DRC Deputy Decries Halt to World Bank-Funded Border Post Construction

The Democratic Republic of Congo faces a frustrating setback as the construction of crucial border posts in Sange and Rubenga has been abruptly halted, despite the withdrawal of M23 rebels from the area. National Deputy Claude Misare Mugomberwa has voiced strong criticism, appealing to the Minister of Foreign Trade to expedite the resumption of these vital infrastructure projects.

These border posts are integral to the "Trade Facilitation and Integration Project in the Great Lakes Region," a significant initiative supported by the World Bank. The halt in construction, occurring shortly after the M23's departure and as Congolese refugees begin returning from Burundi, has been met with "bitterness" by the local population. Deputy Mugomberwa highlighted that the project was already 30% financed and was expected to create over 1,800 jobs, serving as a critical engine for local employment and economic revitalization.

Radio Okapi's inability to reach the World Bank for comment leaves the reasons behind the contract termination unclear. This situation is particularly disheartening for the people of Uvira, who had eagerly awaited the project's progress. The deputy's call for a joint mission to assess the chantier underscores the urgency of resolving this issue and ensuring that development projects, especially those crucial for post-conflict recovery and regional integration, are not derailed by administrative or financial obstacles. The local perspective is one of dashed hopes and a plea for accountability and action to get these essential projects back on track.

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I was alerted by the population of Uvira, who expected the immediate resumption of construction work on the Nyamoma and Rubenga border posts after the withdrawal of the M23. But at a time when the population is rejoicing after the withdrawal of the M23, at a time when our compatriots refugees in Burundi are beginning to return to the country, we learn with bitterness that the World Bank has just terminated the construction contract for only two border posts, two days after the withdrawal of the M23.