Democratic Republic of the Congo faces diplomatic and economic developments

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is navigating significant diplomatic tensions within the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF). Kinshasa has reportedly threatened to withdraw from the institution if Rwanda’s Louise Mushikiwabo is re-elected as leader. This tension stems from UN Security Council resolution 2773, which condemns Rwandan support for the M23 group. The DRC is supporting Juliana Amato Lumumba as a candidate for a “new Francophonie,” while other contenders include Coumba Ba of Mauritania and Dacian Cioloș of Romania.

On the economic front, the DRC has reached a preliminary agreement with the IMF for approximately 771 million USD in additional financing, pending board approval. Furthermore, the country has officially exited the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list following the implementation of 23 reforms to combat money laundering and terrorism financing.

In energy infrastructure, discussions regarding the Grand Inga project continue between the DRC and the United States, focusing on technical and financial coordination. Domestically, the National Assembly has moved forward with the 2025 accountability bill and the elevation of several figures, including Etienne Tshisekedi, to the national pantheon of heroes.