Delays in sino-congolese programme roadblocks Congo infrastructure progress
The Sino-Congolese cooperation programme, a flagship initiative to modernize the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s infrastructure, is facing severe setbacks due to prolonged customs clearance delays. These obstacles are directly impeding the progress of critical construction projects across the country.
critical materials stranded at matadi port
Despite the government’s commitment and financial mobilization, the Agence Congolaise des Grands Travaux (ACGT) reports that over 1,477 tons of bitumen, essential for multiple road rehabilitation projects, have been held up at the Port of Matadi since January 2026. An additional 1,650 tons of bitumen destined for the RN1 segment between Mbujimayi and Nguba remain immobilized in the Grand Katanga region. Heavy machinery, including concrete plant components for the Stade d’Idiofa, along with spare parts and construction materials, are also stuck at customs checkpoints, preventing timely deployment to project sites.
government responds with infrastructure inspection caravan
In response to these challenges, the Minister of Infrastructure and Public Works, John Banza, launched an inspection caravan in early June to assess the progress of Sino-Congolese-funded projects. The tour covered multiple provinces, with notable achievements identified, such as the expansion of the Hôpital Général de Référence de Kikwit, which now accommodates 650 beds—up from 150—and includes a morgue capacity increase from 9 to 90 bodies. However, the Minister emphasized that these gains risk being undermined by ongoing delays.
The seasonal dry period, typically ideal for construction, is now exacerbating the situation. Projects like the Rocade Sud-Est bridge in Kinshasa and land clearance activities on the same route, which were progressing well, now face significant setbacks. Key initiatives at risk include:
- The Rocade Sud-Est and Rocade Sud-Ouest in Kinshasa
- The Manterne–Tshela–Singini road
- The Kananga–Kalamba Mbuji highway
- The RN1 segment between Mbujimayi and Nguba
- The Stade d’Idiofa
- The expansion of the Hôpital Général de Référence de Kikwit
stakeholders call for urgent intervention
The Agence de Pilotage, de Coordination et de Suivi des Conventions (APCSC), responsible for overseeing customs clearance for infrastructure projects under this programme, has been urged to take immediate action. The agency serves as the critical interface between project stakeholders and regulatory authorities, ensuring that imported materials benefit from exemptions outlined in Law No. 14/005 of February 11, 2014 and the Avenant No. 5 to the 2024 Cooperation Agreement.
Despite these legal provisions, numerous requests for tax exemptions and customs facilitation remain unaddressed for months. The prolonged inaction threatens not only the completion timelines but also the broader socio-economic benefits these infrastructures are meant to deliver. Without swift resolution, the entire nation stands to lose valuable time and resources, leaving citizens without access to modern facilities.
The Minister stressed that resolving these customs bottlenecks is not just a procedural issue but a national priority. The future of the DRC’s infrastructure development hinges on breaking these logistical barriers and ensuring seamless project execution.
