DRC: A resilient economy despite the conflict in the east, according to the authorities
Growth maintained in a fragile security climate
While fighting between the Congolese army and the M23 armed group – backed by Rwanda – continues in the provinces of North and South Kivu, the Ministry of Finance of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is reassuring. On Thursday, April 10, 2025, in Kinshasa, Finance Minister Doudou Fwamba presented the country’s macroeconomic indicators, underlining an overall positive economic performance despite the protracted war in the east.
A real but contained budget impact
The occupation of territories by armed groups represents a loss of revenue for public finances. The Minister pointed out that the State has lost 4.5% of its budget revenues due to the instability in the East. This deficit weighs on the government’s ability to carry out certain major investments.
Encouraging stability indicators
Despite these losses, there are several positive signs:
- The exchange rate depreciated very slightly by 0.1% between January and March 2025, compared with 4.2% over the same period in 2024, reflecting relative monetary stability.
- Inflation, another key indicator, is currently stabilized at around 10%, well below the 23% recorded in June 2024, when the new government took office.
This performance is attributed to a combination of measures: a rigorous fiscal policy, credible economic guidelines and greater control of public spending.
The crucial role of the mining sector and the limits of this stability
The Congolese NGO CREFDL (Centre de recherche sur les finances publiques et le développement local) broadly supports the Ministry’s analysis. It believes, however, that macroeconomic stability relies mainly on revenues from the mining sector, the main engine of the Congolese economy.
The organization is also concerned about disbursements made under emergency procedures, and calls for a strengthening of budgetary orthodoxy to ensure more transparent and sustainable management.
Recognized efforts, but still a long way from the people
Despite these positive indicators, the Congolese population has yet to feel the full economic impact of this resilience. Purchasing power remains low and living conditions difficult, particularly in conflict-affected areas.
Minister Doudou Fwamba calls for accelerated investment in production infrastructure, an essential condition for triggering a virtuous circle of inclusive growth.
Conclusion: Fragile stability to be consolidated
The DRC’s economy is more robust than expected in an unstable environment, but this resilience remains precarious. While fiscal discipline and mining revenues have so far cushioned shocks, lasting peace in the east of the country and more equitable resource management will be essential to transform this economic performance into tangible improvements in the daily lives of the Congolese people.
