eBizguides Cape Verde was produced after a five months stay in Praia and the wonderful regions of Cape Verde.
eBizguides is a whole new concept integrated within the globalisation era.
This guide was made possible thanks to the strong belief and hard work in the Cape Verde of:
I believe that you can make long-term
In Praia:
beneficial investments if you fall in love with
Rachel Holly: An American woman whose smile never faltered.
Hind Fakir: A charming, hard working French woman whose strength and professionalism never faltered.
“I encourage business and leisure readers of this guide to visit us in Cape Verde and see for themselves the abundant business opportunities our country and the region offer.” Jose María Pereira Neves, Prime Minister of Cape Verde
In Madrid:
the country you target.
V E R D E
María Cruz Ferreira Costa: High professional Spanish lady who lead this project, earthquake that fell in love with Cape Verde and was the backbone of the mission!
The concept of eBizguides is quite simple. On one hand, we want to present the country we cover in all its economic diversity, portraying all the different sectors and giving basic facts and information about the TOP companies. And on the other hand, we want to give an overview of the leisure and tourism activities
Pascal Belda: Privileged to publish a book about Cape Verde.
to be enjoyed in the country.
Iria Salgado Mesa: A great Spanish lady whose artistic talent was used to design this guide. And in London: Carlos Aparicio: A hard working Spanish journalist who supervised the editorial of the project making this guide possible.
THE TEAM
need to know to do business and have fun”. I hope you will make it yours when visiting any of the countries in our collection.
Pascal Belda
CAPE VERDE
THE COLLECTION FIND THE COMPLETE COLLECTION AT www.eBizguides.com
María Cruz Ferreira, Rachel Holly & Hind Fakir
BAR CODE Pascal Belda, Tatjana Vetter-Blanckenstein, Nayra Delgado, Iria Salgado & Carlos Aparicio
This is why I created our slogan “All you
C A P E
Tatjana Vetter-Blanckenstein: A great combination of experience and organization to deliver this guide. Nayra Delgado: A great Spanish lady with experience and enthusiasm managing a great team in Cape Verde.
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DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO
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CREDITS It is always good to know who worked hard for this Guide. Many talented people and many wonderful stories have gone into making it. Here is the list of those involved:
PRODUCTION Producer: Pascal Belda Regional Project Director: Nayra Delgado, Vanessa de Sampaio e Melo Local Project Director: Barbara Czartoryska, David Alvarez Associate Production: Brice Guillet, Alejandra Monroy and Antonio de Santiago Editorial Support: Carlos Aparicio Advertising Agency: Divo Director: Kabeya Kazadi Steve Project Manager: Lilyane Ntambu
EDITION Written and edited by: eBizguides Economic sections and sector overviews written by: Deloitte and Bandundu Chamber of Commerce and Industry General Information section written by: eBizguides Tourism & Leisure section written by: eBizguides Art Direction Madrid: Iria Salgado Mesa
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We would like to thank the following people for their collaboration and support: Guillaume Pourboir of the Bandundu Chamber of Commerce and Industry, M Milambo of the Equateur Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ali from restaurant Aldar, Robert Levy, Thoussaint Tshilombo Send Minister of Information and Communications, H.E Jean-Pierre Mutamba Ambassador of the DRC to Belgium We would also like to thank the heads of the following companies for their sponsorship and support and without whom this eBizguide would not have been possible: Afriland First Bank, Afritrans Import Export, SDV Agetraf, Boss Mining S.P.R.L., Restaurant Caf Conc, CAA (Compagnie Africaine d’Aviation), Chemaf S.P.R.L. Cobit-SRM, Congo Oil S.A.R.L., CFAO Motors RDC, Deloitte and Touche Congo S.P.R.L., Divo, Dover Cosmetics Ltd, Emaxon, First Quantum Minerals Ltd, Gecamines (La Générale des Carrières et des Mines), Ghandour Industrie Congo S.P.R.L., Guest House Mwamini, Hertz, Cercle Onatra “Restaurant La Piscine”, Mafricom S.P.R.L., Magenya Protection & Gardiennage, Master Team Consulting, Moneytrans, Rawbank, Renka S.P.R.L., Ruashi Mining S.P.R.L., SEA S.P.R.L., Shalina International Ltd, SNEL (Societe Nationale d’Électricité), Soco DRC, Groupe Soficom, Tigo (Oasis S.P.R.L.), TACS (Trans Air Cargo Service), Trust Merchant Bank S.A.R.L., Vodacom (RDC) S.P.R.L., the province of Bandundu, the province of Bas Congo, the province of Equateur, the province of Katanga
DISCLAIMER While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, this cannot be guaranteed and neither eBizguides nor any related entity shall have any liability to any person or entity who relies on the information contained in this publication. This publication is not a substitute for professional advice or services and it should not be acted on or relied on or used as the basis for any decision or action that may affect you or your business. Any reliance is solely at the user’s risk.
World Investment News Inc Customer Service: Tel: + 34 91 787 38 70, Fax. +34 91 787 38 89 Email: guides.info@ebizguides.com, Website: www.ebizguides.com
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Printed by: China Printing Corporation ISBN: 84-935202-7-6
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eBizguides DRC
How to use this guide The goal of eBizguides is to offer extensive economic and
with the most important business people in the country,
investment information on a country, with a focus on the
we then provide our readers with privileged information
top companies, while offering the best tourism and lei-
and sector analysis, including introductions written by
sure information for your spare time. With this, we
key decision-makers in the sector, such as government
believe that our readers can get fully acquainted with the
ministers.
country, before a long-term investment. You will also find fact files of all the major corporations, This book comprises three major sections: general infor-
outlining their business activities, key projects and
mation, the country’s economy and leisure.
investment opportunities. We consider this section to include some of the most invaluable information for busi-
General Information
ness globetrotters.
Background information on the country is coupled with the main business resources available.
Leisure For you to fall in love with the country, we also showcase
The D.R. Congo Economy
the best spots to visit, essential areas to discover, the top
This section of the book starts off with an in-depth look
hotels and restaurants, and much more.
at the country’s investment and legal framework, and the country’s economy itself. Through personal interviews
Icons eBiz Recommended
Notice
These companies were particular favou-
This indicates that the information is
rites of our team during their stay; this
important and something to take notice
stamp is mostly given to restaurants,
of when planning, or during, your stay.
hotels, and so on. B.eBiz & L.eBiz eBiz Recommended Partner
These are the two mascots of eBizguides.
Our team has been interviewing the heads
B.eBiz is always thinking about the best busi-
of many companies; when they choose to
ness opportunities and L.eBiz is more relaxed
allocate this stamp to a company, it is
and wants to enjoy life. They highlight the
because they themselves have received
pages where you can find business and leisure
reliable service from the company.
information.
Legends Top Companies Proverbs
This is a listing of the top companies that eBizguides
These local phrases will help you to understand the
encountered during their time in the country.
popular culture in the country better. Perhaps you can Blue Boxes
even use them yourself.
This is useful insider information that will help you to assess the country, do business and enjoy your stay.
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Contents Did You Know? ................................................................................................................6 The DRC Fact File ............................................................................................................9 General Information ......................................................................................................11 Business Resources ........................................................................................................25
The DRC Economy ..............................................................................41 to 242 Investment & Legal Frameworks ..................................................................................41 The DRC Economy ........................................................................................................55 Provinces..................................................................................................................63 Bandundu ......................................................................................................................64 Bas-Congo ......................................................................................................................68 Equateur........................................................................................................................72 Kinshasa ........................................................................................................................76 Kasaï ..............................................................................................................................78 Katanga..........................................................................................................................81 Maniema........................................................................................................................88 Kivu ..............................................................................................................................90 Province Orientale ......................................................................................................94 Agriculture ..............................................................................................................97 Energy ....................................................................................................................109 Finance ..................................................................................................................125 Industry & Trade ..................................................................................................141 Mining & Oil ..........................................................................................................155 Public Services ......................................................................................................181 Public Works ..........................................................................................................191 Tourism ................................................................................................................199 Transport & Communications ..............................................................................213 Address Book ........................................................................................................229
Leisure ........................................................................................245 to 275 Travel Agencies ..........................................................................................273 Basic Vocabulary....................................................................................................276 Top 100 Companies ................................................................................................277 Company Index ......................................................................................................278
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Did You Know? • The DRC is located in the physical centre of Africa. • The DRC is the third-largest country in Africa with a surface area at 905,351 square miles (2,345,000 square km), which represents almost five times that of France and 80 times that of Belgium. • Since 30th June 1960, when it attained independence, the DRC has experienced a long-standing political instability before the setting up of new institutions following the democratic elections. • The Inga dam, one of the greatest economic achievements in the country, is among the biggest hydroelectrical dams of the world with a total finished production output of 100,000MW (at Inga I, II, III and Grand Inga sites), enough for catering, at a lower price, for the domestic needs in addition to those of the whole African continent, the Middle East and southern Europe. • The country has plenty of reserves of the main mineral resources necessary for the world’s advanced technology industries such as copper, cobalt, columbium tantalite (coltan), gold, industrial and jewellery diamonds, uranium, zinc, etc. • The uranium ores that served as raw materials for making the first atomic bomb originated from the mines in the Katanga Province of the DRC. • The DRC has a long history as a mining country. It has also been a producer and exporter of oil since 1975 with a production output of between 25,000 and 30,000 barrels per day; its production is set to increase thanks to new rich oilfields recently discovered along the western coast, in Equateur Province and in eastern DRC. • The DRC has hydrocarbon gas reserves estimated at 50 billion cubic metres capacity within Kivu Lake; so far, the DRC is the only place where such underwater gas has been found. • The DRC enjoys ample water resources, with a drainage basin which spreads over 3,700,000 sq. km, including the Congo River, which is 4,700km long (2,920 miles) with a discharge at the river mouth of 1,589,178 cubic feet per second (45,000 cubic metres per second). The DRC is one of the world’s most water-rich territories and has enough reserves to supply water to the Sahelian countries. • As far as forestry resources are concerned, the Congo basins, together with the Amazon, constitute a vital resource for the purpose of safeguarding the world’s ecosystems. • Congolese music is one of its most valued export products. The DRC is one of the greatest centres of modern African music, both secular and religious, the renown of which has reached far beyond the continental borders with longstanding bands led by famous musicians such as Luambo Franco (TP/OK Jazz), Joseph Kabasele Jeff (African Jazz), Kasanda Nico (African Fiesta Sukisa), Tabu Ley Rochereau (African Fiesta), Abeti Masikini, Mpongo Love, Mbiliya Bel, Tshiala Muana, and some newer bands such as those led by Nioka Longo, Koffi Olomide, JB Mpiana, Werrason, Emeneya, Papa Wemba etc. • In tourism, the DRC offers many enjoyable opportunities at its various sites of interest, along with its pleasant climate, the fauna and flora. Some animal species are found in the DRC and nowhere else – okapis, white rhinoceros and mountain gorillas. • The culture of the DRC reflects a diversity of artistic heritage, including ancient works of art preserved in Tervuren Museum in Belgium, in the National Museum in DRC at Kinshasa/Ngaliema, and some works of art held by individuals throughout the country. The above-mentioned museums also hold small objects of the Kongo, Pende, Kuba, Lunda, Luba, Songe, Yaka, Mongo and Ngbandi peoples. These include objects carved out of earth, garments used in ancestral swearing-in ceremonies, wedding ceremonies or funerals of high-ranking clan officials, mysterious objects used by traditional healers or keepers of ancestral knowledge etc. • Export of works of art is conditional upon obtaining a licence from the Ministry of Culture and Arts. • The country has famous artists who have successfully exhibited their talents in art shows in DRC, Switzerland, Belgium and France, etc. Such as Maître Ndamvu, Liyolo, Mavinga and Chéri Samba.
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Did You Know? • As far as sports are concerned, the DRC is one of those African countries where football is adulated. Both African Cups have been won by the Congolese national football team ‘the Leopards’, in 1968 in Ethiopia and in 1974 in Egypt. Exceptionally, the DRC’s team was the only sub-Saharan team to partake in the Football World Cup hosted in Germany in 1974. The DRC’s national football team, which has included talented and famous players such as Saio Mokili, Pierre Kalala, Kibonge Gento, Kakoko, Adelar Mayanga, Ndaye Mutumbula, Robert Kazadi and Buanga, dominated the African football scene for several years from 1968 to 1975. • The DRC is among the first African countries to transfer its players to European football teams, starting in the 1960s with Mokuna, who was nicknamed ‘Trouet’, and who earned renown for his powerful shots capable of piercing the opponent team’s net. • In recent years, talented players such as Muntubile Santos, Kabongo Eugène, Shabani Nonda, Claude Makelele, Emile Mpenza and Jérôme MBO etc. are among the African football professionals who have proven successful within the European championship. The heart of Africa: Congo
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eBizguides DRC
The Democratic Republic of Congo Fact File Land area :
2,345,000 square km
Population density :
26.4 inhabitants per square km
Climate :
Tropical climate with two seasons: the rainy and dry seasons
Population :
62,000,000 inhabitants
Population growth rate :
2.8% per annum
Capital
Kinshasa is a city of around 6 million people
Main urban cities :
Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, Kisangani, Kananga, Matadi, Goma, Bukavu, Mbuji Mayi, Kindu, Boma, Muanda, Kikwit, Butembo, Tshikapa, Bandundu, Ilebo, Kolwezi, Likasi, Kalemie, Kamina, Uvira, Gemena, Zongo and Gbadolite
Main seaports :
Matadi, Boma, Banana
Main river ports and lake ports : Kinshasa, Kisangani, Mbandaka, Ilebo, Kindu, Ubundu, Kalemie, Kalundu (Uvira) International airports :
Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, Kisangani, Kananga, Goma, Gbadolite
Lowest point :
0 metres at the Atlantic ocean
Highest point :
Mount Rwenzori (5,119 metres) lying between DRC and Uganda
Annual income per capita : Governing system :
US $100 Unitarian republic strongly decentralized with parliamentary regime
Administrative organization :
12 provinces each run by a Governor (with an elected provincial parliament )
Official language :
French
Main national languages :
Some hundreds of dialects and vernaculars along with Swahili, Lingala, Kikongo and Tshiluba as the major spoken languages
Fiscal year :
Calendar year
Time zone :
GMT+1 in western DRC and GMT+2 in eastern DRC
Currency :
Congolese Democratic Franc (CDF) 1 US $= 490 CDF / 1 Euro = 635 CDF (2007)
Exchange system :
Floating exchange regime
International dialling code :
+243
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G E N E R A L
I N F O R M A T I O N
The rock on which we crush pepper is not a seat (think before acting) Libanga oyo batutelaka pilipili bafandelaka yango te Congolese saying
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G E N E R A L I N F O R M AT I O N
eBizguides DRC
INTRODUCTION
Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1960, later on it was named Congo Kinshasa and the Republic of Zaire
It takes a historical look at one and a half centuries to
between 1965 and 1997, and ultimately the Democratic
best understand the current situation in the DRC.
Republic of Congo from May 1997 onwards.
HISTORY
Before the arrival of European people in DRC, its political
Despite being one of the biggest countries in Africa with
doms and empires, among which the most well known
its extensive land area (2,345,000 sq. km), DRC is not
are: the Kongo Kingdom, the Luba Empire, the Lele and
organization consisted of ethnically or tribally based king-
particularly well known, largely because its name has
Kuba Communities, the Bolia Groups, the Azande
been subject to change from the day of its discovery by
Kingdom, the Mangbetu Kingdom, the Yira, Hunde and
the West in the nineteenth century by the explorers David
Shi Groups, etc.
Livingstone and Henry Morton Stanley. The latter, who worked for King Leopold II, contributed to the creation of
The arrival of Europeans goes as far back as 1482 with
the Association Internationale du Congo (AIC), which
Diego Cão arriving at the mouth of the Congo River.
later became the Etat Indépendant du Congo (EIC) being
Famously, the Scottish missionary David Livingstone
under the rule of the Belgian king.
explored there in the 1870s.
By way of trade-off and in order to quell frequent diplo-
However, the arrival of Stanley in 1877 marked the tur-
matic incidents over which country the Congo belonged
ning point in the colonization process, which lasted 80
to, an international conference was held in Berlin from
years until independence in 1960, when Mr Joseph
15th November 1884 to 26th February 1885, involving
Kasavubu came into power as the President of the
the United States together with 13 European countries,
Republic and Patrice Emery Lumumba as Prime Minister.
where participants decided on liberty to sail on the Niger River and trade freedom and free access across the
The country has faced several attempted secessions and
Congo basin. It is also within the framework of this con-
rebellions, notably those that took place in the rich pro-
ference that King Leopold II recognized AIC as a sove-
vinces of Katanga and Kasaï, during which the country
reign state.
experienced lengthy periods of political instability, espe-
On 30th April 1885 King Leopold II was given approval by
Minister Patrice Emery Lumumba was murdered on 17th
the Belgian parliament to officially become the sovereign
January 1961 in Lubumbashi, then Elisabethville.
cially within the first Republic (1960–1965), as Prime
ruler of the State of the Congo, which he named Etat Indépendant du Congo (Independent State of The Congo) as from 1st July 1885.
Through a military coup in November 1965, a unique party regime emerged under the rule of President Joseph Desiré Mobutu, whose reign ended in May 1997 through
During the period between 1885 and 1908 the Etat
the force of circumstance, whereupon Laurent Desiré
Indépendant du Congo was developed as the personal pro-
Kabila came into power.
perty of the Belgian King. However, failing to raise enough financial and technical means, the King could not go on
The rule of President Kabila coincided with a new era of
unaided; this resulted in the annexation of the EIC into
political unrest, which in turn ended with his assassina-
Belgium and it being thenceforth vested with a legal status
tion on 16th January 2001. In the wake of those tragic
and considered as separate property from the King’s.
events, the DRC is still experiencing bloody wars and dis-
Initially, when it attained independence, the country was
Uganda, resulting in an estimated 3,000,000 deaths.
putes with its neighbouring countries of Rwanda and
named the Belgian Congo, then it was named the
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The DRC has somewhat recovered stability and in 2007
(CEPGL), the Common Market for Eastern and Southern
the Sun City Agreements resulted in a new political order
Africa (COMESA) and the Southern African Development
involving all parties, which paved the way for the organi-
Community (SADEC). It is also in partnership with the
zation of democratic elections and resulted in the settling
European Union as a member state of the African,
of political institutions headed by President Joseph Kabila
Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (ACP).
Kabange, who was elected (2006) for a five-year term.
NATIONAL SYMBOLS The DRC is a member State of the Organisation de l’UnitÊ Africaine (OUA) (Organization of African Unity OAU),
THE NATIONAL FLAG
which includes 30 member states that unanimously adopted the constitution charter of the OAU in 1963 at
In the national flag the blue symbolizes peace, the yellow
Addis Ababa.
riches and the red the blood of the independence martyrs. The star symbolizes unity of the country in diver-
It is also a State member of the United Nations (UN), the
sity.
Community of Central Africa States (CEAC), the Economic Community of the Great Lakes Countries The national flag
G E N E R A L I N F O R M AT I O N
eBizguides DRC
THE COAT OF ARMS
THE GOVERNMENT THE EXECUTIVE ARMS OF THE GOVERNMENT Since adoption by way of referendum of the Constitution in 2006, the DRC has become a strongly decentralized republic with the following Executive arms:
• The Head of State, elected by universal suffrage for a five-year term renewable once. • The Government, headed by the Prime Minister, who is accountable to Parliament. The Government is composed of State Ministers, Ministers and Deputy Ministers appointed by the President of the Republic upon recomThe coat of arms of DRC, which was adopted on 18th
mendation of the Prime Minister.
February 2006 through the promulgation of the Constitution of the Third Republic, consists of a leopard’s
THE PARLIAMENT
head in the centre, an elephant’s ivory horn and a spear founded on a rock at either side of the leopard’s head.
The Parliament is composed of two Houses: a 500-seat
All around the coat of arms is inscribed the motto of the
House of Representatives (the National Assembly popularly
Congo: Justice, Peace and Labour.
elected by direct universal suffrage) and the 108-seat Senate (elected for a five-year term). The two Houses are This ex-colonial home is today the Prime Minister's Office
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w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
each headed by a democratically elected board. Under the
routed to the Government for integration into the overall
Constitution, the Chairman of the Senate is the next in the
budget of the Government. The First President of the
hierarchy after the country’s Head of State.
Supreme Court of Appeal is the official with competence
THE JUDICIARY
the Permanent Secretariat of the Magistracy.
The Judiciary is independent from the Legislature and the
For the purpose of enhanced effectiveness, courts and
Executive. Its powers are ensured by courts and tribunals,
tribunals are divided into three jurisdictions:
to issue payments in respect of the budget, assisted by
which include: the Constitutional Court, the Supreme Court of Appeal, the State Council, the High Military
• Jurisdictions derived from the judiciary order under the
Court, the civil and military courts and tribunals, as well
supervision of the Supreme Court of Appeal;
as the public prosecutors.
