Kinshasa, July 23rd, 2025 (CPA).- The Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) transformation strategies have been presented at the high-level political forum on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) held from July 14th to 23rd at the United Nations headquarters in New York (USA), according to a statement consulted on Wednesday by CPA. ‘In his speech on behalf of the Congolese Government at the Political Forum on Sustainable Development Goals held in New York, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister in charge of Planning has reiterated that DRC remains guided by a clear and coherent vision: that of the National Strategic Development Plan (PNSD) and the Government’s Action Programme, which structure public action around the transformation of the country,’ according to the Ministry in charge of Planning’s press release. Indeed, the source has specified that for the past three years, DRC has shown resilient economic growth, with real GDP projected to exceed 5% in 2025, supported by a multisectorial recovery in the areas of mining, agriculture, telecommunications and infrastructure. According to the statement, this growth has been accompanied by an increased mobilisation of national and international resources directed towards the social sectors. ‘Investment in health, education and energy is at the heart of our strategy. The implementation of universal health coverage and free primary education are its pillars,’ has indicated the Deputy Prime Minister in charge of the Plan, Guylain Nyembo, quoted in the press release. In addition, the Deputy Prime Minister’s presentation has highlighted significantly improved social indicators, demonstrating the relevance of the public policies implemented: 85% of births are now assisted by qualified personnel; the infant and child mortality rate fell from 148 to 104 per thousand between 2015 and 2025, a reduction of 42%; nearly 60% of the population has access to a safe source of drinking water; On-going energy projects could double the national electricity supply by 2030, thanks to the boom in private investment in renewable energies. These results come against a sub-regional backdrop marked by security challenges and show that, despite constraints, DRC is making progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The recurring armed conflicts in the east, an obstacle to inclusive growth
Despite the progress, the document has reported, the Deputy Prime Minister has stressed that the development dynamic remains exposed to major internal and external shocks. The recurring armed conflicts in the east of the country, increasing climate vulnerability, uncontrolled migration flows and excessive dependence on raw materials are all obstacles to inclusive growth. The source has also pointed out that the suspension of the Local Development Programme for 145 Territories (PDL-145T) in conflict zones represents a loss of momentum in the fight against spatial inequalities. Similarly, the latest Demographic and Health Survey has revealed that children living in conflict-affected areas are at increased risk of chronic malnutrition and delayed growth. These findings are in line with regional trends in Central Africa, where security instability and territorial imbalances are hindering the achievement of the SDGs. In light of this, Guylain Nyembo has issued a clear appeal to the international community: ‘As in Seville, the Democratic Republic of Congo calls for concerted action that integrates the dimensions of peace, security and the environment, without forgetting the thorny issue of development financing,’ it is read in the statement. DRC, like many developing countries, expects the effective implementation of international commitments, particularly those made under the Seville Commitment and climate finance, which are essential for strengthening the resilience of the states most exposed to the effects of climate change. Through this high-level intervention, DRC has reaffirmed its position as a committed player in multilateralism and a reliable partner in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. It has also reiterated the urgent need to rebalance the development financing system in order to ensure a sustainable, inclusive and peaceful transition for present and future generations. CPA/