Kasaï-Central maintains 268 km of agricultural roads in early 2026

In the Kasaï-Central province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, significant strides have been made in improving rural infrastructure, with the Agricultural Access Roads Office (OVDA) announcing the maintenance of 268 kilometers of agricultural access roads during the first quarter of 2026.

Funded by the National Road Maintenance Fund (FONER), these maintenance works are crucial for enhancing the mobility of rural populations and ensuring that agricultural products can reach markets more efficiently. The interventions have spanned various routes across the territories of Dibaya, Dimbelenge, Kazumba, and Luiza, as well as the hinterland of Kananga.

Farmers are already experiencing the benefits of these improved roads. Gustave Kankonde, who uses the Kanyuka-Kasasa route to transport his harvests, noted a significant improvement in circulation. "This road is now maintained and we can circulate without difficulty," he stated. However, he also emphasized the need for regular upkeep to sustain these gains, adding, "We invite the authorities to ensure its regular maintenance."

According to Michel Mbuyi, the provincial director of OVDA, specific sections like Bunkonde-Dibanda-Kaulu in Dibaya, Katende-Mutombo-Dibwe and Mashala-Kasonga-Mule in Dimbelenge, Bilomba-Tumbu and Ndekesha-Tshisuku in Kazumba, and Luiza-Kabita-Kazeya-Ngadi in Luiza have been repaired. Routes such as Kanyuka-Diboko-Ndumbi and Kasasa-Dilembwe in Kananga's hinterland were also part of the maintenance program.

To ensure the longevity of these rehabilitated infrastructures, OVDA has established local maintenance committees responsible for regular upkeep. The overarching goal is to help open up rural areas in Kasaï-Central, a vital step for agricultural development and market access for local produce.

“

This road is now maintained and we can circulate without difficulty. However, it is already starting to degrade. We invite the authorities to ensure its regular maintenance.