• Jurisdictions derived from an administrative order
Adjudication in disputes and claims is exercised over the
• The Constitutional Court.
headed by the State Council; and
entire national territory on behalf of the citizens and the verdicts and judgments thereon, as well as orders from
GEOGRAPHY
courts and tribunals, are rendered and carried out on behalf of the Head of State. No extra or exceptional tri-
LOCATION
bunals are permitted. However, the law is vested with The DRC is in the heart of Africa, and lies astride the
powers to set up specialized jurisdictions.
Equator line; it stretches between latitude 5 degrees The Judiciary has the support of a budget, which is deve-
north and 13 degrees south and between longitude 12
loped by the Superior Council of the magistracy and
degrees east and 31 degrees east.
The proud Palais de Justice stands firm
15
The vast terrain of the DRC encompasses a multitude of landscapes
With a surface area of 2,345,000 sq. km, the DRC is the
almost one third of the total land area, with an average
third-largest country in Africa behind Algeria and Sudan.
altitude of some 500 metres.
Its longest distances are 2,100km from east to west, and 2,110km from north to south.
All around the Central Basin lie peripheral plateaus,
It is bordered:
altitudes reaching more than 1,000 metres. Among the
which extend to the eastern highlands with increasing
• to the west by Enclave de Cabinda in Angola and the
highest peaks are Mount Crystal on the downstream side
People’s Republic of Congo (Brazzaville);
of Kinshasa and Mount Mitumba in south-eastern
• to the north by Central African Republic and Sudan;
Katanga.
• to the east by Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania and Zambia;
Eastern DRC is dominated by volcanic highlands and
• to the south by Angola.
lakes such as Idi Amin Lake, Mobutu Lake, Kivu Lake,
The southern boundary is formed by an Atlantic coastline
still active, such as Nyrangongo in southern Rwenzori
of 46km.
(5,119m) and Nyamulagira.
TOPOGRAPHY
NATURAL RESOURCES
DRC has a great diversity of landscapes with the Central
With its favourable geophysical, water and climatic con-
Basin surrounded by high plateaus and uplands in the
ditions, the DRC is well suited to agriculture – 70% of the
east. The Central Basin is a vast lowland area covering
population is involved in farming activities. These condi-
Tanganyika Lake and Moero Lake. Some volcanoes are
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w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
tions allow the cultivation of varied crops: • Subsistence crops: maize, cassava, rice, beans, groundnuts, vinca, voandzou, soya beans, green vegetables, fruits (orange, mango, safou, kola, paw-paw, mangoustan, strawberry, pineapple, guava, banana, passion fruit, custard apple), sweet potatoes, yams and potatoes etc.; • Commercial crops: coffee, cocoa, tea, hevea; • Medicinal plants: quinquina, rauwolfia, digitalis, kolatier, hydnocarpus, datura, strophanthus, camphor, ricinus (castor oil), eucalyptus, citronella, Calabar bean, strychnos, vinca, derris, etc.; • Farming: cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry, etc.; • Forestry: production of lumber.
In addition to its agricultural resources, the country has several minerals and ores, the main ones being: copper, cobalt, uranium, pewter, diamond, gold, Colombo tantalite (coltan), oil, bituminous schist, phosphate, manganese, bauxite, iron, etc.
DRC has animals indigenous only to its terrain, like the Bonobo monkey
Many species are becoming extinct. We can make a difference. Be active
and Okapi!
CLIMATE AND WATER
VEGETATION
The climate pattern is predominantly tropical. While the More than one third of the land area is covered by a vast
Central Basin is showered with more than 2,000mm ave-
forest abounding in rich and varied species of plants and
rage rainfall, the south-eastern part is subject to a dry
animals. The remainder of the land area is made up of
season occurring over six to seven months. Average tem-
savannah studded with bushy forests and sparse forests.
peratures are lower than 27 degrees Celsius.
The soil is varied in both nature and fertility and is made
The water resources are mostly dominated by the Congo
up of:
River, which has an average flow at mouth of 45,000
• Alluvial and co-alluvial layers on chalky schists in the
cubic km per second. Accordingly, it has lots of tributa-
cataracts and in southern Kasai;
ries, the navigable parts of which amount to 14,500km
• Reddish soils over the Uele plateaus and in the Ubangi
taken as a whole; this enables the sailing of ferry-boats
district;
of capacity between 150 and 350 tonnes, and there are
• Chalky soils in the Central Basin with medium fertility;
2,185km for ferry-boats of 800 tonnes and more.
Rudimentary soils on the basic rocks in Mayombe and in
PEOPLE AND LANGUAGES
Ituri; • Sandy desert-like soils in the Kalahari covering the Kwango region and a portion of the southern plateau;
The Congolese community is made up of 450 tribes
Recent soils in the valleys and volcanic ashes in eastern
found within the five big ethnic groups: Bantu,
areas, which are the most rich soils of the DRC.
Sudanese, Pygmy, Nilotic and Hamite.
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G E N E R A L I N F O R M AT I O N
eBizguides DRC
DRC is a multilingual country with almost 250 dialects
Catholicism, Protestantism, Islam and Kimbanguism, as
but the main spoken languages, in addition to the official
well as revival churches.
language (French), are Kikongo, Lingala, Tshiluba and Swahili.
The DRC also counts Jewish communities. At the begin-
Every ethnic group has distinct ways and customs of its
arrived. They came from East Europe (Romania and
ning of the last century, in 1907, the first Jewish families
own. Each group is subdivided into clans under the
Poland, essentially), South Africa and the region of Israel.
authority of the chief, particularly in relation to manage-
With the World War I and II, Eastern and Southern
ment of affairs and concerning land property of the clan.
European Jews took refuge in DRC. Before the DRC’s independence they were more than 2.500, at the
Before the influence of European civilization, ethnic
moment only 320 Jews are living in the country mostly in
groups were socially and politically organized as king-
the region of Lubumbashi and in Kinshasa. This fall of
doms and empires. Nowadays, some of them still coexist
population coincides with the Belgians leaving in 1960.
alongside modern administrative structures. This is typical of the Kuba Empire, found in the province of Kasai
Since some years ago, the country experienced an unpre-
Occidental and which is governed by King Nimi Kwete
cedented spiritual revival characterized by the blossoming
Mbokashanga, the Luba Empire in the province of
of several movements advocating Christianity or other
Katanga and some successors of the Luba Empire. These
philosophical religious or mystic religious doctrines.
have survived with modern adaptations as administration management structures of the populations under the res-
While maintaining freedom of expression, the State has
ponsibility of the traditional authorities.
subjected the exercise of religious activities in DRC to
RELIGION
ment of fees.
prior authorization by the Ministry of Justice upon pay-
The DRC can be described as a secular country with
Prior to obtaining authorization for operating as a
several religions and religious movements, including
church, assemblies or communities should have available
Catholicism is the premier religion in the DRC
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
appropriate documentation evidencing compliance with
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
legal and regulatory provisions governing charities and
New Ye ar’ s Da y Independence Martyrs’ Day Independence Heroes’ Day Labour Day Liberation da y Independence Feast Parents’ Day Christmas Da y
non-profitmaking organizations (Associations Sans But Lucratif/ASBL).
The Kimbaguist community church, which was founded in 1921 by Simon Kimbangu, is one of the church groups that has developed locally in the DRC.
1st January 4th January 16th and 17th January 1st May 17th May 30th June 1st August 25th December
KIMBANGUISM In most of the cases, if a holiday Among local church groups there is the Eglise de Jésus
falls on a Sunday, the public holiday
Christ sur la Terre par le Prophète Simon Kimbangu
will be postponed to Monday.
(EJCSK) or The Church of Jesus Christ on Earth for the Prophet Simon Kimbangu, whose mission is to perpe-
WORKING HOURS
tuate the evangelism work undertaken by Prophet Simon Kimbangu in colonial times. It is undoubtedly the church
The DRC has a five-day working week. Working hours in
with most followers and influence throughout the DRC
the public and private sectors are from 0800 to 1600
and beyond its frontiers (Angola, Congo-Brazzaville etc.).
Monday to Friday. Some businesses and private companies such as breweries work on Saturdays.
Founded on 6th April 1921, its social purpose is aimed at restoring humankind to its original state via the gospel of
The working hours may sometimes affect Muslims since
Jesus Christ.
they may wish to stop their activities to attend the mosque.
For a long time it faced resistance and persecution from
School hours are from 0700 to 1300 Monday to
the colonial rule, mainly because its ideologies were con-
Saturday. In some schools a second session is organized
sidered contrary to the established order. Its founder,
in the afternoon as there are insufficient facilities for the
Simon Kimbangu, was arrested and taken to a place
number of young people in need of education.
2,000km away and jailed in Katanga, where he died after performing several miracles.
MONEY MATTERS
The Kimbanguist Church was officially recognized in
CURRENCY
December 1960 and since then has developed to the extent that it is now reckoned among the largest reli-
The Congolese Franc (CDF) is the legal currency in the
gious movements in the DRC, with Nkamba as its holy
DRC. Banknote denominations are CDF 5, 10, 20, 50,
place, where the biggest temple of Church is built. It is at
100, 200 and 500.
this place, which is 300km from the capital and which is one of the tourist sites in the Province of Bas-Congo,
Settlement in foreign currencies such as US Dollars and
where a mausoleum was built in remembrance of
Euros is allowed.
Prophet Simon Kimbangu. USD can commonly be used all Kimbanguism has spread over all continents and
over the DRC, but despite the con-
currently has 17 million followers.
dition of the Congolese Francs, Dollars must be in absolute perfect condition, or will not be accepted…
19
G E N E R A L I N F O R M AT I O N
eBizguides DRC
FOREIGN CURRENCIES
Union, Moneytrans, Moneygram and Mister Cash – which have counters in the main commercial banks.
Foreigners are not prohibited from holding foreign currencies provided that they make a declaration upon
Visitors are advised to refer to rates published by the
arrival.
Central Bank before they engage in any exchange trans-
The DRC applies a floating exchange regime where the
avoid currency swindlers.
actions and to use foreign exchange bureaus in order to
rate of exchange of the local currency into the main freely convertible currencies (USD, Euro) is reached
CREDIT CARDS
depending on market circumstances. Credit cards are not usually used in the DRC. However, On a daily basis, the Central Bank of Congo publishes
they are accepted at banks such as Banque Commerciale
reference exchange rates based on interbank fixing data.
du Congo (BCDC), Procredit Bank, Raw Bank, Trust
Exchange operations may be performed via banks,
Merchant Bank (TMB), Citybank, Stanbic, BIC, Banque
exchange bureaus, foreign exchange brokers or public
Congolaise and BIAC as well as big hotels such as Grand
moneychangers. Exchange rates are published on a daily
Hotel Kinshasa (former Intercontinental) and Memling.
basis, and are subject to bargaining. Beware that credit cards cannot be Visitors may transfer money through E-money transfer agencies that operate throughout the country – Western Be ready to bargain!
20
used everywhere
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
BEFORE AND AFTER YOU ARRIVE HEALTH AND SAFETY Before you arrive Visitors must comply with immigration and health formalities, including having a valid passport, an entry visa and a valid international vaccination card against cholera and yellow fever.
On arrival Entry into the DRC may be by air, sea, railway or road. Visitors planning to arrive by road should be aware that immigration and customs formalities are completed at border points. Those arriving by sea may enter via either
Don't leave home without it!!!!!
Boma or Matadi, located respectively 420km and 366km from Kinshasa, from where they may continue to the capital by air from Tshimpi airport, or by road or railway.
If consulting with a doctor proves necessary, visitors can use the public or private hospital centres such as Cliniques Universitaires, Clinique Ngaliema, Centre
For air travellers, entry is via one of the international air-
Médical de Kinshasa (CMK), Centre Hospitalier Nganda,
ports – Ndjili in Kinshasa, Luano in Lubumbashi, Bangoka
Polyclinique Ngaliema Centre, Clinique LELO, etc.
in Kisangani, Goma in Nord Kivu and Moanda in Gbadolite.
Fees for treatment at medical centres must be paid in cash. These hospital centres do not allow payment by
Upon arrival, visitors must have a passport bearing a valid
cheque or credit card.
entry visa and make formal notification of their assets held in foreign currencies. The local currency, the Congolese Franc (CDF), cannot be exported or imported.
E mergency calls The Congolese National Police authorities have made it possible for a permanent call system in case of danger or
Visitors are strongly recommended to book accommoda-
emergency. Visitors can dial 199 to seek help from the
tion and transport before arrival.
Police d’intervention rapide (PIR) (Emergency Police) based at Echangeur at Limete municipality.
Health services It is advised that visitors obtain advice on the current
During their stay in the DRC investors may get assistance
diseases and precautions to be taken. It is particularly
from the General Director of the Agence Nationale de
recommended to take precautions against malaria,
Promotion des Investissements (National Agency for the
typhus and other tropical diseases caused by a poor
Promotion of Investment/ANAPI), or the Deputy
hygienic environment.
Administrator of the Fédération des Entreprises du Congo (The Federation of Congolese Companies/(FEC)):
In DRC legislation regarding pharmaceutical products is less restrictive and purchase of drugs is not officially
• General Director of ANAPI: +243-816996548
regulated and does not need a doctor’s prescription.
+243-0999925026
21
G E N E R A L I N F O R M AT I O N
eBizguides DRC
• Deputy Administrator of FEC: +243-818959001 • Secretary General of FEC: +243-818114335
Foreign currencies should be declared at entry. Goods and assets brought for the purpose of sale are subject to
Although prices may seem steep,
customs duties dischargeable at the Customs Office
remember
(Office des Douanes et Accises/OFIDA).
you're
covered
on
2,345,000 Km sq! On leaving the DRC, visitors may freely export souvenirs.
ENTRY VISA REQUIREMENTS AND EXTENSIONS
animals is subject to export licence obtained at the
Foreigners wishing to obtain an entry visa should apply at
Musés nationaux (Ministry of Culture and Arts and of the
diplomatic representatives accredited by DRC in their res-
National Museums) as well as at the Ministère de
Nevertheless, exporting certain works of art and some
Ministère de la Culture et Arts et du Conservateur des
pective countries of origin.
l’Environnement et de la Conservation de la Nature (Ministry of Environment and the Conservation of
So far the DRC has not entered into agreements with any
Wildlife) and the Institut Congolais pour la Conservatioin
country so as to waive the legal obligation to have a visa
de la Nature (The Congolese Institute for the
at entry.
Conservation of Wildlife/ICCN).
However, visas may sometimes be obtained at immigra-
You MUST have a letter of invitation
tion services, provided that due steps are taken upon
to get a visa into the DRC!
arrival into the DRC.
GETTING THERE
The application for a visa should include: • A valid passport; • 2 recent passport photos; • A valid round-trip ticket;
For any long-distance travelling, air
• Evidence of financial means or support;
is generally the only way to go
• A DRC invitation letter for businesspeople or a mission
RAIL AND ROAD ACCESS
order for official agents; • Evidence of accommodation booking; • A certificate of good character not more than three
The main railway line serves Lubumbashi to Ilebo, with a
months old;
branch to Kalemie via Kabalo and Kisangani, but the
• A current certificate of vaccination against cholera and
rolling stock is in a poor state of repair. The roads are also
yellow fever;
in poor condition, becoming almost impassable in the
• A copy of the air ticket;
wet season. Other than in Kinshasa, travel throughout
• 2 completed copies of the visa application form
the country is difficult and many regions (particularly in
(obtained from the DRC embassy in the country of
the east and north) remain insecure.
origin).
SEA ACCESS CUSTOMS There are ports and harbours in Kinshasa, Boma, Matadi, Tourists and visitors who have a permit for temporary
Kisangani, Kindu, Kalemie and Goma. There are boats
stay may bring goods or assets into DRC, except products
and barges operating on the Congo River from Kinshasa
banned by the law such as drugs, weapons, and porno-
to Kisangani.
graphic items and publications.
22
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
DOMESTIC AIR SERVICES
Air connections exist between Kinshasa and Matadi, the main maritime port, Lubumbashi and Kananga via Muene
Domestic air services are well developed, with 16 carriers
Ditu, Kananga and Ilebo, Lubumbashi, and Kalemie via
serving 19 airports plus a number of airstrips. A sche-
Kamina, Lubumbashi and Kindu via Kamina, Kisangani
duled domestic service is provided by Hewa Bora Airways,
and Ubundu, and Bumba and Mungbere via Aketi and
linking Kinshasa with the other main urban centres.
Isiro. This network also services transport of goods and commodities (freight).
The DRC is serviced by several airlines. Find more information about
DRIVING LICENCE AND PERMIT
DRC airlines in the Address Book section
The Congolese traffic code requires driving on the right side of the road and drivers should possess a valid driving
GETTING AROUND
licence issued by the Commission Nationale de Prevention Routière (National Commission for Road
Getting around the DRC does not require any particular
Safety/CNPR), which is a department of the Ministry of
formality, except for access to mining areas, which are
Transport, Roads and Communication.
subject to restrictions. Driving licences fall into five categories (A, B, C, D and E) Getting around the DRC may be done by air, road and
according to engine size. They are obtained after training
river. However, due to the long distances and roads that
successfully with a registered motor-school and payment
are often in bad repair, mostly during the rainy season, it
of fees (currently set at US $30). The driving licence is
is advisable to travel by plane.
renewable every five years. International driving licences are also valid.
Several airline companies connect many places to the capital as well as main cities in the provinces on a daily
Right-hand-drive
basis. Such services are provided by airlines such as
However, the traffic police authorities are intending to
Hewa Bora Airways (HBA), CAA (Companie Africaine
prohibit import of such vehicles soon owing to potential
d’Aviation), Business Aviation, Filair, Malila Airlift, Malu
crash risk for those driving or using them.
Aviation and Air Tropiques. There are many different ways for people to travel
vehicles
are
currently
allowed.
B U S I N E S S
R E S O U R C E S
Mopaya zoba The foreigner is like a white chicken, he is recognized immediately Congolese saying 25
BUSINESS RESOURCES
ADVERTISING AGENCIES
eBizguides DRC
AIR CHARTER Air Tropique
Dispromalt
Aéroport de N’dolo
1ère rue, Q/Funa
Kinshasa, Barumbu
Kinshasa, Limete
Tel: +243-99-8128094
Tel: +243-99-9945885 / 81-9945770 Bravo Air Congo Divo
bld. du 30 juin
bld. du 30 juin
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-8437837
Tel: +243-99-6012000
Email: deo@divo.cd
Website: www.bravoaircongo.com
Oeil Gra phisme
CAA
5 av. de l’Action
7 6ème rue
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Limete
Tel: +243-81-8840197
Tel: +243-99-9902840 Email: itadek@hotmail.com
Pagewe bcongo Kinshasa, Gombe
Filair
Tel: +243-99-9927703 / 81-5250100
Aéroport de N’dolo
Email: info@pageweb.cd
Kinshasa, Barumbu
Website: www.pagewebcongo.com
Tel: +243-99-8002486 Email: filair@micronet.cd
Publi-Inter 123 11ème rue
Hewa Bora Airways
Kinshasa, Limete
1928 av. Kabambare
Tel: +243-81-8128740 / 89-8910495
Kinshasa, Barumbu
Email: emile@publinter.cd
Tel: +243-81-7005008 Email: gilles@hba.cd
Pygma Ogilvy Imm. Botour, 9e niveau,
Ma lila Airlift
Kinshasa, Gombe
Aeroport de N’dolo
Tel: +243-99-8016045
Kinshasa, Barumbu
Email: aliceb@pygmaogilvy.com
Tel: +243-99-9939807 Email: Malila_airlift@yahoo.fr
DRC Conta ct Kinshasa, Gombe
Ma lu Aviation
Tel: +243-99-8870410
Aéroport de N’dolo
Email: drc_contacts@yahoo.fr
Kinshasa, Barumbu Tel: +243-81-8846801 Email: malu.aviation@ic.cd
26
eBizguides DRC
AIR COURIER EXPRESS
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m Congo T ravel Service 11 bld. du 30 juin Kinshasa, Gombe
Agetraf/Congo Containers
Tel: +243-99-9998404 / 81-5000422
4200 av. Général Bobozo, Q/N’dolo Kinshasa, Barumbe
GTM
Tel: +243-81-5110114 / 89-8946770
22A bld. du 30 juin
Email: agetraf@agetraf.cd
Kinshasa, Gombe
Website: www.agetraf.cd
Tel: +243-99-8018900 / 81-8845724 Email: opsgtm@afrinet.cd
CAA 7 6ème rue Kinshasa, Limete Tel: +243-99-9902840
Trans Air Ca rgo Services
Email: itadek@hotmail.com
14e rue 13/B Kinshasa, Limete
Email: fihtcr1@dhl.com
Tel: +243-81-5030404 DHL 180 av. du Marché
T ransgazelle
Kinshasa, Gombe
av. Kabinda
Tel: +243-81-7888810
Kinshasa, Lingwala Tel: +243-99-9994000
GT S Express
Email: saebkanso@hotmail.com
Crois. av. Wagenia et Equateur Port of Matadi, the country's revolving door
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-9918740 Email: gtsriho@ic.cd
CARGO SHIPPING Afritrans 1169 av. des Poids Lourds Kinshasa, Kingabua Tel: +243-81-7005200 / 99-9915240 Email: Afritrans_kin@yahoo.fr Website: www.afritrans.cd
Agetraf/Congo Containers 4200 av. Général Bobozo, Q/N’dolo Kinshasa, Barumbe Tel: +243-81-5110114 / 89-8946770 Email: agetraf@agetraf.cd Website: www.agetraf.cd
29
BUSINESS RESOURCES
eBizguides DRC
CAR HIRE A cha uffere d car is recom mende d as the tra ffic in Kinsha sa is insa ne! Hertz Avis
Hotel Memling et CFAO
Grand Hotel Kinshasa
B.P. 2200, Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-81-7005690 / 81-8844782
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-9936321
Email: hertzkin@cfao.com Website: www.hertz.com
British Ca rs & Pa rts Limited 22 bld. du 30 juin, Immeuble Immoaf
Renka Sprl
Kinshasa, Gombe
50 av. du Tchad, Hรถtel Memling
Tel: +243-99-9947807
Kinshasa, Gombe
Europcar (K ababe Sprl)
Email: renkakin@yahoo.fr
Tel: +243-81-5021957
43 av. Colonel Ebeya Kinshasa, Gombe
K upic T ravel & T ours
Tel: +243-99-9915401 / 99-9924801
Tel: +243-81-0336799
Email: europcar.dir@ic.cd
Email: reservations@kupictravels.cd
www.europcar.cd
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
S.E .A
Le Mandarin
315 avenue des Syndicats,
7e étage, Immeuble INSS
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-81-8512346
Tel: +243-99-9931358
Email: antonybeguin@hotmail.com
Chinese.
