DR Congo

DR Congo is one of the most important partners of the Belgian Development Cooperation. In line with the country’s policy priorities we focus on education, health, economic growth and the reduction of poverty.

Agriculture and rural development

Almost 80% of the population live in rural areas. Agriculture is the principal sector of the economy. Congo aims to re-boost its rural areas by developing modern production entities and by strengthening small businesses.

We support this vision by intervening in family businesses following three axes: first, we aim to improve the volume and quality of farm production; second, we support processing, storage and marketing activities; and third, we help improve access to production areas by rehabilitating rural roads and river ferries.

drone view from a village in South Ubangi

Education

Congo faces the major challenge of developing a professional education and training offer that is relevant and adapted to the needs of society and businesses. The country must meet the aspirations of its youth, which constitutes the major part of the population.

Our support in the education sector focuses on technical and vocational education and training, which is considered a priority domain for the country’s development as it needs a qualified workforce. Special attention is paid to gender equality in our education projects.

woman smiling while working on a construction site

Health

Our health programme, which is deployed in three provinces, aims to improve the population’s physical and financial access to quality health care. This implies not only support to health centres and hospitals, but also support to the management of the health system.

Special attention is paid to providing comprehensive care to victims of sexual violence. We also assist the central Ministry of Health with putting in place a quality medication distribution system; developing sustainable and transparent financing of the sector; and assuring competent medical staff.