Welcome to Congo DRC

By Sudi Am mba
30.03.2023

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a country in central Africa known for its vast natural resources such as minerals, forests, wildlife, waters, diverse culture and historical landmarks.

Its is the second-largest country and the fourth most populous in Africa with a population of over 100 million people. With a rich cultural heritage, home to diverse ethnic groups. The capital city Kinshasa is home to over 15 million estimated people.

The DRC is a presidential democracy, the President is elected by popular vote for a term of five years. 

The country is also known for its vibrant music, dance and art scenes.

This country is rich in copper, cobalt, coltan, diamonds, uranium, lithium, gold, timber….

The official languages include: French used in goverment, administration, education, media…Lingala, Swahili, Kikongo, Tshiluba are the major local languages spoken.

According to UNCTAD’s 2022 World Investment Report, FDI flows into the Democratic Republic of Congo went up from USD 1.6 billion in 2020 to USD 1.8 billion in 2021.

In 2021, The World Bank reported its GDP at $48.4 billion with over 90% of its wealth coming from extractive industry.

The DRC exports to China, USA, India, South Africa, Belgium, France, Germany, Netherlands, the UAE and other African countries such as Zambia, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda.

Other exports products include: oil, timber, coffee, cocoa, rubber.

Despite facing numerous challenges such as political instability, armed conflicts and underdeveloped infrastructure, the DRC is a land of opportunities in various sectors for those seeking to invest in the country.

The government is making progress in improving the business climate by implementing policies to attract foreign investment.

This is a growing economy and home to a range of industries like: mining, agriculture, energy, telecommunications…

Why the DRC is an attractive destination?

  • Tourism: The DRC is home to incredible historical and cultural sites, natural attractions in the world such as Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Garamba National Park, Virunga National Park which is home to the endangered mountain gorillas. The tourism industry offers opportunities for adventure tourism, river cruises, fishing, water sports, wildlife safaris, trekking, gorilla tracking…There are investment opportunities in eco-tourism, hospitality, hotels, restaurants, lodges, tour operators and other tourism related services.
  • Natural resources: The DRC has vast deposits of minerals such as cobalt, copper, coltan, lithium, gold, uranium,…It is the world’s largest producer of cobalt, diamonds, gold. These natural resources provide opportunities for investment in mining, exploration, extraction, processing and export of these products.
  • Real Estate: the DRC offers great opportunities for investment in the real estate market especially in major cities such as Kinshasa and Lubumbashi. As one of the largest and fastest growing economies in Africa, the demand for quality housing and commercial property is growing which makes real estate an attractive investment opportunity.
  • Agriculture: The DRC has a fertile soil and a tropical climate which is suitable for a wide range of crops such as coffee, tea, cocoa, palm oil, rubber…The agricultural sector in the DRC offers opportunities for investment in production, processing and export of these products.
  • Energy: The DRC has significant potential for hydroelectric power with the Congo River, the world’s second-largest river by volume. The development of renewable energy infrastructure in the DRC offers opportunities for investment in the generation, distribution and sale of renewable energy. The country also has significant oil and gas reserves.
  • Infrastructure: The DRC has a significant infrastructure deficit in terms of transportation, energy and telecommunications. There are needs for infrastructure development like roads, bridges, ports, railways, airports, power generation…This presents opportunities for investment in the construction, engineering and energy sectors.
  • Trade: The DRC has a wealth of natural resources including cobalt, copper, diamonds, gold, tin, coltan. These resources are in high demand around the world and present opportunities for trade and investment. The country has  vast agricultural potential with fertile soil and a tropical climate that is suitable for variety of crops. 
 Why Invest in DRC?
 
  • Strategic location: the DRC is located in the heart of Africa, shared borders with nine countries. The DRC is member of the East African Community which opens up a local market of over 283 million people with a combine GDP $305 billion (2021). It’s also has access to the larger African Continential Free Trade Area.
  • Growing consumer market: the DRC offers a large and growing consumer market of over 100 million population, There are opportunities for investment in sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, infrastructure, retail, consumer goods and services to cater to the needs of the local population.
  • Rich natural resources: the DRC is one of the richest countries in the world in terms of natural resources such as copper, cobalt, gold, diamonds, tin, coltan…These resources are in high demand globally and can provide significant investment opportunities in mining exploration and other industries.
  • Economic reforms: The DRC government is implementing economic reforms aimed at improving the business environment and attracting foreign investment. These measures help to simplify business registration, reduce bureaucracy and improve access to finance.
  • Congo DRC is  a member of the AfCFTA, the largest trade bloc in the world with 1.4 billion people, a combined GDP of about $3.4 trillion expected to double by 2050.
  • Investment incentives: tax breaks, customs exemptions and other benefits to attract foreign investment.

Overall, the DRC offers a wealth of investment opportunities in various sectors such as mining, agriculture, infrastructure, tourism…

With its strategic location, large population, rich natural resources and improved investment climate, the DRC has the potential to become a major investment destination in Africa.

It’s worth noting that investments in any field require proper research and due diligence. There are lots opportunities but not without risk. The potential returns on investment may not always be guaranteed.

To also learn about DRC Start-ups ecosystem click here

How to travel to DRC?

Here are the general steps and considerations for traveling to the DRC:

  • Entry Requirements: Check the visa requirements for your nationality. Contact the nearest DRC embassy or consulate to obtain information on visa application procedures, required documents, and any specific entry requirements.
  • Flight: Look for international flights to one of the major airports in the DRC, such as Kinshasa’s N’Djili International Airport, Lubumbashi’s Luano International Airport or Goma International Airport (GOM). Various airlines offer flights to the DRC from major cities around the world.
  • Vaccinations and Health Precautions: Check the recommended vaccinations for travel to the DRC. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory, and other vaccines such as malaria may also be advised. Consult with a healthcare professional or travel clinic before your trip.

  • Travel Insurance: It is recommended to obtain travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations,…

  • Transportation within the DRC: you can use domestic flights, long-distance buses, or private transportation to travel within the country. Domestic flights are available between major cities and certain remote areas. Buses and taxis are common for shorter distances within cities and towns.

  • Safety and Security: The DRC has regions with security concerns due to political instability and occasional armed conflicts. Stay updated on the current situation and follow travel advisories issued by your government or international organizations. Consider hiring a reputable local guide or using a trusted partner for safety.
  • Language: French is the official language of the DRC. Knowledge of French or local languages such as Lingala or Swahili can be helpful for communication.

It’s important to gather up-to-date information on travel requirements, safety guidelines, and local conditions in the DRC before you travel. Consulting with travel agencies, official government websites or contact the nearest DRC embassy or consulate for the most accurate and current information for a safe journey.

ANAPI (Agence Nationale pour la Promotion des Investissements) or National Investment Promotion Agency: one-stop-shop for investors, offering services such as investment promotion, investment facilitation and aftercare support. It’s facilitates contacts with relevant government agencies for your business formation, work permits, visas, licenses, …