CATERERS
Ma ngoustan
L’E xtreme
Kinshasa, Gombe
5D av. du Tchad, Hotel Memling
av. de l’Equateur,
Tel: +243-81-7001111
Kinshasa, Gombe
Congolese and European.
Tel: +243-99-9925126 Res taurant La Ciboule tte Le Caf’ Conc’
15 av. Colonel Lukusa
13 av. de la Nation
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-9942710
Tel: +243-81-8128439 / 89-8910593
French.
BUSINESS RESOURCES
eBizguides DRC
Building in boulevard du 30 juin, one of the main streets of Kinshasa
Restaurant La Piscine 4 av. Luambo Makiadi
CONFERENCE FACILITIES
Kinshasa, Gombe Although there is a lack of proper
Tel: +243-81-5048520
conference centres most hotels
Greek.
offer a minimum of some small Restaura nt New Ala din
private rooms for meetings.
726 av. de la Paix Kinshasa, Gombe
Chateau Margau
Tel: +243-89-8921000 / 99-8220820
3668 av. Mbuji-Mayi
Oriental and Lebanese.
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-9917953 / 81-7005036
Super Aubaine 6081 av. Lokole
Cine polis
Kinshasa, Gombe
bld. du 30 juin
Tel: +243-89-8939922
Kinshasa, Gombe
Congolese and European.
Tel: +243-99-9926426
32
eBizguides DRC Grand Hotel de K inshas a
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
CONSULTANTS
4 av. Batetela Kinshasa, Gombe
Deloitte
Tel: +243-89-8946660/61/62
94 bld. du 30 juin
Email: Grandhotelkinshasa@ic.cd
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-81-7005091
Website: www.grandhotelkinshasa.cd
Email: gpocd@gpopartners.com Memling
Website: www.gpopartners.com
5D av. du Tchad Kinshasa, Gombe
Fida frica
Tel: +243-81-7001111
Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: info@memling.net
Tel: +243-81-0536849
Website: www.memling.net
Email: Guamieri.david@cd.pwc.com
Hotel Invest RT NC
Ile ka Cons ulting
av. de la LibĂŠration
bld. du 30 juin
Kinshasa, Lingwala
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-8237477
Tel: +243-81-4706408 Email: ilekahenri@yahoo.fr Website: www.ilekaconsulting.com
BUSINESS RESOURCES
eBizguides DRC
KPM G Congo RDC 12e niveau tour BCDC Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-89-8927000/172 Soficom Change
Email: kpmg@ic.cd
1 av. des Sénégalais Master Team Cons ulting
Kinshasa, Gombe
1C Imm. Kasai, Place Royal
Tel: +243-99-9946659 / 81-5183230
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-81-0375631
Solidarite Change
Email: mandack@masterteam.fr
bld. du 30 juin, Galerie du Centenaire
Website: www.masterteam.fr
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-9934330
Pricewaterhouse Coopers 13 av. de la Mongala
Equinoxe
Kinshasa, Gombe
bld. du 30 juin, Place Royal
Tel: +243-99-8396271
Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: Benjamin.nzailu@cd.pwc.com
Tel: +243-99-9941116
Sesomo
Es toril
396 av. Colonel Ebeya
10 av. Kabasele
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Barumbu
Tel: +243-99-9942581
Tel: +243-81-5091286
FOREX BUREAUS
HOTELS
ABS Sprl Se e Le is ure section.
16 av. Batetela, Grand Hotel de Kinshasa Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-9915303
HUMAN RESOURCES Sodeico 1 av. de l’Oua, entee Procoki Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-9968020 / 99-7416404 Moneytrans
Email: direction@sodeico.net
av. Batetela, Grand Hotel
Website: www.sodeico.net
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-9923560 / 99-8310128
INSURANCE Allc de Court d’Ass et Eas Tel: +243-99-8167649 Email: acardc@caramail.com
34
BUSINESS RESOURCES
eBizguides DRC
Belgault & Companie
Microcom
bld. du 30 juin, building Ruwenzori
4 av. Mutombo Katshi
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-81-5115988 / 81-5115997
Tel: +243-81-8845480 Email: microcom@micronet.cd
Che z Le Jeune
Website: www.microcom.cd
av. du port, Immeuble Forescom Tel: +243-99-9939819
LANGUAGE CENTRES
Email: lejeune@ic.cd AB C Gras Sa voye
Place Socimat
1525 bld. du 30 juin
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-9977777
Tel: +243-81-0838870/73 Email: Grassavoye.rdc@micronet.cd
Alliance Franco-Concolais e 11 av. Lubefu
Socodam
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-9915270 / 99 8303253
Tel: +243-99-8206911
Email: socodam@hotmail.com
Email: Afkinshasa@yahoo.fr
Sonas
Cali
bld. du 30 juin
av. Colonel Mondjiba
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa/Ngaliema
Tel: +243-81-0336787
Tel: +243-81-2010737
Email: sonas@hotmail.com K LC
INTERNET PROVIDERS
Place de la Gare Centrale Kinshasa, Gombe
Cyber Ne t
Tel: +243-99-8176204
Nouvelles Galeries Présidentielles, RCM 21, Kinshasa, Gombe
Soft Hard
Tel: +243-81-7005112/5111
Immeuble Botour, local 49 Kinshasa, Gombe
Globa l Broadband Solutions 4630 av. de la science
Tel: +243-99-9940716 Email: typemaleko@hotmail.com
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-81-0884344 Email: Dvds@gb-solution.com
LEGAL SERVICES
Fa st Net
Loko et Ass ocies Avocats
14 av. Tombalbaye
Galerie Pacha, à coté du Memling
Kinshasa, Gombe
Local 16, 2e étage
Tel: +243-99-9919742
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-9924898
36
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
Mme Blaise Lunda
Le Potentiel
av. Flamboyant, av. de la Libération
873 av. Bas-Congo
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-9942797
Tel: +243-99-8135483
Mme Genevieve Decamp
Le Pa lmares
av. de l’Equateur, Immeuble PEK
av. du livre, Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-8170544 / 99-8206490
Tel: +243-89-8910556 Le Phare Mme . Lukusa Mutobola
av. Colonel Lukusa, Building du 29 juin
Nouvelles Galeries Presidentielles
Kinshasa, Gombe
Local 1, M15
Tel: +243-81-33330195 / 99-9906352
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-89-8924290
Uhuru
Mme . Monique Ja ras sier
Kinshasa, Ngaliema
Immeuble ex. Sabena, bld. du 30 juin
Tel: +243-81-8100012
374 av. Colonel Mondjiba, Galerie St Pierre
Kinshasa, Gombe Regards sur K inshasa Mme . Joel Osias
Hôtel de Ville
Imm. Noguera, angle Kasa-vubu et Commerce
150 av. Colonel Ebeya
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-9903811
Tel: +243-81-516526 Email: hoteldevilledekinshasa@hotmail.com
John Claude Crés py & Ass ociate s. Inte rnational Law Firm. 60, avenue Colonel Mandjiba, Porte 7C,
OFFICE SUPPORT
Concession Cotex - Texaf, Kinshasa / Gombe Tel: +243-81-9744455 / 5004583
AITEC
Email: musafiri@jcc.cd
bld. du 30 juin
Website: www.jcc.cd
Kinshasa, Gombe
MEDIA
Email: info@aitec-corporation.com
Tel: +243-81-2065775
Congo We b
Radiocom
Immeuble Botour
av. Luambo Makiadi
Kinshasa, Gombe
Building Botour, local 68/69
Tel: +243-99-8193510
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-8534100 / 99-9915060
Digital Congo
Email: Marketing@radiocom.cd
Binza Pigeon
Website: www.ra diocom.cd
Kinshasa, Ngaliema Tel: +243-81-7378947
Fast Net 14 av. Tombalbaye, Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-9919742
37
BUSINESS RESOURCES
eBizguides DRC Tele Sat
A great thing about the DRC is that
av. Mpolo Maurice
some people will do internet house
Kinshasa, Gombe
calls!
Tel: +243-81-5096302 Email: kin@telesat.cd
PROPERTY
SECURITY SERVICES
Hasson & Frères 11 av. Basoko
Delta Protection
Kinshasa, Gombe
2308 av. Mbuji-Mayi
Tel: +243-81-1843489
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-7033033
Immoaf 22A bld. du 30 juin
G4s Security Services
Kinshasa, Gombe
108 bld. du 30 juin
Tel: +243-81-7008804
Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: immoaf@ic.cd
Tel: +243-81-8139402 / 81-715404 Email: Frik_van_heerden@yahoo.fr
Immodom 1425 av. des Charpentiers
Ma ge nya P rotection
Kinshasa, Limete
av. Cataracte
Tel: +243-81-7005043
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-7017900 / 81-5049394
RESTAURANTS Mamba Securité 156 av. Province See Leisure section.
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-9924650 Email: mambasec@raga.net
SATELLITE PROVIDERS Se curicor DSTV
6887 av. Wangata
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-81-5012318 / 99-8271853
Tel: +243-81-3464090
Email: ellico@ckt.cd
Email: securimat@bulamatadi.ne
Ellico Sprl
TAXIS
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-8271853
Kinshasa city has reinstated c olours
Email: ellico@ckt.cd
for its registered taxis! the blue and yellows !
Sola r Energy S prl Tel: +243-99-8248925
Daniel
Email: Solar-energy@starnet.cd
Tel: +243-99-9992488
38
Look for
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
Romia l
T igo
Tel: +243-81-9263911
372 av. Colonel Mondjiba Kinshasa/Ngaliema
TELECOMMUNICATIONS
Tel: +243-89-8901010 Website: www.tigo.cd
Celtel Sarl 1 crois. des av. Tchad et Bas-Congo Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-9900100 Email: celtel_rdc@celtel.cd Website: www.celtel.cd Vodacom Standard Te lecom
3157 bld. du 30 juin
av. des Huileries
2ème étage, Imm. Cobil, Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-81-5110402
Tel: +243-81-8130000 / 81-3131400 Email: vodacom@vodacom.cd Website: www.vodacom.cd Don't be surprised in the provinces to see that bicycles are actually taxis!
39
BUSINESS RESOURCES
eBizguides DRC
40
I N V E S T M E N T
&
L E G A L
F R A M E W O R K
The chicken lays its eggs when we're not looking (we hide the secrets of the trade) Babombaka sekele ya mosala Congolese saying 41
INVESTMENT & LEGAL FRAMEWORK
WHY TO DO BUSINESS IN DRC
eBizguides DRC
• Exchange control allowing free transfer of interest, dividends and royalties. • The drafting and enforcement of the Investments Code,
Currently the business climate and general environment
the Mining Code and the Forest Code, which all gua-
in the DRC are less than attractive for investors seeking
rantee to investors not only protection of their interests,
ready-made opportunities. The country has not yet totally
but also substantial customs and tax incentives.
broken away from the adverse aftermath of its unstable
• The setting up of ANAPI (Agence Nationale pour la
political history of the early years of independence and
Promotion des Investissements / National Agency for the
some practices still exist that are inconsistent with good
Protection of Investments) and the opening of offices to
governance. This period of political instability has
assist in the process of setting up companies.
resulted in damage to large parts of the socioeconomic
• The enforcement of major changes in public funding
infrastructure.
and moves towards privatization of several state-owned companies, for which shareholding is now or soon to be
However, there are reasons to expect a good future for
available.
the country, since major changes have taken place within the public administration, the magistracy and the tax
Investment incentives are numerous and varied, notably
legislation with a view to reducing corruption, adminis-
in the following sectors:
trative, judicial and tax barriers, and to safeguard respect for private property.
• Agriculture, farming, fishing, fish-farming, tree planting and forestry;
In early 2007 new institutions were set up following the
• Mining;
democratic elections, which have brought about a relati-
• Metallurgy;
vely stable political era, and the DRC, in association with
• Manufacturing;
aid from Bretton Woods institutions and the European
• Timber;
Community, can now engage in the process of rehabili-
• Food;
tating the socioeconomic infrastructure damaged by
• Textiles and clothing;
wars and plundering.
• Pharmaceuticals; • Housing, building and public works;
This stabilization effort in political life and restoring of
• Cleansing and drinking water distribution;
poor infrastructure will allow the country to offer a suffi-
• Production and distribution of electricity;
ciently attractive environment to new investors, making it
• Transports;
possible to take up the following opportunities:
• Hydrocarbons; • Banking and insurance;
• A large potential local market, including more than 62
• Telephones and telecommunications;
million inhabitants, and a potential regional market rea-
• Tourism, accommodation and food catering;
ching out to bordering countries in Central Africa.
• Commerce.
• An abundance of mining, agriculture, energy, forestry, water and tourist resources. The DRC has a monopoly on
Although the DRC is not the easiest
some of these resources within the region.
country in which to do business,
• A stable macroeconomic framework for five years with
your opportunities are as vast as
a curbed inflation rate (around 18% per annum), a
the country!
growth rate of almost 7% per annum, a stable currency, resulting from backing by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the adoption of drastic budgetary discipline by the Government.
42
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NATIONAL LAWS AND LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR INVESTMENTS LEGISLATION ON BUSINESS COMPANIES
The most usual forms of company are SPRL and SARL, the shareholders’ liability of which is limited to their respective contributions.
In an SPRL, social shares are compulsorily uniform, nominal and not disposable (not transferable).
In compliance with the legislation on business compa-
Incorporation of an SARL requires a minimum of seven
nies, foreign physical persons or legal entities may con-
shareholders at inception, and it is subject to prior autho-
duct business in the DRC under the form of a Congolese
rization of the Head of State and to payment of propor-
commercial company (subsidiary) or a branch or by incor-
tional fees amounting to 6% of share capital.
poration of a business company. The Decree no. 79/025 of 7th February 1979, which To conform to the laws, a business company may be
governs the performance of businesses in the DRC, pro-
established under one of the following forms:
vides procedures regarding incorporation of companies under the Congolese company law including:
• Société en nom collectif (SNC) (Limited Partnership); • Société en commandite simple (SCS) (Sole Partnership);
• Registration of a business and submission of articles of
• Société privée à responsabilité limitée (SPRL) (Private
incorporation of the company duly notarized at the office
Limited Company);
of the Clerk of the Court for registration at the company
• Société par actions à responsabilité limitée (SARL)
registrar (NRC). Concerning foreigners or a foreign com-
(Public Limited Company);
pany, the Decree 66/260 of 24th April 1966 requires
• Société coopérative (SC) (Cooperative).
registration at the company registrar and submission of
The Independent Electoral Commission that organizes free and transparent elections
INVESTMENT & LEGAL FRAMEWORK
eBizguides DRC
financial guarantees fixed at CDF 50 million (about US
which are designed for general purposes as well as legal
$100,000) to be deposited into a Congolese bank;
regulations tailored to some sectors and specific activi-
• Payment of proportional fees of 6% of share capital for
ties.
SARL; • Payment of lump sum amount for submission of the
The Investment Code of the DRC is among the most
articles of incorporation;
attractive in Africa for its customs, taxes and exceptional
• Opening of a deposit bank account;
incentives, which apply to national and foreign investors
• Obtaining a national identification number at the
over a period from three to five years according to where
Ministry of the Economy under conditions fixed by Order
their business is established. However, these incentives
no. 023 of 3rd October 1998;
are not applicable to investments in sectors such as
• Obtaining an import/export registration number at the
mining, hydrocarbons, banking, insurance, business acti-
Ministry of Foreign Trade;
vities, weapons industry, and other sectors governed by
• Requesting a tax registration number at the General
particular laws.
Administration of Tax (DGI); • Obtaining a residence visa and a work permit for
See the Provinces section to get a
foreign personnel.
better idea of the regional incentives
To comply with these complex procedures requires an almost comprehensive knowledge of the wheels of public administration, tax and judiciary administration of the
Customs Incentives in the Investment Code
DRC. For this reason, a newly settled investor is strongly encouraged to seek advice from a proficient consultancy
An investor eligible under the investment incentives is
firm with enough expertise in the business area con-
entitled to:
cerned. • Total exemption from import duties and extra taxes on At operation or production phase, investors are required
machinery, tools and brand new equipment as well as on
to comply with Law no. 77 332 of 30th November 1977
spare parts at the first endowment for a value lesser than
governing the Congolese Accounting Standards (referred
the CIF value of the equipment, heavy engines, second-
to as PCGC) and other practices to be followed by all
hand vessels and aircraft;
public and private companies. These standards require a
• Total exemption from export duties and taxes for part
business to maintain accounts in the official language
or whole of the products finished, manufactured or semi-
(French) and in Congolese Francs (CDF).
processed yielded by an investment.
INVESTMENT LEGISLATION
Tax and extra fiscal incentives in the Investment Code
The general framework for investment falls under Law 004/2002 of 21st February 2002 promulgating the
• Total exemption from tax on professional income (cor-
Investment Code and providing for the regulation of
porate income tax);
business, and Decree 0065/2002 of 5th June 2002 con-
• Declining-balance depreciation for investments made in
cerning articles of incorporation, organization and func-
socioeconomic infrastructure (hospitals, education facili-
tioning of l’Agence Nationale pour la Promotion des
ties, roads etc.);
Investissements (The National Agency for the Promotion
• Exemption from proportional fees regarding incorpora-
of Investment/ANAPI). For an in-depth knowledge of the
tion as an SARL at registration or in cases where the
Congolese business environment, investors are strongly
share capital is subject to increase;
advised to study the meaning and wording of these laws,
• Exemption of fixed duties;
44
Justice Palace in Kinshasa
• Exemption from tax levied on built land surfaces, in
• Providing the necessary means for eliminating all impe-
connection
diments or obstacles against investment.
with
investment
projects
entitled
to
Investment Code advantages; • Exemption from domestic sales tax on purchase of
In this regard, ANAPI constitutes a reference point gua-
equipment and industrial items manufactured in the
ranteeing investors appropriate information as well as
DRC.
assistance and necessary guidance for the completion of
Decree 0065/2002 of 5th June 2002
tment projects.
This decree regulates the articles of incorporation, and
Forestry Code
administrative formalities and the realization of inves-
the organization and functioning of ANAPI, which is The recent Forestry Code is based on modern principles
charged with:
for the management of forestry resources and interna• Promoting private, public and mixed investments either
tional conventions with respect to the environment.
within the country or abroad; • Investment projects entitled to the unique regime
The promulgation of the code has been an opportunity
under the Investment Code incentives;
for updating basic provisions of the Congolese forestry
• Ensuring the effectiveness of the Guichet Unique, as
system and its enforcement measures as of 11th April
well as offering diverse services to investors regarding the
1949.
implementation of their projects;
45
INVESTMENT & LEGAL FRAMEWORK The main additions included are:
eBizguides DRC
• Transfer of income from exports (article 269); • Exchange control fees (article 270).
• Timber areas have been classified into three categories: classified forests, protected forests and forests of perma-
Labour Code
nent production; • Specific regulations relative to the forestry tax system
The legislation on social affairs and labour is provided
guaranteeing a longstanding management of the forest
within the recent Labour Code, which regulates profes-
resources, an incentive for better forest management and
sional relationships between employers and employees.
reconciling of development objectives along with timber New provisions in this Code include the abolishment of
industry objectives.
provisions on the legal incapacity of women, who no Individuals or companies may enter into forested area
longer have to seek their husband’s approval in order to
contracts with the Government, provided that sufficient
work. The Code establishes the process for the collection
technical and financial guarantees are deposited. The
of social contributions due to the Institut National de
maximum forestry area granted to an individual cannot
Sécurité Sociale (INSS/National Institution for Social
exceed 500,000 hectares (1235,526.91 acres).
