DRC faces transport and logistics challenges

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to face high transport costs and logistical difficulties, even though it is located in a geographically advantageous position in Central Africa. These issues were a major focus at the third RDC Transport Infrastructure & Logistics Investment Forum (RIF), which took place in Kinshasa from October 26 to 28.

Forum highlights infrastructure needs

The RIF, organized by the think tank RDC Stratégie, brought together government officials, private sector representatives, and other stakeholders to discuss how to improve infrastructure financing, regional connectivity, and economic integration across the region.

Strategic location needs better access

Bodom Matungulu, president of RDC Stratégie, pointed out that the DRC's geographic position can be a strength if local producers can access markets and companies can effectively process natural resources. He emphasized that "Copper must be able to travel, added value must be able to remain."

Transport reforms and coordination

Jean-Pierre Bemba, the first vice Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, stressed the importance of streamlining administrative procedures, customs operations, and inter-state coordination to develop transport corridors and improve the movement of goods across borders.

National de-isolation program

The DRC’s national de-isolation program includes plans for 22,800 km of new or improved roads and railways. The Minister of Infrastructure and Public Works, John Banza Lunda, announced that the program will focus on key corridors such as Banana, Lobito, and Peace, which will connect to the central corridor leading to the Tanzanian port of Dar es-Salaam.

Funding for Lobito corridor

The Lobito corridor, which links the southern DRC and Zambia to the Angolan port of Lobito, received funding aimed at improving trade. In October 2025, the European Commission announced a 6 million euro (about 6.7 million USD) grant to TradeMark Africa, a non-profit organization working to simplify customs procedures and commercial rules between the DRC and Angola.

Regional transport developments

In other parts of the region, Ethiopian Airlines began connecting northern Mozambique to its African network through Nacala Port. This port, combined with railway lines and a special economic zone, is helping Nacala gain a role in regional logistics and industry.

Nigeria and local craftsmanship supported

In Nigeria, a 30 million USD agreement between the French Development Agency (AFD) and the Bank of Industry (BoI) aims to boost the country's creative industries, including Nollywood, Afrobeats, fashion, and digital content. Meanwhile, in Burkina Faso, SITARAIL launched the "Craft Train" to support artisans from Guiriko during the 18th edition of the International Handicraft Fair of Ouagadougou (SIAO).