On October 8, 2026, President Félix Tshisekedi addressed the 12th edition of the "Expo beton RDC" in Kinshasa, where he emphasized the need for a comprehensive urban plan to improve mobility in the capital city. He highlighted that the current state of mobility in Kinshasa requires a more courageous and demanding approach. The President stressed that a well-planned urban organization should incorporate roads, public transportation, urban rail, and the potential of the Congo River.
President Tshisekedi noted that the progress made in Kinshasa should benefit the entire country and that the capital can learn from other provinces. He cited water and electricity as fundamental priorities in the development of Congolese cities. According to him, access to clean water and electricity is crucial for the health, education, and economic activities of citizens. The President also emphasized the importance of sanitation, waste collection, and flood prevention in urban planning.
The President's vision for reconstruction and modernization of infrastructure focuses on grassroots development and territorial connection. He stated that the effort to modernize the country's infrastructure since his inauguration aims to connect territories, support production, and improve living conditions. The President mentioned that investments in roads, airports, energy, and transportation corridors are part of this vision.
President Tshisekedi also highlighted the importance of the program for local development of 145 territories, which aims to bring essential services closer to the population and strengthen development at the grassroots level. He called on all stakeholders, including politicians and economic operators, to ensure coherence in their actions and interventions. According to him, every infrastructure project should be designed to serve a specific purpose in the development of the territory it serves.
The President emphasized that constructing infrastructure is not just about building roads or buildings, but also about preparing the economy and services that will develop around them. He suggested that every major investment should be designed with consideration for energy, water, housing, transportation, and digital connectivity needs. President Tshisekedi expressed his hope that all these actions can be achieved through a rigorous and well-oriented urban policy.
The theme of the 12th edition of the "Expo beton RDC" is "Kinshasa, locomotive of the transformation of cities in the DRC". The President's speech aligns with this theme, emphasizing the need for urban transformation to contribute to the prosperity of inhabitants. He encouraged the private sector and other stakeholders to play a role in this process.
In conclusion, President Tshisekedi's call for comprehensive urban planning in Kinshasa highlights the need for a coordinated approach to address the city's mobility challenges. The President's vision for development at the grassroots level and territorial connection underscores the importance of integrated urban planning in achieving sustainable development in the DRC.
Key points
- President Tshisekedi proposes a comprehensive urban plan for Kinshasa to improve mobility and emphasizes the need for integrated urban planning.
- The President highlights water and electricity as fundamental priorities in the development of Congolese cities.
- The President's vision for reconstruction and modernization of infrastructure focuses on grassroots development and territorial connection.