Security) and the Institut National de Préparation Professionnelle (INPP/National Institution for Vocational
The Code requires a holder of a forestry contract to start
Education).
activities within 18 months following the contract date. The Code also contains provisions for the settling of pro-
Mining Code
fessional disputes between employees and employers through the agency of the General Inspectorate of
The DRC’s Mining Code was promulgated under Law no.
Labour.
007/2002 of 11th July 2002. This Code regulates the tax and customs regime applicable to holders of mining
Go to www.ebizguides.com DRC
rights, to affiliated companies and subcontractors. It enti-
page for full documentation on the
tles investors to substantial incentives relative to:
various investment codes.
INTERNATIONAL LAWS AND AGREEMENTS
• Tax on mine surfaces (article 238); • Mining fees (article 241); • Tax on rentals (article 246); • Corporate income tax (article 247);
Thanks to its status as a country in partnership with the
• Depreciation (article 249);
European Community (Cotonou Agreement), the DRC is
• Deferred depreciation (article 250);
a member state in the African, Caribbean and Pacific
• Research and development expenses (article 252);
group of states (ACP). It is also a member of the Common
• Capital gains on transfer of titles (article 253);
Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), the
• Provision for reconstitution of mining areas (article 257);
Southern African Development Community (SADEC), and
• Provision for rehabilitation of sites (article 258);
the Economic Community of Central African States
• Sales tax (article 259);
(ECCAS) and the Community of the Great Lakes
• Exceptional tax on expatriate salaries (article 260);
Countries (CPGL). As a member of these bodies, the DRC
• Transfers of funds abroad (article 264);
has committed to fully complying with regulations, some
• The management of main accounts and accounts for
of which are restrictive, based on treaties and agreements
servicing of foreign debt (article 271);
entered into with its partners.
• Repatriation of export income (article 269);
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w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
Furthermore, the DRC is a member state of the United
Congolese or foreign nationals hired in the DRC are also
Nations (UN), the African Union (AU) and the World
subject to income tax at progressive rates banded bet-
Trade Organization (WTO).
ween 3% and 50%, but the resulting total tax will not exceed 30% of taxable remuneration as a whole. The
Since 2005 DRC has joined the African Trade Insurance
taxable base at IPR consists of the following: family allo-
Agency (ACI), which is aimed at facilitating, fostering and
wances, transport allowances, housing allowances,
developing the supply of insurance, including co-insu-
medical fees and contributions to the official pension
rance and re-insurance, guarantees and other financial
funds.
instruments, for commercial investment exchanges as well as other productive activities in Africa.
A person who is an active shareholder in a company other than an SARL is also subject to taxes on salaries and
Investors should understand the international laws and
benefits.
regulations relevant to their markets and thus integrate their investments into the Congolese context and busi-
The tax payment schedule is as follows in respect of tax
ness world.
instalments, tax deducted at source and corporate tax:
TAXATION AND CUSTOMS REGIMES Tax and customs legislation is established under two types of regime: the common law regime and the specific regime.
TAX AND CUSTOMS REGIME UNDER COMMON LAW The tax and customs regime establishes taxes and duties owed to the Congolese Government by any business, whatever the nationality of incorporation, for example:
It is important to note that expatriate salaries tax (IERE) cannot be deducted from corporate income tax (profit), and where a loss is made, the minimum payable corporate income tax amount is 1% of the turnover of the period, or US $2,500. Carrying over of losses is authorized over five periods.
To date, there are no double taxation agreements between the DRC and other countries.
Business companies are taxed only on income derived from activities conducted within the DRC.
47
INVESTMENT & LEGAL FRAMEWORK
eBizguides DRC
Customs tax and duties applicable to forestry
Excise and customs duties are established as follows:
In addition to duties and taxes prescribed by the common law, forestry operators are subject to exceptional taxes as follows:
SPECIFIC CUSTOMS AND TAX REGIME This regime, which is more favourable than the common law regime, applies on a selective basis to some activity sectors with high potential such as mining, hydrocarbons and forestry.
The table below offers guidance on specific taxation applied to these three sectors in terms of reduction of tax rates and exemptions. Taxes not explicitly mentioned are prescribed within the common law.
The government is making a real effort on cutting down the days it takes to set up a commercial company, but be patient, your paperwork will eventually come back to you.
Businesses conducting activities relating to the logging trade or industrial saw-mills are required to pay duties
Customs tax and duties applicable to mining
and fees prescribed in the Forestry Code irrespective of the tax regime they are subjected to.
Affiliates and subcontractors may also benefit from incentives that mining title holders are entitled to.
48
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Tax and customs duties concerning hydrocarbons
permitted. Nevertheless, for transfer of sums exceeding
Businesses in the hydrocarbons sector must obtain a
a bank appointed by the Central Bank.
• Common transfers, transfers of income and funds are
US $10,000, declaration thereon is required to be filed at
mining title via a Permis de Reconnaissance et
• The Central Bank has fixed at either US $10,000 or the
d’Exploration (Permit for Prospecting and Exploration) as
equivalent in another foreign currency the ceiling amount
well as an exploitation permit issued under an oil conven-
to be held in cash while crossing the national frontiers.
tion from the Ministers in charge of Energy and Finances.
Export of amounts exceeding this ceiling should be by bank transfer.
This convention becomes valid only after approval by the
• Transactions or services rendered throughout the
President of the Republic.
country are usually assessed or paid for in local currency.
EXCHANGE CONTROLS
• The law allows the Central Bank to levy exchange fees
However, these can be discharged in foreign currency.
of 2% on every payment made to or from foreign counPeople planning to invest in the DRC are required to pro-
tries irrespective of the status of the sender or benefi-
cure enough knowledge about the essential require-
ciary. These fees are levied on every payment made to or
ments of exchange controls as prescribed by the Central
received from approved banks or from abroad and any
Bank of the Congo as summarized below:
exportation with no repatriation of foreign currency funds.
• The DRC has adopted a floating exchange regime allo-
• For any payment to be given or received as income,
wing freedom to hold foreign currency.
current transfers or circulation of capital, the appointed
Older children help out and learn the trade in small-scale commerce
49
INVESTMENT & LEGAL FRAMEWORK
eBizguides DRC
bank is held to issue a declaration on expenses or receipts
Beware to double check the reputa-
in foreign currencies. Transfer of earnings should be
tion of whomever you buy a plot of
understood as remuneration, returns on direct inves-
land from. Also, keep in mind that you buy the rights of the land, but it
tments, returns from convertible liquid assets and other
still belongs to the government!
investments. • Inflow of funds as direct, convertible liquid assets or other investments, including advance funding for expor-
CUSTOMS DUTIES
tations, is authorized against a declaration. Funds invested in DRC should be derived from licit eco-
The Treasury collects tax on imported or exported pro-
nomic transactions.
ducts through the agency of Office des Douanes et
RESTRICTION ON EMPLOYMENT OF FOREIGN WORKERS
the basis of assessment for commodities imported, whe-
Accises (OFIDA/Customs Office). The CIF value is used as
reas the FOB value is used for exported commodities.
While there is no legal restriction placed on employment
Under the Customs Code, excise and customs duties are
of foreign workers, they are required to seek a residence
established as follows:
visa and a work permit from the immigration services (Direction Générale des Migrations\DGM) and the Labour
• Entry duties (imports): banded from 3% to 13% on CIF
and Social Providence Ministry (Ministère du Travail et de
value;
la Prévoyance Sociale).
• Exit duties (exports): banded from 1% to 10% on FOB value;
Issuance of both residence visas and work permits is con-
• Excise duties: banded from 3% to 13%.
tingent upon payment of fees to the Treasury. Incentives for investment in sectors of high potential have Employers are obligated to file a return for the purpose
been established under a special tax system, mainly for
of social security contributions (SSC) at the INSS (Institut
mining, hydrocarbons and forestry.
National de Sécurité Sociale), which is entrusted with the management of pension and retirement funds; in addi-
For instance, customs and excise duties are fixed as
tion, employers are required to contribute SSC according
follows for mining and forestry products:
to the number of employees. Mining sector
IMPORTATION LICENCE AND CUSTOMS DUTIES
Entry duties: 2% to 5%; Exit duties: 0%; Excise duties: 0%.
There are no exchange controls in the DRC or application of quotas to imports and exports.
Forestry sector Exportation of timber logs: 3% to 6% of FOB value;
Businesses conducting import and export activities must
Exportation of felled timber: 1% to 2%.
obtain a licence model M for imports and model V for
REPATRIATION OF FUNDS AND PROFITS
exports from appointed banks.
Companies are not compelled to repatriate foreign currencies derived from exports.
Repatriation of funds and income from investments in the DRC are governed by the circulars and guidance of the Central Bank of Congo (CBC).
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Following instructions from the CBC, funds for repatria-
Central Africa (with around 250 million consumers inclu-
tion are those earned as salaries and returns from direct
ding the populations of peripheral countries), conducive
investments, portfolio liquid assets and other inves-
to wide-scale agricultural and industrial production of
tments.
goods and services likely to be sold locally and the surplus
Current transfers, repatriation of income and funds are
markets and so on.
of which can be exported to European, American, Asian
not subject to restrictions. However, when they exceed US $10,000 a request for the declaration should be made to an appointed bank.
DRC’s membership of several subregional economic zones like SADC, Comesa and CEEAC gives it a central role, thanks to which the movement of locally produced
For any payment to be given or received as income,
goods is made possible. Taking all of this into account,
current transfers or circulation of funds, an appointed
ANAPI provides a full service to those wishing to invest in
bank must issue a declaration on expenses or receipts in
the DRC.
foreign currencies. The inflow of funds as direct investments, portfolio and other investments, including
“ANAPI is a one-stop shop as regards public, private
advances of funds for exports, is allowed provided a
and semi-public investments in the Democratic Republic of Congo.”
declaration form is completed.
MAIN COMPANIES
FÉDÉRATION DES ENTREPRISES DU CONGO (FEC)
ANAPI – AGENCE NATIONALE POUR LA PROMOTION DES INVESTISSEMENTS
Henri Yav Mulang Administrator
Mathias Buabua Wa Kayembe
10 av. des Aviateurs, Kinshasa/Gombe
General Director
Tel: +243-99-9907953
54 av. Colonel Ebeya, 2ème niveau Immeuble
Website: www.fec.cd
ex-Sozabanque, B.P. 1797, Kinshasa
Date of Creation: 1972
Tel: +243-99-9925026 Email: anapirdc@yahoo.fr
Created in 1972 by Ordinance-Law, the Fédération des
Website: www.anapi.org
Entreprises du Congo (FEC), or Federation of Congolese Companies, is a non-profit association. The FEC gathers
The National Agency for Investment Promotion (ANAPI)
together private and public companies working all over
was set up in February 2002. ANAPI was set up to be a
the DRC, of all sizes and from all sectors. One of its main
one-stop shop in terms of investment in the Democratic
objectives is ‘To ensure the promotion of the businesses
Republic of Congo. Its investment promotion covers
in Democratic Republic of Congo’. The FEC advocates for
almost all areas, including: agriculture, agribusiness,
companies, in particular with respect to the authorities.
breeding, fishing, manufacturing industries, hotel trade and catering, buildings and civil engineering, council
The FEC assumes the duties of a chamber of trade,
houses, timber and forestry, air, road, sea, river transport,
industry and agriculture as well as being a professional
telecommunications, information technologies, energy,
organization for employers. It is particularly charged with
textiles and mining, banking and insurance.
promoting the interests of the companies in various bran-
Owing to its strategic position, the DR Congo, with its 60
mony with the common interest.
ches of industry, the social sector and science, in har-
million inhabitants, has become the biggest market in
51
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For this purpose, the FEC aims to:
The FPI’s main mission is to promote the rise of
• advocate for the interests of its company members;
Congolese industry by supporting existing industries and
• cooperate in the implementation of the economic and
promoting new ones. It also promotes industrial integra-
social development programme of the country;
tion in general, and research activities, allowing the deve-
• enable and consolidate harmonious relationships bet-
lopment and improvement of the industrial sector.
ween the authorities and companies; • encourage and pursue in all areas a profitable financing
The most important objective of the FPI is the installation
and investment policy;
of an industrial network, which participates in adding
• work for the establishment of a favourable climate bet-
value to local resources and allowing a satisfaction of
ween companies, their workers and their trade union
local needs. The FPI also focuses on reducing the depen-
organizations.
dence of the Congolese economy on exterior participa-
FEC also represents national and international organiza-
ducts.
tion and promoting the exportation of its industrial pro-
tions, industrial, agricultural, commercial, social and artisanal activities as well as employers. It advises companies
In carrying out its mission for 2003 and 2004 alone, the
on the interpretation of legal regulations (national or
FPI financed 98 projects totalling nearly US $18 million.
foreign), and provides information on these to members. In keeping with its proximity policy, the FPI has provincial The FEC frequently welcomes economic and commercial
offices and branches in Lubumbashi, Matadi, Mbuji-Mayi,
missions from foreign countries and international organi-
Kisangani, Bukavu, Kananga, Boma, Mwene-Ditu and
zations, through which it establishes solid relations for
Kasumbalesa. It has projects to open new offices in
collaboration in favour of its members. The FEC has
Banbundu, Beni, Butembo, Mbandaka and Moanda.
already collaborated with many organizations such as the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, the
The FPI is always open to new business partnerships with
African Development Bank, etc. That is why the mission
investors and financial development institutions.
of the FEC is: “United to build.”
FONDS DE PROMOTION DE L’INDUSTRIE (FPI) Levys Fundu N’Kota General Manager 16 av. Lukusa, Kinshasa/Gombe Tel: +243-99-937409 Email: fpi@micronet.cd
Date of Creation: 1989
Created by the Ordinance of 7th August 1989, Fonds de Promotion de l’Industrie (FPI) is a public company dealing in economic and financial issues. At the functional level, the FPI is under the administrative and financial supervision of the Ministry of Portfolio, and under the technical supervision of the Ministry of Industry.
53
INVESTMENT & LEGAL FRAMEWORK
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T H E
D R C
E C O N O M Y
The dog may have four legs, but does not take two paths at once Mbwa azali na makolo minei kasi alandaka nzela nse moko Congolese saying 55
THE DRC ECONOMY
eBizguides DRC
OVERVIEW DRC has an outrageous potential of natural resources to exploit, principally mining, energy, timber and minerals. The country also has major reserves of hydroelectricity and an interesting potential in agriculture, still the core of its economy.
However, to emphasize and exploit its potential, DRC crucially needs to rehabilitate and maintain its infrastructures, as well as major investments in social services for which the government is still relaying on ODA and the private sector. As for today, the economy still suffers from the legacy of its elite’s corruption under Mobotu Sese Seko’s presidency (1965-1997) and from the civil war of the past decade. Nonetheless recent reforms and policies established to resolve the economic decline are already showing promising results. The recent fiscal and
kept up by the IMF and the World Bank, as well as some
ECONOMIC POLICY / REFORMS AND PERFORMANCE
infrastructural investments and efforts to present more
The main challenge of DRC is to implement reforms that
monetary performance of the government’s strategy,
transparency and formalisation, already have positive
will allow breaking out with past practices and maintain
effects on some economic sectors. For instance, produc-
healthy macroeconomic fundamentals. Since 2001, pro-
tion improvements were registered in agriculture and
gress was made and a significant rupture with the past
particularly in mining.
political practices of informalisation, lack of transparency and fraud was struck up. This was triggered by the arrival
ECONOMIC STRUCTURE
of Joseph Kabila as president, whom also strengthened the country’s reunification and opened DRC to neolibera-
Agriculture is the predominant economic sector of DRC’s
lism.
economy, representing nearly half of GDP (45%), while mining accounts 16% of GDP and shows constant impro-
In 2002, the government adopted a PRGF (poverty reduc-
vements since 2001 thanks to tight reforms and incre-
tion and growth facility) supported by US$861m, to
ased exploitation of diamonds and copper. Services’ acti-
maintain macroeconomic stability and reduce poverty.
vities account for 33% of GDP but the sector is in diffi-
The latter included as key targets the channelling of
culty and is constrained in its development by increased
resources towards public infrastructures, and the restruc-
cost of freight and insurance. While at independence
turing of the civil service and the banking sector. After a
DRC was the most industrialized country in Africa, after
difficult period, in which the IMF threatened the DRC to
South Africa, nowadays manufacturing’s activities are in
stop the PRGF due to its loose implementation, the
decay: DRC’s industry is underdeveloped and its revival is
government made corrective fiscal measures that led to
not expected anytime soon. The construction sector, con-
the appreciation of its currency and the stabilisation in
tributing to 7.1% of GDP, is essentially concentrated in
consumer prices. In 2006 and beginning of 2007, the
the capital.
country faced major difficulties, with investments in different sectors such as mining, civil service, and social sectors being delayed, rising inflation and continued currency depreciation.
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But since April 2007, the government appears to have a
establish and develop a large economic and trade unit:
better control over its public finances. Consequently,
abolish trade barriers and create a monetary union, with
currency appreciated, inflation decreased, and reserves
a single currency and a common central bank.
increased. In 2007, the government established a new PRGF, which led to a new cooperation with the IMF.
The country is also a signatory of the Cotonou
Through this agreement, the IMF imposes a strict fiscal
Agreements, which promotes, among others, Economic
policy, and some monetary and structural conditions. The
Partnerships Agreement (EPAs) and provides subventions
government has promised to invest in social services and
from the European Union. DRC is also a member of the
infrastructures and to anti-poverty expenditure, with an
SADC (Southern African Development Community),
expected 40% increase in public spending. The first
which has both political and economical goals, such as
results are promising: the deficits are low and in October
encouraging regional collaboration through the creation
2007 a recorded fiscal surplus of US$70m was registered.
of a Free Trade Area by 2008 and the commitment by
Further, with the help of the IMF and World Bank, the
Member States to defend existing governments from
government drew up policies of stabilisation and fight
foreign invasion and internal insurgency.
against corruption to protect investments and property rights. However, efforts still have to be made in the judi-
GDP AND DEBT
ciary protection of properties. Although the country has not always known a booming
ECONOMIC REGIONAL TRENDS AND INTEGRATION
economy, the GDP annual growth has presented exce-
DRC is a member of the COMESA (Common Market for
2004-05, and 5.1% in 2006. The GDP growth for 2007-
Eastern and Southern Africa), which principal goals to
08 is expected to reach 6.6-7%. External debt was US$
llent results since 2002 with a GDP growth of 3.7%, 5.8% in 2003, and with promising results of 6.6% in
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THE DRC ECONOMY
eBizguides DRC 11.100m for 2007 but the country is expected to benefit from the HIPC initiative during the upcoming years, which could reduce the country’s external debt by 80%.
COST OF LIVING The DRC has been successful in curbing inflation, which fell from an annual average rate of 135% in 2001 to 18.2% in 2006, thanks to the support of the Bretton Woods Institution through government programmes and the drastic measures aimed at management of public finances.
The last results of the central bank display a low inflation, thanks to a tight money supply control from the BCC in a context of floating exchange rate regime: it decreased 16% in August 2007 and 14% in September. In 2008 inflation was expected to reach 17%. In this context in 2007 the BCC reduced its policy interest rate three times due to slowing monetary growth. In August 2008, the Congolese franc registered an exchange rate of FC557: US$1.
EMPLOYMENT With a population of 60 million inhabitants, the DRC has a high unemployment rate of about 40%. Some 70% of the population lives under the poverty threshold (less than 1 US $ per day).
Agriculture employs more than 75% of the labour force and formal employment remains minimal, while the informal sector employment keeps on rising.
The Government has set an index-linked minimum guaranteed wage, which is a standard for setting wage scales for those employed in the private sector. In practice, salaries are set as a result of bargaining between trade unions and the management of the company through collective agreement.
As a general rule, the level of salaries is lower in the DRC; as a consequence the black economy is on the rise.
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BALANCE OF TRADE Since 1994 exports from the DRC have reached US $1–2 billion , while imports are between US $0.5–2 billion.
The main export products are mineral ores (gold, diamond), mining products, oil, timber, coffee etc. Imports mostly consist of staple goods, raw materials, equipment and oil products.
During this period, there was a favourable trade balance until 2002. It became unfavourable in the period from 2003 to 2006 due to the aftermath of the war and political unrest.
As many developing countries, DRC follows the model of the centre-periphery trade with natural resources’ exports representing a major part of GDP, while imports concern essentially capital goods. As far as volume and value of imports and exports are concerned, they have Central Bank Lubumbashi
substantially increased since 2001. Imports in 2007 compared to 2000 were four times higher in value and 2.5
not send their money abroad, with positive net private
times in volume.
transfers in 2004-2005 for the first time in many years.
