On October 8, 2026, in Kinshasa, President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo launched the 12th edition of ExpoBéton RDC, a major event focused on urbanization, infrastructure, construction, and mobility. During the ceremony, he highlighted the importance of transforming Congolese cities to create new opportunities for residents and contribute to their prosperity. The President emphasized that urban transformation must prioritize the needs of inhabitants, ensuring access to basic services like water, electricity, and housing.
President Tshisekedi outlined the key characteristics of a quality city, including reliable access to water and electricity, secure housing, and clean neighborhoods. He stressed that the future of Congolese cities depends on the decisions made today. The ExpoBéton 2026 event, running from October 7 to 10, brings together various stakeholders from the public and private sectors, including policymakers, experts, economists, construction professionals, and development partners. The event aims to address the challenges of rapid urbanization and find solutions to meet the growing needs of the population.
Jean Bamanisa, the initiator and main organizer of ExpoBéton, explained the theme of this edition: "Kinshasa, locomotive of the transformation of cities in the DRC." The discussions focus on the challenges of urban growth, city planning, infrastructure development, and improving transportation. Through panels and meetings, participants are encouraged to reflect on solutions to accompany the rapid urbanization of the DRC and address the increasing needs of the population in terms of housing, mobility, and basic infrastructure.
The 2026 edition of ExpoBéton highlights the development of structuring infrastructure, with a particular interest in urban mobility, including collective transportation projects and solutions adapted to large agglomerations. The event also serves as a platform for connecting public authorities, investors, and sector professionals to promote partnerships around urban and infrastructure projects. This edition takes place in a context where Kinshasa and other Congolese cities face significant challenges in terms of development, circulation, housing, and access to infrastructure.
President Tshisekedi's emphasis on urban transformation aligns with the needs of the rapidly growing population of Kinshasa and other Congolese cities. The event provides an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss and address the pressing issues related to urbanization, infrastructure, and mobility. By bringing together various actors, ExpoBéton 2026 aims to foster collaboration and find innovative solutions to the challenges facing Congolese cities.
The four-day event features conferences, panels, exhibitions, and meetings dedicated to the urban and infrastructure future of the DRC. The discussions will focus on finding solutions to the challenges of urban growth, city planning, and infrastructure development. The event also aims to promote partnerships between public authorities, investors, and sector professionals to support urban development projects.
ExpoBéton 2026 is a significant event that highlights the importance of urban transformation and development in the DRC. The discussions and outcomes of the event are expected to contribute to the improvement of the living conditions of the population and the sustainable development of Congolese cities. Key points from the event include the need for a comprehensive approach to urban planning, the importance of investing in infrastructure development, and the promotion of partnerships to support urban development projects.
Key points
- President Tshisekedi emphasizes the need for urban transformation to prioritize the needs of inhabitants.
- ExpoBéton 2026 brings together various stakeholders to address the challenges of rapid urbanization.
- The event aims to promote partnerships between public authorities, investors, and sector professionals to support urban development projects.
