transformation a core part of its strategy for economic diversification. The sector is viewed as a key growth driver for the country’s future. Priorities include improving high-speed connectivity across the nation to enhance digital inclusion, transforming public services, and opening the market to international investors offering high-value digital products and services.

According to the GSMA, broadband availability combined with digital technologies could boost agricultural yields by 10.5% to 20% and increase profits by 23% in sub-Saharan Africa. In small and medium-sized enterprises, internet access and digital solutions could enhance labor productivity by 2% to 4%. The DRC stands to benefit from similar growth.

In its national digital plan, the DRC government aims to make digital technology "a lever for integration, good governance, economic growth, and social progress." The country requires expertise and funding to realize this vision, and the discussions and potential agreements formed in New York could significantly contribute to these efforts.

Muriel Edjo