Diamonds represent the main part of the exportation,
Foreign Direct Investment is also growing constantly. The
with US$1.2bn in 2005, and US$884m in 2006. The fight
mining sector is the first beneficiary of those investments,
against smuggling explains most of the diamonds exports
but FDI was also hopped in telecommunications, forestry
decrease between 2005 and 2006. Increase in oil exports
exploitation and manufacturing. In 2005 FDI flows repre-
have been important too, going from US$207m in 2000
sented US$1.3bn, which is a boom compared with the
to US$580m in 2006. Cobalt and copper exports are
past three years and the past decade (US$290m and
other major increasing sources of income for the country.
US$5m respectively). With these figures, DRC is one of
In 2000, cobalt exports were US$97m, while in 2006 the
the countries in Sub-Saharan Africa that receive more
figures registered US$373m. Regarding copper, the
FDI. Major foreign investors to the country come from
growth was equally important: in 2000, the country
South Africa and China.
exported US$47m compared to US$257m in 2006. Statistics recorded others increases in exportations of
In this context, the current account only presented
coffee, timber and other forestry products.
US$644m deficit in 2006, a promising figure considering that in 2005 it was US$111m higher.
Since 2000, many current public transfers are coming from ODA, which increased significantly since 2001 due to major improvements in governance, reaching
DESTINATION OF FOREIGN TRADE
US$686m in 2006. Major donors to DRC are the World Bank and the EU. Net private transfers have recently
The traditional and recorded foreign trade is organised
known a reviewed dynamism thanks to Congolese expa-
with industrialised countries. These markets represent
triates who largely invest in DRC and residents whom do
80% of exports. Belgium remains the major trading
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THE DRC ECONOMY
eBizguides DRC
partner, despite a significant decrease in share of total
Cadastre Minier (CAMI/Mining Registrar) and providing it
trade, falling from 55% in 2003 to 33% in 2006. The
with a computerized management system for mining
United States were the second larger export market for
titles, the restructuring of Gecamines with the implemen-
DRC’s products until 2006, but were then substituted by
tation of voluntary lay-offs, management contract with
China. Among African countries, Zambia and South
SOFRECO as consultant for the stabilization of the opera-
Africa are the most important export markets.
tions of Gecamines and the designing of a project on the
DRC also has an important volume of trade with coun-
memorandum of association for the company they plan
tries of its sub-region: in 2006, the country imported
to create.
US$49m and imported US$214m from the latter. DRC
• Post and telecommunications (PTT): setting up the
exports diamonds to Zambia, foodstuffs and diamonds to
authority for the regulation of post, telephone and tele-
Congo Brazzaville, and trades foods and services with
communications (ARPTC), proposal for the segregation
Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania.
of mailing activities conducted by public institutions and
PRIVATIZATION PROCESS
private sector field of activity.
those in telephone and telecommunications to become a
• Transport: sectoral restructuring, outline draft for resThe process of restructuring public Congolese companies
tructuring strategies aimed at companies within the
has been triggered by blatant mismanagement, obsoles-
sector, namely Office National des Transports (ONATRA),
cent production equipment and overabundant civil ser-
Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Congolais (SNCC),
vant staff within most of the companies, especially as
Lignes Aériennes Congolaises (LAC), CITY TRAIN, Régie
these poor conditions have become a hindrance to the
des Voies Aériennes (RVA), Régie des Voies Maritimes
growth of the economy since companies cannot contri-
(RVM) and Régie des Voies Fluviales (RVF).
bute as expected to the budget of the Government nor
• Energy: outline drafts being prepared for restructuring
offer services to the population.
of Société Nationale d’Electricité (SNEL), Congolaise des
In light of this, the Congolese Government set up the
Distribution d’Eau du Congo (REGIDESO).
Hydrocarbures (COHYDRO), Régie de Production et de
Comité de Pilotage de la Réforme des Entreprises Publiques (COPIREP/The Steering Committee for the
FORECAST
Restructuring of Public Companies), which is a body tasked with implementing the Projet Compétitivité et
Although, a lot of efforts still have to be made regarding
Dévelopment du Secteur Privé (Competitiveness and
governance and public expenditure control, economic
Development of the Private Sector Project) funded under
forecasts for the upcoming years are favourable, with a
Accord de Credit no. 3815 of 14th August 2003.
continued growth. In this context, there is an opportunity for the fight against national poverty to make significant
The ongoing priorities of COPIREP have been concerned
progresses. The government expects to increase domestic
with the following duties:
revenue thanks to a tight fiscal policy, while planning to
• Financial sector: enhance the financial intermediation
decrease of national expenditure to 19% of GDP is
with the support of a brainstorming and study group
announced for 2008-2009. The government estimates
massively invest in infrastructures and social sectors. A
meeting on money laundering, the liquidation of three
the fiscal deficit target at around 5% of GDP for the
public banks, namely Banque de Crédit Agricole (BCA),
same period, while experts announce a deficit of 7.5% in
Nouvelle Banque de Kinshasa and Banque Congolaise du
2008 and 8% in 2009. Thanks to the government’ efforts in the rehabilitation
Commerce Extérieur (BCCE). • Mining sector: the popularization of the Mining Code
of the transportation network, the agricultural sector is
and regulations, support for the setting up of the
also expected to grow within the next years. But the
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sector that is expected to explode during the upcoming
In this context, inflation is forecasted at 9% in 2008 and
years is without doubts mining, thanks to increasing
11% in 2009 with average exchange rate of
foreign direct investments. The activities based in metals
FC570:US$1 in 2009. Real GDP growth is estimated at
production and diamond will be the most concerned.
4.6% and 4.7% in 2008 and 2009 respectively
Recorded artisanal diamond production was up by 19% between January and august 2007. Furthermore, the copper production keeps on growing. Many fishermen build shacks along the riverbanks due to overpopulation and inflation in housing prices
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P R O V I N C E S
No matter how full the river, it still wants to grow Congolese saying
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P ROV I N C E S
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BANDUNDU
Precipitation reaches 1,500mm/year. The dry season has one quite long period of dryness with relatively fresh
The province of Bandundu is one of the most industrial
nights, which lasts from two to three months per year.
regions in the country and is the principal granary for Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of
HISTORY
Congo. Bandundu is home to 11.5% of the national population, more than 6 million inhabitants, and has a
The current province of Bandundu was created by
variety of agro-environments, which allows for all types
Presidential Ordinance 66/045 of 4th April 1966 and it is
of agriculture. The proximity of the capital ensures a key
the result of the unification of three provinces in 1964:
outlet for the province.
Kwango, Kwilu and Mai-Ndombe. The city of Bandundu
Chief town: Bandundu
Kikwit. In 2009 it will be divided into three provinces.
became the chief town in 1968, taking the place of
Area: 259,658 km2 Population: Bandundu has around 6,201,000 inhabitants
The population of Kwilu and Kwango is largely made up
(2006).
of immigrants from Angola.
GEOGRAPHY
The province of Bandundu was already known by the Portuguese by 1552 but it was not really explored until
The province of Bandundu covers a total area of 295,658
the nineteenth century. In June 1890 Leopold II created
km2, the same size as Italy or 13% of the country.
the District of Kwango in a territory that was partly
Bandundu has the shape of an irregular polygon between
claimed by Portugal. After negotiations, the treaty of
8° and 1° south latitude and 16° and 21° east longitude
25th May 1891 settled this disagreement. The final bor-
(see map).
ders between Congo and current Angola were decided in 1893.
It shares borders in the north with the province of Equateur, in the south with Angola, in the east with the province of Kasaï, and in the west with the province of Bas-
POLITICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INSTITUTIONS
Congo, the town of Kinshasa and the Republic of Congo. Provincial Assembly Administrative Orga nization
• President of the Assembly: Honourable Guy Musomo
• The province has four districts and two cities: • District of Kwango
Provincial Government
• District of Kwilu
• Governor of the Province: Dr Richard Ndambu W
• District of Maï-Ndombe
• Vice-Governor of the Province: Mr Vicky Mboso
• District of the Plates
ECONOMY
• Town of Bandundu • Town of Kikwit
The province of Bandundu has a very long agricultural Clima te
tradition. The economy of the province is focused prima-
There are two climatic areas: the equatorial area lies to
rily on the development of agricultural activities. Among
the north-east of Lake Maï-Ndombe, characterized by the
the principal food crops, including those exported to the
absence of a regular dry season, and the tropical area,
capital, Kinshasa, are manioc, groundnut, plantain, corn,
which covers the rest of the province of Bandundu with
sweet potato, bean, sesame, marrow, etc. The principal
two well-defined seasons.
industrial crops are palm oil, especially in Kikwit, coffee, hévéa and cocoa. Cattle-breeding on a large scale is only
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found in the districts of Kwango and Plateaux. Fishing on
• Agriculture, fores ts and hydrography: Exploitation: hor-
Lake Mai-Ndombe and the rivers of the province is only
ticulture, food crops, industrial crops (palm oil, coffee,
done on a small scale. Thanks to its forest, which covers
cocoa, hévéa, jatropha, sunflower, sugar cane, colza,
50% of the province, the production of timber is a key
etc.). Production: wood, pulp papers, etc. Farming: agri-
resource. The main trees are wenge, sapelli, iroko, sipo,
cultural, breeding and fishing. Transformation: industrial
tiana and others that are only sold in local markets and
processing of wood. Mechanization of agriculture across
abroad. In the south of the province, a prosperous acti-
the whole province.
vity of small-scale diamond exploitation has been deve-
• Industry: Food, tobacco, chemicals, rubber and plastics,
loped around the territories of Tembo, Kahemba,
cement factory, sugar refinery (at Mushie-Pentane), bio-
Kasongo-lunda, etc.
fuels, etc.
According to the Congolese Investment Code, the pro-
the province.
• Ba nking: Banking and micro-finance institutions across
vince of Bandundu is classified as Economic Zone C.
• T ourism: Development of hotels, management of
Investments approved by the National Agency for the
places of interest, modernization of the Salonga-Sud
Promotion of Investment will benefit from several advan-
Park, construction of lodges.
tages such as tax exemption or special taxation and cus-
• T ra ns port: Rehabilitation of airports (Bandundu/Ville
toms conditions for five years.
and Kikwit) and aerodromes (Kenge, Inongo, Bulungu,
Natural Resources
Lubwe, etc.), creation of joint transport companies
Idiofa, Tembo, Kahemba, Kasongo-Lunda, Nioki, Dibaya
(Bandundu/Ville and Kikwit), equipment, modernization Bandundu has a variety of agro-environments that make
and construction of ports (Bandundu/Ville, Kikwit,
it possible to develop all types of agriculture. The pro-
Bolobo, Mushie, Nioki, Dibaya, Bagata, Bulungu,
vince has enormous possibilities for industrial fishing on
Lusanga, Inongo, etc.), construction of a Kinshasa–
Lake Maï-Ndombe and the many rivers across the pro-
Bandundu–Ilebo railway line, improvement of the naviga-
vince.
bility of the main rivers by dredging and beaconing (Kwa,
The rich forests cover almost 50% of the surface of the
• Ele ctricity a nd wa te r: Extension of the hydroelectric
province; 37 exploitable areas have been identified. The
current (Inga) for the town of Bandundu to the various
Kwango, Kwilu, Kasaï, Lukenie, etc.).
majesty of its rivers, falls and rapids, the beauty of its
cities and provincial towns, construction of micro-dams
landscape, the richness of its folklore, its position as a
to the various falls of the province (Kakobola etc.), impro-
passageway to the rest of the country and its proximity to
vement of the distribution networks for drinking water
Kinshasa are its major tourist assets, which deserve to be
across the province. • Infrastructure: Construction and reconstruction of the
exploited.
main roads of the province, maintenance of agricultural In addition to the confirmed presence of diamonds, the
service roads, construction of the section of railroad
province also has many other minerals waiting to be
Ilebo–Bandundu–Kinshasa, rehabilitation of the riverba-
explored (iron, coltan, pyrite, agate, sapphire, etc). There
sins.
are also indications of oil reservoirs (in the central basin).
• T elecommunica tions: Rehabilitation of the OCPT cable
Exploration began in the region of Oshwe in the 1980s.
network, deployment of the cable network for fixed telephones.
Investment Opportunities
• Buildings , public works and environment: Construction, rehabilitation and equipping of the basic infrastructure
• Mines and hydrocarbons: Diamond, gold pyrite, coltan,
(schools, hospitals, residential buildings), administrative
iron, oil, plus further geological and mineral exploration
buildings and commercial buildings, construction of low-
of the region.
rent houses in various urban centres.
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CONTACTS
• Ville of Boma • Ville of Matadi
Bandundu Commerce a nd Indus try P romotion Chamber (CPIB)
Climate
Director; Mr Guillaume Purbuar
The climate in Bas-Congo is mainly tropical with four
Cities of Bandundu, Kikwit, Bulungu, Kenge, Bolobo,
months of dry season and a long rainy season that is nor-
Inongo
mally interrupted by a short dry season in February.
Tel: +243-81-9071176 / 81-5254113 / 81-2070260 /
Annual
99-8963016
1,500mm.
precipitation
measures
from
900mm
to
Email: cpibrdc2@yahoo.fr
HISTORY
Website: www.cpib-rdc.org
Fe dera tion of Companies of Congo /
This province was discovered by the Portuguese at the
Provincial Dire ctory of Bandundu
end of the fifteenth century. Most of the historical expe-
Tel: +243 81 5159187
ditions into the country took place in Bas-Congo. Thanks to its port, it was also the first economic centre of the
BAS-CONGO
country. The first capital of the Congo Free State was Vivi and then Boma. Finally, Leopoldville (the current
The province of Bas-Congo is the main entry point to the
Kinshasa) became the capital of the whole country.
Congo. It is the smallest province of the country after Kinshasa. This small region is also the richest after Katanga.
This province is also the most revolutionary. In 1950 ABAKO (cultural association of Bakongo) started the first movements towards emancipation and nationalism.
Chief town: Matadi
Thanks to its political influence, the country had its first
Area: 5,920km2
President, Joseph Kasa-Vubu.
Population: The province of the Bas-Congo has around
POLITICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INSTITUTIONS
3,615,000 inhabitants (2006).
GEOGRAPHY Provincial Government The province of Bas-Congo has a total area of 53,920km2
• Governor of the Province: Dr Richard Ndambu
around the same size as Croatia, that is 2.3% of the
• Vice-Governor of the Province: Mr Vicky Mboso
whole country. Bas-Congo is located between 4º and 6º south latitude and 12º and 16º east longitude.
ECONOMY
It shares borders with the Republic of Congo in the north,
Agriculture is the principal economic activity of Bas-
Angola in the south, the province of Bandundu in the east
Congo. Crops include manioc, groundnuts, corn, beans,
and Cabinda in the west. The Bas-Congo is the only pro-
bananas and various citrus fruits. Cattle-breeding is also
vince with access to the ocean and has a 40km coastline.
important. Bas-Congo is also the entry and exit point for most of the goods imported or exported by the DRC,
Administrative Orga nization
thanks to the port of Matadi.
The province has three districts and two cities: • District of Bas-Fleuve
The industrial sector of the province includes sugar in
• District of Cataractes
Kwilu-Ngongo, a brewery in Boma, a flour mill in Matadi,
• District of Lukaya
an oil refinery in Moanda, and cement factories in Lukala
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and Kimpese. Hydroelectric energy produced at Zongo,
development because of the presence in the province of
especially at Inga, provides electricity for the provinces of
historic, economic and natural sites such as the caves of
Bas-Congo, Bandundu (town of Bandundu), Kinshasa
Mbanza-Ngungu, the Inga Falls and several other natural
and Katanga. Congo Brazzaville, Angola, Zambia and
attractions.
Zimbabwe are also connected to the Inga supply.
Investment Opportunities According to the Congolese Investment Code, the province of Bandundu is classified as Economic Zone B.
• Mines and hydrocarbons : Bauxite, iron, manganese,
Investments approved by the National Agency for the
gold, oil, bituminous schists, plus further geological and
Promotion of Investment will benefit from several advan-
mineral exploration of the region.
tages such as tax exemption or special taxation and cus-
• Agriculture, fores ts and hydrography: Exploitation: horticulture, food crops, industrial crops (palm oil, coffee,
toms conditions for four years.
cocoa, hévéa, jatropha, sunflower, sugar cane, colza,
Natural Resources
etc.). Production: wood. Mechanization of agriculture
The Bas-Congo is located in the best of geographical
• Industry: Food, tobacco, leather, chemicals, biofuels,
situations:
etc.
• Easy access to large markets such as Kinshasa with
• Ba nking: Banking and micro-finance institutions across
nearly 8 million consumers and the north of Angola with
the province.
towns such as Soyo and the enclave of Cabinda. The eco-
• T ourism: Development of hotels, management of
nomic dynamism of the province is based on good basic
places of interest, modernization of the Salonga-Sud
infrastructure such as the trunk road between Matadi
Park, construction of lodges.
across the province
and Kinshasa and the rail network connecting the two
• T ra ns port: Rehabilitation of airports (Bandundu/Ville
cities, as well as the seaports of Matadi and Boma.
and Kikwit) and aerodromes (Kenge, Inongo, Bulungu,
• The exceptional natural energy resources of Inga on the
Idiofa, Tembo, Kahemba, Kasongo-Lunda, Nioki, Dibaya
Congo River gives the province a special importance. Inga
Lubwe, etc.), creation of joint transport companies
has the greatest concentration of hydroelectric energy in
(Bandundu/Ville and Kikwit), equipment, modernization
the world (44,000MW of exploitable power). Several pro-
and construction of ports (Bandundu/Ville, Kikwit,
jects foresee the redistribution of the electricity produced
Bolobo, Mushie, Nioki, Dibaya, Bagata, Bulungu,
at Inga to other parts of Africa, in particular to Southern
Lusanga, Inongo, etc.), construction of a Kinshasa–
Africa, Lagos and Cairo.
Bandundu–Ilebo railway line.
• The diversified climate makes it possible to develop
• Ele ctricity a nd wa te r: Extension of the hydroelectric
various kinds of agricultural products and livestock. The
current (Inga) for the town of Bandundu to the various
forest of Mayombe, although damaged by overexploita-
cities and provincial towns, construction of micro-dams
tion, still offers some possibilities for agroforestry.
to the various falls of the province (Kakobola, etc.),
Industrial deepwater fishing is possible but it is limited
improvement of the distribution networks for drinking
because of the narrowness of the Congolese coastal
water across the province.
band. However, it can be extended to the exclusive eco-
• Infrastructure: Construction and reconstruction of the
nomic zones of Namibia and Angola under the terms of
main roads of the province, maintenance of agricultural
the Convention of the Regional Fisheries Committee
service roads, construction of the section of railroad
(COREP) and that of the SADC.
Ilebo–Bandundu–Kinshasa, rehabilitation of the river
• The mining resources of the province include onshore
basins.
and offshore oil, gas deposits and important deposits of
• T elecommunica tions: Rehabilitation of the OCPT cable
bituminous schisms, bauxite and other unexploited ores.
network, deployment of the cable network for fixed tele-
• Ecotourism and economic tourism offer possibilities for
phones.
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• Buildings, public work s and environme nt: Construction,
Adminis trative Organization
rehabilitation and equipping of the basic infrastructure
The province has five districts and three cities:
(schools, hospitals, residential buildings), administrative
• District of Equateur
buildings and commercial buildings, construction of low-
• District of Mongala
rent houses in various urban centres.
• District of Nord-Ubangi • District of Sud-Ubangi
CONTACTS
• District of Tshuapa • City of Mbandaka (Provincial capital)
Fe dera tion of Companies of Congo (FE C) /
• City of Gbadolite
Provincial Dire ctory of Bas-Congo
• City of Zongo
National President: Mr. Albert Yuma Mulimbi 2777 Avenue Kisangani (Ville Basse)
Climate
Commune de Matadi
Equateur province is an area of forests, rain and heat. The
B.P. 118, Matadi
climate is clearly influenced by the position of the pro-
Tel: +243-81-5159187
vince on the equator, where the sun is always at its
Email: adlutubana@yahoo.fr
zenith. Rainfall is continuous (annual average of 2,000mm) and the strong wet heat never varies.
EQUATEUR HISTORY The province of Equateur is, after Province Orientale and Katanga, the third-biggest province of the country. It
The province is particularly noted for rubber production,
shares borders to the north and east with the Oubangui
which was a key sector until the end of the nineteenth
River, which is also the territorial limit with the Republic
century under King Léopold II.
of Central Africa and the Republic of the Congo. To finance the development of Congo, the Congo Free Chief town: Mbandaka
State furthered the exploitation of rubber, increasingly
Area: 403,292km2 (Similar to that of Sweden)
required by the young motor-car industry.
Population: Equateur has around 8,000,000 inhabitants
POLITICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INSTITUTIONS
(2006).
