Roadshow on Industrialization and Investment Forum in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): A Collaborative Path Toward Economic Growth

Kinshasa, DR Congo – April 15, 2025: The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is embracing new horizons for economic growth through the recent Roadshow on Industrialization and Investment Forum. Held on April 3, 2025, this pivotal event gathered a diverse group of stakeholders, including government officials, international chambers of commerce, financial institutions, and entrepreneurs, to discuss strategies for promoting entrepreneurship and industrial development.

In his keynote speech, Louis Watum Kabamba, Minister of Industry for the DRC, outlined his vision of making the DRC a hub of entrepreneurship and industrial activity. Addressing both challenges, such as infrastructure gaps and an informal business sector, and opportunities in the form of a youthful population and abundant resources, the forum reflected a spirit of determination and optimism.

Highlighting Key Players and Collaborative Efforts

Angola Chamber of Commerce: Mr Vicente Francisco Soares, emphasized strengthening bilateral trade and reducing barriers to cross-border commerce. Efforts to formalize trade between Angola and the DRC were underscored as pivotal steps in deepening economic ties.
Federation of Congolese Enterprises (FEC): This prominent business organization continues to lead discussions on improving the business environment in the DRC by benchmarking with neighbouring countries. The FEC remains committed to championing private-sector contributions to industrialization said Mr Bruno Oudart, general Manager of MIDEMA.
Fonds de Promotion de l’Industrie (FPI): Mr Bertin Tshisekedi, General manager of FPI reaffirmed its critical role in financing industrial projects and promoting innovation. As a key player, it is committed to supporting initiatives that drive economic transformation and job creation.

Action Points from the Forum

Improving the Business Climate: The Ministry of Industry is dedicated to creating a more favourable environment for local and international investments.
Showcasing Viable Projects: An online platform will soon be launched to connect global investors with promising ventures in the DRC.
Strengthening Cross-Border Cooperation: Focused on trade formalization and customs barrier reduction, collaboration with Angola took center stage.
Sectoral Collaboration: Bilateral partnerships and synergies were actively promoted to achieve shared economic goals.

The discussions further highlighted the commitment of financial institutions such as Equity Bank RDC, alongside chambers of commerce like the Global Chamber of Commerce (India), to boosting trade relations and funding industrial projects.

Upcoming Forum International d’Industrialisation The roadmap established in this forum leads to the Forum International d’Industrialisation, to be held in Kinshasa from June 23-26. This event aims to deepen partnerships, spur innovation, and accelerate actionable strategies for economic transformation.

About the Democratic Republic of Congo, The DRC boasts a land area of over 2.3 million square kilometers, abundant natural resources, and a population exceeding 100 million, predominantly young and entrepreneurial. The government, under President Félix Tshisekedi, is driving reforms to position the nation as a dynamic investment destination.

As the forum’s facilitator, KNG Strategy played an instrumental role in organizing preparatory meetings and fostering dialogue among stakeholders. It also took charge of preparations for the upcoming Forum International d’Industrialisation, scheduled for June 23-26.