The book launch ceremony, organized in Kinshasa, marked the introduction of "L’Autopsie de l’économie congolaise," a work by Dieu-Donné Kasongo that advocates for shared prosperity in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The event drew attention from various sectors, including media, academia, and the private sector. Kasongo's work aims to address the economic challenges facing the country.
Professor Godé Mpoyi emphasized the need for collective responsibility in addressing the country's economic challenges. He highlighted the importance of resolving issues such as energy deficits, lack of investment banks, and brain drain to achieve economic diversification and mastery of value chains. Mpoyi's remarks underscored the significance of collaboration in shaping the country's future.
Dieu-Donné Kasongo explained that his book is a means of educating readers about the Democratic Republic of Congo's natural riches. The 184-page book is part of a larger work, "La richesse naturelle à la richesse partagée," which seeks to understand the contrast between the country's wealth and the poverty experienced by its population. Kasongo's work aims to transform the country's natural wealth into shared prosperity.
Kasongo highlighted the existence of a monetary system and a redistributive fiscal system within the former Kongo Empire. He mentioned the use of "Nzimbu" as a currency in circulation across various territories, including parts of present-day Congo-Brazzaville, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This historical context provides insight into the country's economic development.
The book also explores the Empire Kongo's system of fiscal redistribution, where a percentage of agricultural production was deducted and redistributed to the population, helping to limit extreme poverty. Kasongo's analysis draws on his expertise as an economist, researcher, and analyst of economic and public policy issues in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
As an accomplished author, Kasongo has previously written 12 books and is involved in humanitarian efforts, having held positions in various civil society and humanitarian organizations. His work on "L’Autopsie de l’économie congolaise" contributes to the ongoing conversation on economic development and prosperity in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The launch of "L’Autopsie de l’économie congolaise" has sparked interest among stakeholders, including policymakers, academics, and private sector actors. The book's themes of economic transformation and shared prosperity are expected to resonate with those seeking to address the country's economic challenges.
Key points
- The book "L’Autopsie de l’économie congolaise" by Dieu-Donné Kasongo advocates for shared prosperity in the Democratic Republic of Congo.