GEOGRAPHY Provincial Government The province of Equateur is located between 5º north
• Governor of the Province: Son Excellence Monsieur José
latitude and 2º south latitude and 16º and 25º east lon-
Makila Sumanda.
gitude. This province occupies the north-west part of the
• Vice-Governor of the Province: Son Excellence
country.
Monsieur Jean Claude Baende Etafe Eliko.
It shares borders with Republic of the Congo to the west,
ECONOMY
Central African Republic to the north, Province Orientale to the east and Kasaï-Oriental, Kasï-Occidental and
Located on both sides of the equator, the province of
Bandundu provinces to the south.
Equateur benefits from favourable climatic conditions for agriculture because it rains practically all year. With its varied vegetation, cattle-breeding is possible across the
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w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
province but especially in the north where there is
• Transport: International airport of Gbado lite and aero-
savanna. With 800 fish species identified, fishing is prac-
dromes (of Mbandaka, of Gemena, Basankusu, Lisala,
tised year-round. The main fishing area in the province is
Boende, Bumba and Libenge), and various important
between Lisala and the channel of Irebu, with 42,442km2
ports along the Congo river (Mbandaka, Bumba, and
of river surface.
Lisala). • Ele ctricity a nd wa te r: Extension of the hydroelectric
The agriculture of the province has long contributed to
current (Mobayi-Mbongo) for the various cities and pro-
50% of the budget of the Congolese state through its
vincial towns, improvement of the distribution networks
various food crops and industrial products, such as
for drinking water across the province.
manioc, corn, rice, groundnut, palm oil, coffee, cocoa,
• Infrastructure: Construction and repair of the principal
cotton, hévéa, etc. The industrial plantations are for the
road networks of the province, maintenance of agricul-
moment abandoned and require rehabilitation and new
tural service roads. • T elecommunica tions: Rehabilitation of the OCPT cable
capital expenditure.
network, deployment of the cable network for fixed teleThe forests of the province cover an area of 356,720km2,
phones.
72% of the country’s forest. It contains 250 exploitable
• Buildings , public works and environment: Construction,
forest areas and 34 potentially exploitable species,
rehabilitation and equipping of the basic infrastructure
though only some have yet been the object of an inten-
(schools, hospitals, residential buildings), administrative
sive exploitation. In 2006 the occupied forest concessions
buildings and commercial buildings, construction of low-
covered a surface of 11,805,831ha.
rent houses in various urban centres.
According to the Congolese Investment Code, the pro-
CONTACTS
vince of Equateur is classified as Economic Zone C. The investments approved by the National Agency for the
Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie de l’Equa te ur
Promotion of Investment will benefit from several advan-
(CCIE) / Industry a nd Commerce Chambe r of Equateur
tages such as tax exemption or special taxation and cus-
Ville de Mbandaka
toms conditions for five years.
Tel: +243-99-8713050 Email: chbrccie@yahoo.fr
Investment Opportunities Fédération des Entreprise s du Congo (FEC) / • Mine s and hydroca rbons: Diamonds, plus further geo-
Dire ction Provinciale de l’Equateur
logical and mineral exploration of the region.
National President: Mr. Albert Yuma Mulimbi
• Agriculture, forests and hydrography: Exploitation: hor-
Federation of Companies of Congo
ticulture, food crops, industrial crops (palm oil, coffee,
Ville de Mbandaka
cocoa, hévéa, jatropha, cotton etc.). Production: wood.
B.P. 73, Mbandaka
Mechanization of agriculture across the province
Tel: +243-81-7302988
• Indus try: Food, tobacco, leather, chemicals, biofuels, natural rubber, etc. • Banking: Banking and micro-finance institutions across the province. • Tourism: Development of hotels, management of places of interest, modernization of the Salonga-Sud Park, construction of lodges.
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KINSHASA
Climate The climate of the province of Kinshasa is mainly tropical,
Kinshasa is a city and also a province. It is mainly French-
with two different seasons: dry season and rainy season.
speaking and is the largest town in sub-Saharan Africa.
HISTORY It extends over 30km east to west and more than 15km north to south. A great part of the province of Kinshasa
To begin with, Kinshasa was only a small village where
is rural and covered with grassy savanna strewn with
Batéké fishermen used to live, under the authority of the
shrubs. The population living in rural areas is a little less
Ngaliema Chief, known for his insubordination to the
than 10%.
King of Batéké. In 1881 Henri Morton Stanley founded Kitambo there, which in 1882 became Léopoldville. It is
The town of Kinshasa is the mirror of the Democratic
probably because of its strategic position that it was
Republic of Congo. All actions taken to develop the
decided to transfer the capital from Boma to Léopoldville:
country start in Kinshasa, where the majority of services
it is next to Brazzaville, gateway to French equatorial
are based. For a long time, the capital was seen as repre-
Africa, and is at the crossroads of several transportation
senting the whole of the country by many of its leaders.
routes (navigable rivers, as well as the railway line con-
This is why it is a normal reaction of the inhabitants of
necting the town to the port). After independence, the
the interior of the country to say that Kinshasa is not
city underwent an unprecedented demographic explo-
Congo.
sion and Kinshasa was confirmed in its role of capital of the country.
Chief town: Kinshasa Area: 9,965km2 Population: Kinshasa has around 7,500,000 inhabitants
POLITICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INSTITUTIONS
(2006). Provincial Government
GEOGRAPHY
• Governor of the Province: Mr André Kimbuta
The city and province of Kinshasa shares borders with
ECONOMY
Bundundu to the north, Bas-Congo to the south and Republic of Congo to the west. Most of the area of
For investors, Kinshasa offers lots of opportunities in
Kinshasa is made up of rural landscapes. The average alti-
several sectors: agriculture, fishing, transport of people
tude of the city is 300m.
and goods, electrical energy, drinking water, services
Administrative Orga nization
goods for construction, pharmaceutical industry, tourism,
The province of Kinshasa has four districts and two main
health, education, etc.
(banking, insurance and social security), food industry,
cities: • District of Funa
According to the Congolese Investment Code, the pro-
• District of Lukunga
vince of Kinshasa is classified as Economic Zone A.
• District of Mont-Amba
Investments approved by the National Agency for the
• District of Tshangu
Promotion of Investment will benefit from several advan-
• City of Kinshasa
tages such as tax exemption or special taxation and cus-
• Cit of Kingansana
toms conditions for three years.
The investment climate in the DRC has undergone substantial changes in recent years, and most of the old legis-
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lation has been replaced by an investment code that
CONTACTS
better reflects the demands of a modern investment enviFederation of Companies of Congo
ronment.
Mr Henri Yav Mulang Mulang In an effort to encourage development outside Kinshasa,
General Manager
the duration of the tax exemptions varies between three
Central Administration
and five years depending on the location of the com-
Avenue des Aviateurs 10, Commune de la Gombe,
pany:
Kinshasa
• Three years if the company is situated in Zone A:
Tel: +243-81-8959001 / 81-8114335 / 81-5136598 /
Kinshasa
99-8114372
• Four years for companies located in Zone B: Bas-Congo,
Email: fecongo@hotmail.com
Lubumbashi, Likasi and Kolwezi.
Website: www.fec.cd
• Five years for companies located in Zone C: Bandundu, Equateur, Western Kasaï, Eastern Kasaï, Maniema,
Chambre de Commerce et de Promotion Industrielle du
Northern Kivu, Southern Kivu, Eastern Province and
Bandundu (CP IB) / Indus tria l Promotion and Commerce Chamber of Ba ndundu
Katanga
Avenue Basoko 16, Commune de la Gombe, Kinshasa
Investment Opportunities
Tel: +243-81-9071176 / 81-5254113 / 81-2070260 / 99-8963016
• Agriculture, forests and hydrography: Exploitation: hor-
Email: cpibrdc2@yahoo.fr
ticulture, food crops, industrial crops (palm oil, coffee,
Website: www.cpib-rdc.org (en cours)
cocoa, hévéa, jatropha, cotton etc.). Production: wood. • Tourism: Development of hotels, management of
Agence Nationale pour la Promotion des Inve stisse ments
places of interest, modernization of the Salonga-Sud
(ANAPI)
Park, construction of lodges.
Avenue Colonel Ebeya 54, 2ème Niveau de l’Imm. de la
• Transport: Rehabilitation of airports (Ndolo and N’Djili),
Reconstruction, Commune de la Gombe, Kinshasa
creation of joint transport companies, equipment,
Tel: +243-99-9925026 / 81-6996584
modernization and construction of the port of Kinshasa.
Email: anapirdc@yahoo.fr / anapirdc@anapi.org
• Electricity and water: Extension of the hydroelectric
Website: www.anapi.org
current to the whole city and provincial towns, improvement of the distribution networks for drinking water
Office de P romotion des P etites et Moyennes Entrepris es
throughout the city.
Congolaises (OPEC)
• Infrastructure: Construction and repair of the principal
bld. du 30 juin, Building le Royal,
road networks of the province, maintenance of agricul-
Commune de la Gombe, Kinshasa
tural service roads.
Tel: +243-99-9944598
• Te lecommunications: Rehabilitation of the OCPT cable
Email: opec_rdc@yahoo.fr
network, deployment of the cable network for fixed teleAss ociation Na tiona le des Entrepris es du Porte feuille
phones across the city. • Buildings, public work s and environme nt: Construction,
(ANEP )
rehabilitation and equipping of the basic infrastructure
Avenue de la Justice 77/A, Commune de la Gombe,
(schools, hospitals, residential buildings), administrative
Kinshasa
buildings and commercial buildings, construction of low-
Tel: +243-99-9945595 / 99-9945589
rent houses in various urban centres.
Email: association_anep@yahoo.fr
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HISTORY
Ileka Consulting Hugues Henri Ileka S. General Director
The province of Kasaï-Occidental has its roots in the old
Galerie Utexafrica, Commune de la Gombe, Kinshasa
province of Kasaï when the Kasaï River was discovered by
Tel: +243-81-4706408
the German explorers Pogge and Wiseman. After admi-
Email: ilekahenri@yahoo.fr
nistrative reform in 1967 the province was divided into two different provinces, Kasaï-Occidental and Kasaï-
Website: www.ilekaconsulting.com
Oriental. On 24th June 1967, the date of the enactment
KASAÏ-OCCIDENTAL
of the new Constitution, the province of Kasaï-Occidental with its current borders was officially recognized.
The province of Kasaï-Occidental is located in the centre of the southern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The mountains of the province are part of the cir-
POLITICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INSTITUTIONS
cumference of the Congolese central basin. Provincial Government The northern part of the province, located north of the
• Governor of the Province: Mr Trésor Kapuku Ngoy
fourth parallel, is largely a lowland area, with altitude varying between 500m and 1,000m.
ECONOMY
Chief town: Kananga
In Kasaï-Occidental the traditional economy is focused on
Area: 156,967km2
the agricultural sector. Crops include corn, manioc, rice,
Population: Kasaï-Occidental has around 6,300,000 inha-
haricot bean, banana, etc. Among the industrial crops
bitants (2006).
are palm oil, cotton, coffee, hévéa and tobacco. Palm oil
GEOGRAPHY
animal breeding and cattle breeding is also popular in the
is especially cultivated in the forest belts. In Kasaï small
savannas of the south of the province. However, the ecoThe province of Kasaï-Occidental is located at 2°28’ and
nomy of Kasaï is based primarily on diamonds.
8°3‘ south and 19°40’ and 23°41’ east. According to the Congolese Investment Code, the proIt shares borders with the provinces of Kasaï-Oriental to
vince of Kasaï-Oriental is classified as Economic Zone C.
the east, Equateur to the north, Bandundu to the west,
Investments approved by the National Agency for the
and Katanga and Angola to the south.
Promotion of Investment will benefit from several advan-
Administrative Orga nization
toms conditions for five years.
tages such as tax exemption or special taxation and cus-
The province has two districts and one city:
Natural Resources
• District of Kasaï • District of Lulua • City of Kananga
The agricultural potential of the province is very impor-
Clima te
and animal production. The territories of Luiza,
The province of Kasaï-Occidental has an equatorial cli-
Dimbelenge, Mewka and Dekese have a very rich soil,
mate in the north and a Sudanian climate in the south.
which is ideal for permanent crops such as hévéa, cocoa
tant. The agro-climatic conditions are favourable to crop
Temperatures vary from 15°C to 32°C.
and palm oil. Despite the presence of sandy soils in the territories of Demba, Kazumba, Tshikapa and Luebo, Kasaï-Occidental also has some of the best arable land in
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the valley and at the foothills are some of the best places
• E lectricity and water: Distribution of electricity to the
for growing corn, groundnut and soya.
various cities and provincial towns, construction of the hydroelectric power station at Katende (Kananga),
Cattle, goat and sheep farming has expanded into the
improvement of the distribution networks for drinking
areas of the savanna (Tshikapa) and also in the big urban
water throughout the province.
centres (Kananga), where the population also keep pigs
• Infrastructure: Construction and repair of the principal road networks of the province, maintenance of the agricul-
and chicken.
tural service roads, construction of the section of railroad Kasaï-Occidental has mineral resources and Tshikapa is
Ilebo–Bandundu–Kinshasa, rehabilitation of the river basins.
one of the principal sources of jewellery diamonds in the
• T elecommunica tions: Rehabilitation of the OCPT cable
world.
network, deployment of the cable network for fixed telephone across the city.
The province also has a very important hydroelectric
• Buildings , public works and environment: Construction,
potential with the Kasaï River and its tributaries Lulua,
rehabilitation and equipping of the basic infrastructure
Sankuru and Lukenie. Other rivers such as the Lubudi
(schools, hospitals, residential buildings), administrative
offer possibilities for the installation of hydroelectric
buildings and commercial buildings, construction of low-
plants (Katende site). The National Park at Salonga,
rent houses in various urban centres.
which covers about half of the territory of Dekese, is rich in flora and fauna. An estimated 15% is used for timber
CONTACTS
production. Places of interest to tourists include the sanctuary Kuba de Mweka (Kuba statues and art).
Fédération des Entreprise s du Congo (FEC) /
Investment Opportunities
Avenue Likasi 2 (Q./Matadi), Commune de Kananga,
Dire ction Provinciale du Ka saï-Occide ntal
Kananga • M ines and hydrocarbons: Diamonds and iron, among
B.P. 192, Kananga
others, plus further geological and mineral exploration of
Tel: +243-99-7343200
the region. • Agriculture, forests and hydrography: Exploitation: hor-
KASAÏ-ORIENTAL
ticulture, food crops, industrial crops (palm oil, jatropha, sunflower, coffee, hévéa, sugar cane, colza, etc.).
The Province of Kasaï-Oriental is located in the heart of
Production: wood. Farming: agricultural, breeding and
the Democratic Republic of Congo. The province is
fishing.
Transformation:
processing
of
wood.
named after the Kasaï River, the second-biggest tributary of the Congo River after Ubangi. The chief town of the
Mechanization of agriculture across the province. • Industry: Food, tobacco, chemicals, rubber and plastics,
province of Kasaï-Oriental, Mbuji-Mayi, is one of the big-
sugar refinery (Luiza), biofuels, etc.
gest urban zones of the country and the shopping centre
• Banking: Banking and micro-finance institutions across
of the province, which supplies a third of the world pro-
the province.
duction of industrial diamonds.
• Tourism: Development of hotels, management of places of interest, modernization of the Salonga-Sud
It is also an agricultural and cattle-raising province. Crops
Park, construction of lodges.
include corn, manioc, beans, soya, groundnut, etc.
• Transport: Rehabilitation of airports (Kananga) and aerodromes (Tshikapa, etc.), creation of joint transport
Chief town: Mbuji-Mayi
companies (Kananga), equipping and modernization of
Area: 173,110km2
the port of Ilebo, construction of a Kinshasa–Bandundu–
Population: Kasaï-Oriental has around 3,830,000 inhabi-
Ilebo railway line.
tants (2006).
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GEOGRAPHY
palm oil, cotton, coffee, hévéa and tobacco. Palm oil is especially cultivated in the forest belts. In Kasaï small
Kasaï-Oriental shares borders with the provinces of Kasaï-
animal breeding and cattle breeding are also popular in
Occidental to the west, Equateur to the north, Province
the savannas in the south of the province.
Orientale to the north-east, Maniema to the east, Katanga to the south-east and Angola to the south.
According to the Congolese Investment Code, the province of Kasaï-Oriental is classified as Economic Zone C.
Administrative Orga nization
Investments approved by the National Agency for the
This province has three districts and two cities:
Promotion of Investment will benefit from several advan-
• District of Kabinda
tages such as tax exemption or special taxation and cus-
• District of Mwene-Ditu
toms conditions for five years.
• District of Sankuru
Investment Opportunities
• City of Mbuji-Mayi • City of Mwene-Ditu
• Mine s and hydrocarbons: Diamonds and iron, among Clima te
others plus further geological and mineral exploration of
The province of Kasaï-Oriental benefits from a tropical
the region.
wet climate, characterized by two dominant seasons,
• Agriculture, fores ts and hydrography: Exploitation: hor-
namely the long rainy season that lasts nine months and
ticulture, food crops, industrial crops (palm oil, jatropha, sunflower, coffee, hévéa, sugar cane, colza, etc.).
the dry season that lasts three months.
Production: wood. Farming: agricultural, breeding and
HISTORY
fishing. Transformation: Industrial processing of wood.
Kasaï-Oriental has its origins in the old province of Kasaï.
• Industry: Food, tobacco, chemicals, rubber and plastics,
The administrative reforms of 1967 set up new territorial
sugar refinery (Luiza), biofuels, etc.
boundaries which divided the old province of Kasaï into
• Ba nking: Banking and micro-finance institutions across
Mechanization of agriculture across the province.
two new distinct provinces, Kasaï-Occidental and Kasaï-
the province.
Oriental. On 24th June 1967, the date of promulgation of
• T ourism: Development of hotels, management of
the new Constitution, the province of Kasaï-Occidental was
places of interest, modernization of the Salonga-sud
recognized with its current administrative configuration.
Park, construction of lodges.
POLITICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INSTITUTIONS
aerodromes (Tshikapa, etc.), creation of joint transport
• Tra ns port: Rehabilitation of airports (Kananga) and
companies (Kananga), equipping and modernization of the port of Ilebo, construction of a Kinshasa–Bandundu–
Provincial Gove rnme nt
Ilebo railway line. • E lectricity and water: Distribution of electricity to the
• Governor of the Province: Mr Trésor Kapuku Ngoy
various cities and provincial towns, construction of the
ECONOMY
hydroelectric power station of Katende (Kananga), improvement of the distribution networks for drinking
The economy of Kasaï-Oriental is based primarily on dia-
water throughout the province.
monds, while the traditional economy is based on agri-
• Infrastructure: Construction and repair of the principal road networks of the province, maintenance of the agri-
culture.
cultural service roads, construction of the section of railThe food crops in Kasaï-Oriental include corn, manioc,
road Ilebo–Bandundu–Kinshasa, rehabilitation of the
rice, beans, banana, etc. Among the industrial crops are
river basins.
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• Te lecommunications: Rehabilitation of the OCPT cable
Adminis trative Organization
network, deployment of the cable network for fixed tele-
The province has four districts and three cities:
phones across the city.
• District of Haut-Katanga
• Buildings, public work s and environme nt: Construction,
• District of Haut-Lomami
rehabilitation and equipping of the basic infrastructure
• District of Lualaba
(schools, hospitals, residential buildings), administrative
• District of Tanganyika
buildings and commercial buildings, construction of low-
• City of Lubumbashi
rent houses in various urban centres.
• City of Likasi • City of Kolwezi
CONTACTS Climate Fé déra tion des E ntreprises du Congo (FE C) /
The province of Katanga primarily has two types of cli-
Direction P rovinciale du Kasa ï-Orie ntal
mate: one tropical wet and the other moderate heat. The
Avenue Lubi 2 bis, Commune de Likasi, Mbuji-Mayi
dry season varies between four and six months as you
B.P. 1143 Mbuji-Mayi
move away from the equator. The annual average rainfall
Tel: +243-99-7312771 / 81-3330046 / 99-7313830
is roughly 1,280mm.
Chambre de Comme rce et d’Industrie du Gra nd Ka saï
In the south and south-east of Katanga, the rainy season
(CCIGK)
starts in mid-October and lasts until mid-May. In the
Tel: +243 81 0871667
mountainous areas of the east, the two dry seasons last
Email: lut-willy@yahoo.fr
only one month, in January and July. In northern Katanga the rains begin at the start of October and cease at the
KATANGA
end of April, but there is a small dry season in January.
The province of Katanga is the second-largest province in
The annual average temperature is approximately 24°C.
the Democratic Republic of Congo after Province Orientale. Katanga was called Shaba during the second
HISTORY
republic of Marshal Mobutu, which is Swahili for copper. Beginning in the seventeenth century, the province was Katanga has important potential resources in agriculture,
controlled by the Luba Empire and Lunda Kingdom, which spawned a migration of warriors and tribes into
fishing, mines and energy, etc.
neighbouring regions. The Bemba, Kazembe-Lunda,
GEOGRAPHY
Kanongesha-Lunda and Lozi in Zambia are just some of the people who trace their origins to Katanga.
The province of Katanga shares borders with the provinces of Maniema to the north, Kasaï to the north-west, Kivu-Sud to the south, and Angola to the west and
POLITICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INSTITUTIONS
south-west, Zambia to the south and south-east, and Tanzania to the east.
P rovincial Assembly • President of the Assembly: Honourable Député Kyungu
Population Katanga has around 8,000,000 inhabitants (2006).
P rovincial Government: • Governor of the Province: Mr Moise Katumbi
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P ROV I N C E S
eBizguides DRC
ECONOMY
• E lectricity and water: Distribution of electricity to the various cities and provincial towns, improvement of the
The province of Katanga has among its principal activities
distribution networks for drinking water throughout the
mining, manufacturing industry, agriculture, trade, fish-
province.
ing and animal breeding. Since 1990, because of multiple
• Infrastructure: Construction and repair of the principal
political changes, economic activity has reduced conside-
road networks of the province, maintenance of the agri-
rably, which has led to a strong degradation of all the
cultural service roads, construction of the section of rail-
vital sectors and particularly the basic infrastructure. As a
road Ilebo–Bandundu–Kinshasa, rehabilitation of the
result several companies have closed, as well as commer-
river basins.
cial mining operations, thus leaving many people without
• T ele communica tions: Rehabilitation of the OCPT cable
employment.
network, deployment of the cable network for fixed telephones across the city.
The province of Katanga, in its current configuration, is
• Buildings , public works a nd environment: Construction,
seeking to revitalize the economy while also restoring
rehabilitation and equipping of the basic infrastructure
agricultural activities and rehabilitating the basic infras-
(schools, hospitals, residential buildings), administrative
tructure.
buildings and commercial buildings, construction of lowrent houses in various urban centres.
According to the Congolese Investment Code, the province of Katanga is classified as Economic Zone B
CONTACTS
(Lubumbashi, Likasi and Kolwezi). Investments approved by the National Agency for the Promotion of Investment
Fédération des Entreprise s du Congo (FEC) /
will benefit from several advantages such as tax exemp-
Dire ction Provinciale du Ka tanga
tion or special taxation and customs conditions for four
Avenue Tabora 9550, Commune de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi
years.
B.P. 1500 Lubumbashi
Investment Opportunities
Tel: +243-99-7025859 Email: feckat@yahoo.fr
• Mine s and hydrocarbons: Copper, gold, niobium and columbium, manganese, coal, tin, zinc, plus further geo-
MANIEMA
logical and mining exploration across Katanga. • Agriculture, forests and hydrography: Exploitation: hor-
The province of Maniema is an average-sized province of
ticulture, food crops, industrial crops (jatropha, sun-
the Democratic Republic of Congo. Its surface area is six
flower, etc.). Farming: agricultural, breeding and fishing.
times that of Belgium. Formerly an important rice source
Mechanization of agriculture across the province
of Congo, with an important potential in agricultural pro-
• Industry: Food, leather, chemicals, biofuels, etc.
ducts, the prosperity of Maniema depends largely on
• Banking: Banking and micro-finance institutions across
transporting its products to the large urban centres and
the province.
on industrialization of Congo.
• Tourism: Development of hotels, management of places of interest, modernization of the parks, construc-
Chief town: Kindu
tion of lodges.
Area: 132,250km2
• T ransport: Rehabilitation of the airport (Lubumbashi)
Population: Maniema has around 1,802,913 inhabitants
and aerodromes, creation of joint transport companies
(2006).
(Lubumbashi, Likasi and Kolwezi), equipment, modernization and construction of the ports, rehabilitation of the railway lines.
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GEOGRAPHY
and a variety of land types. In the north crops include cocoa, palm oil and coffee, and in the south cotton and
The province of Maniema shares borders with the pro-
coffee. Food crops are grown everywhere.
vinces of Kasaï-Oriental to the west, Province Orientale to the north, Kivu-Nord and Kivu-Sud to the east, and
According to the Congolese Investment Code, the pro-
Katanga to the south.
vince of Maniema is classified as Economic Zone C. Investments approved by the National Agency for the
Administra tive Orga nization
Promotion of Investment will benefit from several advan-
The province of Maniema is part of the old province of
tages such as tax exemption or special taxation and cus-
Kivu. Having been itself a subregion of Kivu, this new
toms conditions for five years.
province does not include districts but only the territories
Investment Opportunities
in its administrative subdivision. • Territory of Kabambare
• Mines and hydrocarbons: Coltan, niobium and colum-
• Territory of Kailo • Territory of Kasongo
bium, zinc and cassiterite, plus further geological and
• Territory of Kibombo
mining exploration across the province.
• Territory of Lubutu
• Agriculture, fores ts and hydrography: Exploitation: hor-
• Territory of Pangi
ticulture, food crops, industrial crops (coffee, tea, hévéa,
• Territory of Punia
jatropha, sunflower, etc.). Farming: agricultural, breeding
• City of Kindu
and fishing. Mechanization of agriculture across the province.
Clima te
• Industry: Food, tobacco, leather, chemicals, biofuels.
In the province of Maniema there are two types of cli-
• Ba nking: Banking and micro-finance institutions across
mate: equatorial in the north and tropical in the centre
the province.
and the south.
• T ourism: Development of hotels, management of places of interest, modernization of the parks, construc-
HISTORY
tion of lodges. • T ransport: Rehabilitation of the airport (Kindu) and
Maniema has a strong Muslim influence. It was a former
aerodromes, creation of joint transport companies.
slave-trading centre, and the well-known slave dealer
• E lectricity and water: Distribution of electricity to the various cities and provincial towns, improvement of the
Tippo Tip made Kindu its capital.
distribution networks for drinking water throughout the On an administrative level, the province of Maniema was
province. • Infrastructure: Construction and repair of the principal
created under ordinance 88-031 of 20th July 1988.
road networks of the province, maintenance of the agri-
POLITICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INSTITUTIONS
cultural service roads and rehabilitation of the river basins. • T elecommunica tions: Rehabilitation of the OCPT cable
Provincial Gove rnment:
network, deployment of the cable network for fixed tele-
• Governor of the Province: Mr Didier Manara
phones across the city.
ECONOMY
rehabilitation and equipping of the basic infrastructure
• Buildings , public works and environment: Construction,
(schools, hospitals, residential buildings), administrative The economy in Maniema concentrates especially on
buildings and commercial buildings, construction of low-
agriculture. The province has three agro-ecological zones
rent houses in various urban centres.
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CONTACTS
Climate The varied landscape of Kivu-Nord’s lowlands and high
Fé déra tion des E ntreprises du Congo (FE C) /
plains produces a large variety of climates. In general
Direction P rovinciale du M anie ma
there is a gentle and moderate climate with temperatures
B.P. 46 Kindu
varying between 13°C and 33°C.
Tel: +243-81-3288101
HISTORY
KIVU-NORD The old province of Kivu is probably the province of The province of Kivu-Nord has great soil fertility and eco-
Congo that has seen most administrative changes. In
logical conditions favourable to industrial crops, food and
1909 the province of Kivu was absorbed by the immense
breeding livestock and poultry.
Province Orientale. After several administrative changes,
This is the last province in DRC to continue to face pro-
Maniema, Kivu-Nord and Kivu-Sud. The political environ-
blems with rebels in the eastern parts. Kivu-Nord is
ment of Kivu-Nord has suffered during 13 years of severe
the province was recently redefined in three parts:
known across the world for its natural beauty and natural
political change and wars, for which the population had
tourist natural, in particular its parks. In recent years this
to pay a heavy price. Despite the current reunification
region has lost almost all its infrastructure and access to
and reconcilitation of the country, Kivu-Nord still suffers
resources.
insecurity, which prevents the population from freely undertaking their occupations. The uncontrolled armed
Chief town: Goma
groups are not yet completely neutralized. A programme
Area: 59,000km2
of demobilization and reintegration of the rebellious sol-
Population: Maniema has around 5,000,000 inhabitants
diers and militia is still in force.
(2006).
ECONOMY GEOGRAPHY The climate of Kivu and the richness of its soils make this The province of Kivu-Nord is located on the equator bet-
province one of the most fertile in the Democratic
ween 0°58’ north and 2°03’ south. It shares borders with
Republic of Congo.
the Republics of Uganda to the east and Rwanda to the south-east. Its neighbouring provinces are to the north
Agriculture therefore holds an important place in the
and west the Province Orientale, to the south Kivu-Sud
economy, and formerly large farms exported many pro-
and to the south-west Maniema.
ducts such as tea. Today the recurring conflicts at the border have strongly influenced the agricultural econo-
Administrative Orga nization
mics of the area. In Kivu crops include banana, sorghum,
The province of Kivu-Nord was part of the old province of
groundnut, beans, manioc, potato, corn, rice, etc. Some
Kivu. This new province does not yet include districts. It
crops are more abundant in Kivu-Nord such as coffee,
has the town of Goma and five territories:
tea, quinquina and tobacco.
• Territory of Beni • Territory of Lubero
According to the Congolese Investment Code, the pro-
• Territory of Masisi
vince of Kivu-Nord is classified as Economic Zone C.
• Territory of Rutshuru
Investments approved by the National Agency for the
• Territory of Walikale
Promotion of Investment will benefit from several advantages such as tax exemption or special taxation and customs conditions for five years.
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P ROV I N C E S
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Natural Resources
• Infrastructure: Construction and repair of the principal road networks of the province, maintenance of the agri-
The volcanic ground and altitude of Kivu-Nord make it
cultural service roads and rehabilitation of the river
one of the most fertile areas of the country. This lends
basins.
itself very well to growing coffee, tea, quinquina,
• T ele communica tions: Rehabilitation of the OCPT cable
pawpaw, fruit and vegetables, which are exported from
network, deployment of the cable network for fixed tele-
the international airport of Goma. Dairy-cattle breeding
phones across the city.
is favoured. The culture of flowers is a potential area for
• Buildings , public works a nd environment: Construction,
development. Kivu-Nord has enormous ore reserves
rehabilitation and equipping of the basic infrastructure
including gold and coltan.
(schools, hospitals, residential buildings), administrative buildings and commercial buildings, construction of low-
Lake Kivu contains important methane reserves with a
rent houses in various urban centres.
capacity for generation of 250 million m3/year. The province also has great hydroelectric potential. Mountainous
CONTACTS
Kivu constitutes the backbone of the tourist industry of Congo; the Rwindi Park was considered one of most
Fédération des Entreprise s du Congo (FEC) /
beautiful by the Belgians. The diversity of the landscape,
Dire ction Provinciale du Nord-Kivu
the mildness of the climate and its variety, the presence
B.P. 500 Goma
of the volcanoes and mountains, its rich fauna and
Email: nkfecongo@hotmail.com /
several other attractions make this province a natural
nk_fecongo@hotmail.com
wonder. Chambre de Commerce du Gra nd Kivu
Investment Opportunities
Tel: +243-99-9946059
• Mines a nd hydrocarbons: Gold, tin, coltan, niobium
KIVU-SUD
and columbium and methane, plus further geological and mining exploration across the province.
The province of the Kivu-Sud is largely mountainous,
• Agriculture, forests and hydrography: Exploitation: hor-
with savannas and steppes and bamboo forests that rise
ticulture, food crops, industrial crops (coffee, tea, hévéa,
above 2,600m.
jatropha, sunflower, etc.). Farming: agricultural, breeding and fishing. Mechanization of agriculture across the pro-
Chief town: Bukavu
vince.
Area: 65,130km2
• Industry: Food, tobacco, leather, chemicals, biofuels.
Population: Kivu-Sud has around 2,837,779 inhabitants
• Banking: Banking and micro-finance institutions across
(2006).
the province. • Tourism: Development of hotels, management of
GEOGRAPHY
places of interest, modernization of the parks, construcThe province of the Kivu-Sud borders the provinces of
tion of lodges. • T ransport: Rehabilitation of the airport (Goma) and
Kivu-Nord to the north and Maniema to the west and by
aerodromes, creation of joint transport companies.
Rwanda and Burundi to the east.
• Electricity and wa te r: Distribution of electricity to the various cities and provincial towns, improvement of the
Adminis trative Organization
distribution networks for drinking water throughout the
The province of the Kivu-Sud was created from the divi-
province.
sion of the old province of Kivu. Having been itself a subregion of Kivu, this new province does not include
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districts but only the territories in its administrative subdi-
ECONOMY
vision: • Territory of Fizi
The climate of Kivu and the richness of its soil make this
• Territory of Idwji
province one of the most fertile areas of the Democratic
• Territory of Kabare
Republic of Congo.
• Territory of Kalehe • Territory of Mwenga
Agriculture therefore holds an important place in the
• Territory of Shabunda
economy, and formerly large farms exported many pro-
• Territory of Uvira
ducts such as tea. Today the recurring conflicts at the
• Territory of Walungu
border have strongly influenced the agricultural econo-
• City of Bukavu
mics of the area. In Kivu crops include banana, sorghum, groundnut, beans, manioc, potato, corn, rice, etc.
Clima te The province of Kivu-Sud has a very varied climate due to
According to the Congolese Investment Code, the pro-
its situation and its different altitudes. The plains have an
vince of Kivu-Sud is classified as Economic Zone C.
equatorial climate moderated by average altitude. Higher
Investments approved by the National Agency for the
up, on the other hand, the temperature falls and reaches
Promotion of Investment will benefit from several advan-
below freezing. Kivu-Sud is also characterized by its par-
tages such as tax exemption or special taxation and cus-
ticular rainfall patterns resulting from the meeting of
toms conditions for five years.
several masses of air. This climate produces rich soils and this area of Congo is one of the most fertile.
Investment Opportunities
HISTORY
• Mines and hydroca rbons: Gold, tin, coltan, niobium and columbium, methane, plus further geological and
The old province of Kivu is probably the province of
mining exploration across the province.
Congo which has seen most administrative change. In
• Agriculture, fores ts and hydrography: Exploitation: hor-
1909 Kivu was absorbed by the immense Province
ticulture, food crops, industrial crops (coffee, tea, hévéa,
Orientale. After several administrative changes, the pro-
jatropha, sunflower, etc.). Farming: agricultural, breeding
vince was recently divided into three parts: Maniema,
and fishing. Mechanization of agriculture across the pro-
Kivu-Nord and Kivu-Sud. The wars have caused large-
vince.
scale displacement of the population. Many people had
• Industry: Food, tobacco, leather, chemicals, biofuels.
to flee far from their arable lands. In certain regions,
• Ba nking: Banking and micro-finance institutions across
there was a mass exodus of the population, who left to
the province.
take refuge in nearby countries. Many of the palm plan-
• T ourism: Development of hotels, management of places of interest, modernization of the parks, construc-
tations, ponds and arable lands have been abandoned.
tion of lodges.
POLITICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INSTITUTIONS
• Transport: Rehabilitation of the airport (Bakavu) and
Provincial Gove rnment:
various cities and provincial towns, improvement of the
• Governor of the Province: Mr Celestín Cibalonza
distribution networks for drinking water throughout the
• Vice-Governor of the Province: Leon Mumate
province.
aerodromes, creation of joint transport companies. • E lectricity and water: Distribution of electricity to the
Nyamatomwa
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• Infrastructure: Construction and repair of the principal
• District of Tshopo
road networks of the province, maintenance of the agri-
• City of Kisangani
cultural service roads and rehabilitation of the river basins.
Climate
• Telecommunications: Rehabilitation of the OCPT cable
The Province Orientale is characterized by a continental
network, deployment of the cable network for fixed tele-
climate without a dry season and a tropical climate with
phones across the city.
one marked dry season. The average temperature is
• Buildings, public work s and environme nt: Construction,
around 23.9°C with a maximum of 30°C and a minimum
rehabilitation and equipping of the basic infrastructure
of 19°C. Abundant rainfall reaches 2,000mm/year in the
(schools, hospitals, residential buildings), administrative
south-west (Territory of Yahuma in particular) and
buildings and commercial buildings, construction of low-
1,100mm/year at Lake Albert.
rent houses in various urban centres.
POLITICAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE INSTITUTIONS
CONTACTS Fé déra tion des E ntreprises du Congo (FE C) /
Provincial Government:
Direction P rovinciale du S ud-Kivu
• Vice-Governor of the Province: Mr Watunakanza
B.P. 2467 Bukavu
Banamxezi Bernard
Tel: +243-81-325365
ECONOMY
Email: fecsudkivu@yahoo.fr
PROVINCE ORIENTALE
The Province Orientale has enormous natural resources and human potential. However, diamond, iron, oil,
The Province Orientale is the biggest province of the
forestry and its rivers will drive economic growth and the
Democratic Republic of Congo. It is also a province with
development of its population. Unfortunately, Province
great potential for agriculture, livestock breeding and fis-
Orientale is today among the poorest provinces of the
hing.
Democratic Republic of Congo according to certain indi-
Chief town: Kisangani
are not sufficiently established in the province.
cators of development. Savings and credit cooperatives
Area: 503,239km2 Population: Province Orientale has around 5,566,000
Investment Opportunities
inhabitants (2006). • Mines and hydrocarbons : Diamond, gold pyrite, coltan,
GEOGRAPHY
iron, oil, plus further geological and mineral exploration of the region.
The Province Orientale is bordered by the Central African
• Agriculture, fores ts and hydrography: Exploitation: hor-
Republic and Sudan to the north, the provinces of Kivu-
ticulture, food crops, industrial crops (palm oil, coffee,
Nord, Maniema and Kasaï Oriental to the south, Uganda
cocoa, hévéa, jatropha, sunflower, sugar cane, colza,
to the east and the province of Equateur to the west.
etc.). Production: wood, pulp papers, etc. Farming: agricultural, breeding and fishing. Transformation: industrial
Administrative Orga nization
processing of wood. Mechanization of agriculture across
Province Orientale has four districts and one city:
the province.
• District of Bas-Uélé
• Industry: Food, tobacco, leather, chemicals, biofuels.
• District of Haut-Uélé
• Banking: Banking and micro-finance institutions across
• District of Ituri
the province.
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eBizguides DRC • Tourism: Development of hotels, management of
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m • T elecommunica tions: Rehabilitation of the OCPT cable
places of interest, modernization of the parks, construc-
network, deployment of the cable network for fixed tele-
tion of lodges.
phones across the city.
• Transport: Rehabilitation of the airport (Kisangani) and
• Buildings , public works and environment: Construction,
aerodromes (Isiro, Bunia, etc), creation of joint haulage
rehabilitation and equipping of the basic infrastructure
companies (Kisangani), equipment, modernization and
(schools, hospitals, residential buildings), administrative
construction of ports (Kisangani, etc.), rehabilitation of
buildings and commercial buildings, construction of low-
the routes and improvement of the navigability of the
rent houses in various urban centres.
principal rivers by dredging and beaconing. • Electricity and wa te r: Distribution of electricity to the
CONTACTS
various cities and provincial towns, improvement of the distribution networks for drinking water through the pro-
Fédération des Entreprise s du Congo (FEC) /
vince.
Dire ction Provinciale de la Province Orientale
• Infrastructure: Construction and repair of the principal
Boulevard Mobutu 6, Commune de Makiso, Kisangani
road networks of the province, maintenance of the agri-
B.P. 1407, Kisangani
cultural service roads and rehabilitation of the river
Tel: +243-99-8597420 / 98-539340
basins.
Email: feckis@yahoo.fr / raymonkcb@hotmail.com
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A G R I C U L T U R E
If the father does not sow his land the son will never inherit a field (if your father doesn't teach you well, you cannot become a man) / Mabe ya baboti emonanaka na bana Congolese saying 97
AGRICULTURE
eBizguides DRC
OVERVIEW
the year, as well as a great variety of crops over the entire surface area of the DRC.
The agricultural activity represents around 45% of GDP, with most Congolese being subsistence farmers. While
There are development prospects for irrigation owing to
large-scale commercial agriculture was very prosperous
the vastness of the water network (which represents
until the 1970s, in the region of North and South Kivu,
50% of the water reserves of Africa).
nowadays most part has disappeared and there is no serious projects of revive it. Smaller scale agriculture still
Despite natural conditions conducive to production in the
functions but the activity is not really developed due to
agricultural sector, it is still under the expected level of
weak transport infrastructure and lack of banking credit
production both for subsistence crops and commercial
for the sector.
crops.
The DRC has an estimated cultivable arable surface of 82
For some years the agricultural output has mainly con-
million hectares (35% of total surface), but as yet only
sisted of subsistence food crops (cassava, maize, beans,
10% of this is used (just over 8 million hectares).
soya, groundnuts, paddy-rice, yams, taros, vonca, voandzou, banana, potatoes, squash, and sundry vegeta-
In addition to arable land, the potential for farming rests
bles) harvested from small family farms and maintained
on the non-chemical fertility of the soil, constant rainfall
with traditional methods that yield lower outputs. Some
and climatic diversity which characterize the seasons and
areas are particularly favourable for growing wheat,
make it possible for two cultivating seasons alternating in
berries, grapes, mangosteens, maracujas as well as
the north and south of the country at different times of
numerous exotic fruits, such as orange, safou, avocado
Colourful fruits and vegetables are always available in the market
and paw-paw).
Consequently, there is an insufficient supply of foodstuffs, which in association with low purchasing power of the population has led to food insecurity for an estimated 73% of the Congolese population.
The production of cash crops (industrial crops) that thrived in the past slowed down during the 1970s and 1980s; nonetheless, sugar cane production has been an exception. Cash crops are grown over almost the whole country and consist of palm-oil, sugar cane, coffee, cocoa, cotton, rubber, tobacco, tea and quinquina. With such enormous farming potential in the DRC and the domestic and world markets (for example for bio-fuel), there are many development prospects in this subsector.
Since 2001, the government has intended to stabilize the agricultural production. The main crops’ production have increased, but it is still insignificant compared to past levels: the main reasons of this decline being the lack of maintenance and planting. Consequently, cassava production, one of the main produced crops, decreased 7% since 2000. Coffee production has fallen too, with
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32.000 tonnes registered in 2005 compared to 40.000
The trend in production output for the main subsistence
tonnes five years earlier.
food crops has been as follows (in thousands of tonnes):
As far as farming activities are concerned, important opportunities exist, especially in Katanga and in eastern and western DRC, thanks to available agricultural land estimated at 15 million hectares, enough to feed 4 million cattle. This presents an opportunity for the breeding of cattle and poultry, especially as this activity has dramatically decreased due to urbanization and rural exodus as people fled from war-torn eastern DRC.
The DRC has more than 66,000 sq. km of water resources, which consist of Congolese waters and the Atlantic waters, the maritime reaches of the Congo River and its numerous tributaries, lakes connected to the Congo as well as the eastern lakes, which are all conducive to large-scale fishing.
Some years ago, the numbers of fish in the DRC’s waters were reckoned to exceed 400,000 tonnes per year, a third of which are found in Lake Tanganyika, where 200
This production output remains low given the enormous
known species have been listed.
potential and demand. In order to meet its domestic
The development of fishing activities is a step towards
the DRC resorts to imports, which amount to US $150
modernization of the production methods and tools, in
million per year, almost equal to 400,000 tonnes of
addition to building conservation infrastructure, with
foodstuffs.
staple foodstuffs demand (rice, maize, oil, wheat, etc.)
appropriate conservation techniques and transportation vehicles necessitating large funds for the development of
The production of the main cash commercial foodstuffs as
large-scale and small-scale fishing. Aquaculture and fish-
well as exportation of timber logs is as below (in tonnes).
breeding offer opportunities for investment in the untapped potential of the DRC.
The production possibilities are huge; yet they depend on both the local and worldwide demand.
99
Wood exploitation is one of the areas of high economic potential
FORESTRY
The partial forest surveys conducted to date in the DRC
Timber ranks as the second most important natural
report the existence of some rare and important species:
resource of the DRC after copper. The forested surface covers about 105 million hectares, which represents
• Limbia (Terminalia superba);
about 47% of the dense forested area of tropical Africa
• Tola (Gosseilerodendon balsamiferum);
and 6% of the worldwide forested area.
• Iroko (Chlorophora excelsa);
It is estimated that 40 million hectares of the Congolese
• Afrormosia (Pericopsis elata);
forested area are economically exploitable, while the
• Wenge (Millettia laurentii);
• Lifaki (Entandrophragma cylindricum);
additional 65 million hectares are less easily accessible because they are under water or are too far from outlet
Commercial felling of the Congolese forest has a long history as it started in the 1930s with the setting up of
points.
the first industrial units (Agrifor and Forescom). In 1973 The forested area includes five major categories, namely
more than 400 operators, including 310 log traders and
the Equator forested area of the Central Basin with
90 timber operators, exploited the forest with an annual
1,101,000 sq. km, the Mayumbe forests in the Bas-
production of about 500,000 cubic metres, with a
Congo province, the Kivu mountain forests, the dry
quarter of the production exported.
forests in Katanga province and the forests and small forested areas in the Katanga and Kasai provinces.
This sector has recently faced obstacles posed by the political unrest. Nowadays, the timber production output of the DRC barely reaches 400,000 cubic metres per year,
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w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
but employs various forest operators, among which the
With over 300 brands in its portfolio, BAT makes the
most important are: Siforco (with activities in Equator,
cigarette chosen by one in six of the world’s one billion
Bandundu
adult smokers. BAT holds robust market positions in
(Bandundu),
and
Orientale
Sokinex
provinces),
(Bas-Congo
and
Sokibois Equator),
Socobelam (Equator), Soforma (Bas-Congo) and Soderfor
each of its regions and has leadership in more than 50 markets.
(Bandundu). BAT is the only international tobacco group with a signiThis sector offers many development opportunities
ficant interest in tobacco leaf growing, working with
owing to its abundance of useful species and the needs
thousands of farmers internationally. Its companies run
of the building sector, carpentry and furniture and fit-
leaf programmes in 22 countries providing direct agro-
tings work in the DRC as well as abroad.
nomy support to farmers if it is not otherwise available, covering all aspects of crop production and environ-
With the publishing of the Forestry Code and the stabili-
mental best practice. Internationally, its companies pur-
zation of both the political and the economic situation of
chased 456,000 tonnes of leaf in 2006, grown by some
the country, an unprecedented rise in woodwork activi-
250,000 farmers, and over 80% of it by volume came
ties can be expected thanks to the development of the
from farmers and suppliers in emerging economies.
following businesses:
COMPAGNIE SUCRIÈRE KWILU-NGONGO • Logs, sawing, uncoiling and plywood; • Wooden housing and woodwork;
Eric van Eeckhout
• Spinning commodities, tools, shafts, modelling;
Executive Manager
• Prepared timber, production of softwood for match-
General Direction: Kwilu-Ngongo Bas-Congo, B.P. 10
sticks.
Office in Kinshasa: 16ème étage Immeuble BCDC, Kinshasa/Gombe
Elsewhere, considering the increasing consumption of
Tel: +243-81-8946380
paper and paper pulp (imported) and the diversity of
Email: csknkin@gb-solution.cd
forest resources, the DRC meets every qualification for setting up industries for production of paper pulp and
Activity: Production and trade of sugar and alcohols
paper.
Date of Creation: 1925 Capital: CDF 2,258,812,267.99 (2006)
MAIN COMPANIES
Turnover: CDF 23,145,023,802.99 (2006) Employees: 3,000
BRITISH AMERICAN TOBACCO CONGO SARL The agro-industrial complex of Kwilu-Ngongo in BasB.P. 621 Kinshasa
Congo was created in 1925. It is a mixed company
Tel: +243-87-16823
owned 40% by the Congolese state and 60% by the
Fax: +243-12-40105
sugar holding Finasucre.
Website: www.bat.com Currently the only sugar producer of the country, Activity: Tobacco production
Compagnie Sucrière is one of the most important employers in the DRC and permanently employs close to 3,000
BAT is the world’s second-largest quoted tobacco group
people. The domain that makes up the company is com-
by global market share, with brands sold in more than
posed of sugar cane plantations, a sugar refinery and a
180 markets.
distillery.
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AGRICULTURE
eBizguides DRC
The Sucriere at Kwilu boasts state-of-the-art machinery
A surface area of 10,000 hectares of sugar cane fields is
Email: udayan@marsavco.com
cultivated to collect more than 600,000 tonnes of sugar
Website: www.marsavco.com
cane and produce approximately 70,000 tonnes of sugar per annum. The sugar produced is a brown sugar for
Activity: Manufacturing of food products and soap pro-
direct consumption, entirely sold to the local market.
ducts Date of Creation: 1922
The distillery’s capacity is 50,000hl/year and this production is not only for the local market, but especially made
Founded in 1922, this plant was among the first of the
for export to the European Community.
company Unilever’s international manufacturing opera-
In addition to its economic role, Companie Sucrière also
soaps, detergents, edible oils, fats and margarine.
tions. Marsavco is DRC’s foremost manufacturer of
has an important sociocultural and medical development role in its area and for the country. It boasts a 250-bed
Marsavco Sarl was strategically acquired by the Rawji
hospital, a network of dispensaries, a school, and even
Group of Companies (Beltexco, Sogalkin, Prodimpex,
cultural and entertainment circles.
Parkland, Rafi) in 2001, producing brands under licence with Unilever. The company produces and distributes in
MARSAVCO SARL
agreement with Unilever some of its international brands like Omo detergent powder, Pepsodent toothpaste, Fair
Udayan Mukherjee
& Lovely cream and Blue Band margarine.
Director General 1. Av Kalemie, Gombe, Kinshasa 1
Marsavco’s brands are a byword of quality and excellence
Tel: +243-81-0823333
and are very popular all over the DRC. Some of the most
Fax: +243-81-3465555
popular household products manufactured are Livio oil,
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eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
Simba oil, Blue Band margarine, Lecoq soap, Monganga
GROUP MINOCONGO
soap, Brillant soap and Familia soap, to name a few. Sylvie Camacho In its quest for technical excellence, Marsavco is conti-
Administrative Director
nuously investing in new projects with the objective of
195 Av. Kabinda, Kinshasa/Lingwala,
achieving more efficient and quality products. Its future
B.P. 8699
plan is to set up a brand new state-of-the-art edible oil
Tel: +243-85-1402782
refinery and toilet soap manufacturing lines as well as
Email: sylvie.camacho@transgazelle.com
plastics and paper conversion units. Date of Creation: November 1989
MIDEMA MINOTERIE DE MATADI
Turnover: US $304 million Employees: 2,100
Gregory Stough Managing Director
The group Minocongo is composed of five companies:
Avenue Mongala 13 Kinshasa/Gombe
Minoterie du Congo, Mino Farm, Transgazelle, Inalca and
Tel: +243-81-5558000
SPG.
Email: Safiatou_kane@drcmidema.cd Minoterie du Congo is the second-largest flour mill of Activity: Flour Milling
Central Africa with a daily production of 400 tonnes. Its
Date of Creation: 1973
sales turnover for the current year is on the way to rea-
Employees: 400
ching US $70,000,000. A third production line with a daily capacity of 250 tonnes has been operational since
Since 1973, in times of peace or crisis, inflation or hyper-
April 2007.
inflation, the Maman Mobokoli, the Minoterie of Matadi (Flour mill), was never out of stock. The population
Mino Farm (Avicolous Farm of Lukaya) is an agricultural
always had its daily bread, the most consumed staple in
company with 120,000 hens able to produce 100,000
the DRC.
eggs per day. The farm is currently the most important
A subsidiary company of Continental Milling Corporation
eded US $5 million in 2006. In 2007 the firm acquired
of New York since December 1992, Midema is currently
80,000 additional hens, and its estimated sales turnover
a mixed company, financed by Seaboard, the most
for the year 2007 is US $7.50 million.
producer of eggs in the Congo. Its sales turnover exce-
important shareholder (51%), the Congolese state (40%), and other private investors (9%).
Transgazelle Sprl is a transportation company created in
Its production capabilities have risen from 350 tonnes in
developed in five years to reach 99 trucks operating on
2002, which started with 40 trucks. The company has
1973 to more than 940 tonnes per day in July 2006,
the Kinshasa–Matadi route. It has carried out more than
which means a production of 16,000 bags of flour per
700 rotations per month for a sales turnover estimated at
day.
the end of 2006 of US $21 million. It also owns an exploitation site of more than 45,000m2 located in the city
Since 2006 Midema, in collaboration with partners like
centre, behind the RTNC. At the end of 2007, 37 addi-
the government of the DRC and several international
tional trucks were aquired in order to carry the annual
organizations, decided to produce its flour with more
sales turnover to more than US $27.5 million.
iron and folic acid. The objective is to contribute to the prevention of disease related to the lack of these mine-
Inalca Kinshasa Sprl is a joint venture between the group
rals, such as anaemia.
MinoCongo and the Italian group Cremonini. As a large-
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AGRICULTURE
eBizguides DRC
scale trading and distribution company, it imports each
approximately 80km north-east of Kinshasa, form an
month on average two full ships or 5,000 tonnes of fish,
industrial complex which extends 23 hectares along the
and more than 100 containers of various foodstuffs like
Congo River. This unit includes a sawing factory, plating
chicken and frozen meat, corned beef, tomato paste, sar-
factory and a wood-carving factory. Its fleet (made up of
dines, kitchen oil and other various products. Its sales tur-
25 pushers, 6 pontoons and 2 petrol barges) supplies the
nover exceeded US $45 million in 2006.
company’s factory with citrus fruits from its various forest concessions at Bumba and Bolila. This is one of the ways
Société Générale de Panification SGP is the largest bread
in which Siforco is able to employ approximately 1,200
producer in Kinshasa, with a capacity of 2,400 bags of
African collaborators.
flour per day, with seven bakeries in the town of Kinshasa and an annual sales turnover of US $44 million
Its forest concessions produce an entire range of woods,
in 2006. In 2007 SGP (Société Générale des Pains) laun-
in particular mahogany, afrormosia, wengé and sipo,
ched out in the construction of the largest entirely auto-
among others. The dimension of its forest reserves will
matic bread factory in Africa, with an output of 1.5
allow Siforco to supply for decades Congolese mahogany
million loaves per day. It will have four lines of production
and other woods of great value such as the wengé or
each with a capacity of 1,000 bags per day.
afrormosia.
Product innovation is Midema’s main objective, with a
The greatest part of the wood is transformed and planted
constant focus on increasing its production and reducing
in the factory in Maluku, and the remainder of exports
the waiting time of their boats in Matadi port. Among
are citrus fruits. The transformed wood is sorted by qua-
future projects is the construction of six 4,000-tonne
lity, dried and then dispatched after having received the
capacity storage silos.
trade mark IHC. Platings are dried and sorted before being exported throughout the whole world.
The second project consists of the installation of a new system of loading and unloading its transport ships. This
SODEFOR
project will modernize the current system in order to reduce the length of stay the ships incur in port, all of this
José Albano Maia Trindade
with a single aim of increasing Midema’s flour produc-
74, 13 Commune de Limete, Kinshasa
tion capacity and to serve its customers better. Analysed
Tel: +243-81-5121728
every two hours, Midema’s flour meets international Sodefor was created in 1994, following the liquidation of
standards.
the former Forescom in 1999 and the end of the coope-
SIFORCO
ration with Canada. Sodefor is an Sprl in which the state is associated. The essential mission remains the develop-
B.P. 8434 Kin. 1, Kinshasa
ment of the forest industry. The aim consists of exploiting
Tel: +243-98-804298
the forest in an optimum way to perpetuate the
Fax: +243-88-04294
resources. The company works to an installation plan
Email: info@siforco.com
while protecting the populations living around the exploi-
Website: www.danzer.com
tation sites.
Dieter HAAG Manager Administrator
The forest development company (Sodefor) resolutely
Siforco, a Danzer Group company, is one of the most
exploitation of the forest, to contribute to the rebuilding
important transformation of wood factories in Africa. Its
of the DRC. With more than 2,200 workers, its exploita-
installations, located in the industrial park of Maluku,
tion factories in Kinshasa and outside, and aside from its
makes a point of taking up the challenge of the rational
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eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
investment in the social sector, Sodefor makes a point
With regard to the installation service, it consists of the
respecting its connection with the DRC Forest Code.
stratification of the forest blocks to delimit the territory or forest zone, including forests with limbali, to have a
The modern tools, machines and apparatus make this
picture of the forest, through socioeconomic studies, to
firm the leader of the district of MaĂŻ-Ndombe, which
delimit zones reserved for the community living in the
employs more than 1,500 people at Nioki, where it has
forest, their special sites, and to know the habits and tra-
established a large sawmill with a manufacturing plant
ditions of the community living in the forest to not dis-
for plywood and a line of “trinchage�. The socioeco-
turb their structure of life and to avoid possible conflicts.
nomic impact of Sodefor in this city, which is nearly 500km from Kinshasa, is felt with regard to the rehabili-
The socioeconomic activities of Sodefor are important. It
tation and equipment of the school infrastructure, the
is also important that investors develop modern indus-
construction of benches, desks and coffins for the local
tries, in order to reabsorb the unemployed back into the
population, without forgetting the health care for per-
country.
sonnel and the local population. Young and old work for the benefit of the community
107
AGRICULTURE
eBizguides DRC
108
E N E R G Y
There is no smoke without fire / Milinga ebimaka mpamba te soki moto ezali te Congolese saying
109
ENERGY
eBizguides DRC
ENERGY
by the DRC (this is the sole known instance of underwater gas in the world);
Energy is a key factor in the development of the DRC as
• The geothermic potential in eastern DRC is estimated at
there is potential in a variety of areas.
930MW; this is enough to meet its energy needs.
The energy resources discovered so far in the DRC are
provided in the past via a mining plant in northern Sud
mainly renewable resources and will be of high impor-
Kivu province (the quarry of Kiabukwa 400CV);
Historical records reveal that geothermic power has been
tance for the preservation of the environment:
• Solar energy, of which exploitation remains rudimentary, possesses a big potential. The average duration of
• Hydroelectricity with a potential of nearly 100,000MW,
sunlight varies from 1,300 to 2,000 hours per year, and
44% of which is concentrated at INGA hydroelectric site.
the average variation of the sun radiation between 60 to
This means the DRC could be a potential power provider
90 Kcal/sq. m per day. This energy resource could help
to the African continent, Middle East and southern
meet the smaller power needs in rural areas, namely for
Europe (see Project for Power Highways fed from INGA
water treatment stations, electricity, cooling, post and
site);
telecommunications;
• Natural gas reserves (57 billion cubic metres) contained
• Useful sites have been discovered for the use of wind in
in Lake Kivu. These reserves have not yet been exploited
producing electricity (aeolian energy);
DRC needs investment in its power stations
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
The possibility for the exploitation of sea energy (the
WATER
moving tide or swell, the waves, rise in temperature -difference- between surface and deep water over the 47km
The DRC has plenty of water reserves. The rainfall occu-
of coastline (Atlantic ocean) once a technical and econo-
rrence is important throughout the entire territory (more
mical feasibility study is carried out;
than 1,200mm on average per year). The hydrographical
• The possibility of producing hydrogen (as an alternative
network is one of the most developed in the world. The
product to oil in the future) from water resources, capa-
annual feeding from water layers represents matchless
city for which is partly held by the DRC (50%);
water volume compared to the needs. However, only 45%
• The capability for producing bio-energy from sugar
of the population has access to drinking water to date.
cane. The production and the distribution of water over the The hydroelectric energy potential is estimated at more
surface area of the DRC are organized by REGIDESO,
than 100,000MW, of which only 2% (2,415MW) is
which is a partly state-owned enterprise.
currently utilized. The rate of electricity supplied is 6% (among the lowest in the world), whereas in other sub-
MAIN COMPANIES
Saharan countries it is estimated at 24%.
COBIL Société Nationale d’Electricité (SNEL) still has the monopoly in the electricity sector in the DRC. However,
Georges Mukuna
changes are taking place, which will result in opening up
Vice President
this sector to the private sector.
407 Avenue de Roi Baudouin Kinshasa / Gombe Tel: +243-81-7005217
SNEL has hydroelectric and thermal power stations over
Email: cobil@cobil.cd
the whole national territory and the quantity of power On 1st September 2003 the former company Mobil Oil
delivered over its networks has grown as follows:
Congo became Cobil Sarl after the takeover of the ExxonMobil Group of the shareholding of Mobil Oil Congo Sarl.
The repurchase by the Congolese section of ExxonMobil answered the need to realize added value during resale in the DRC, and to ensure the continuity and relaunching Some of the power produced is exported to Congo
of the activities of Mobil Oil Congo by protecting its
Brazzaville, Zimbabwe, Angola and South Africa.
goodwill.
Inga presents an incredible potential (around 40.000-
Cobil is recognized as one of the major companies of the
45.000 mw) to serve the sub-region and other regions
oil sector in DRC. With the objectives of political and eco-
lacking energy on the African continent. Nonetheless
nomic liberalism and development of the national exper-
Inga’s capacity has not been exploited yet: DRC only
tise, the company’s mission is:
makes use of 700 mw, mainly due to the material’s neglect. In 2007, the World Bank authorised a credit of
• To guarantee to its shareholders a high value for their
US$296m, over the next three years, to rehabilitate
investments by the development of its goodwill.
Inga’s installations. A plan for fitting out the Inga site
• To offer to its customers great quality products and a
includes building the Grand Inga dam – in the final phase
priceless service, allowing it to anticipate and meet their
– with an installed power of 39,000MW.
needs.
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ENERGY
eBizguides DRC
• To ensure to its employees the highest standards of
Congo Oil has experienced a tumultuous history, inclu-
professionalism and ethics through the motivation and
ding the effects on its petrol stations and distribution
reinforcement of potential, a guarantee of success for
points and even the complete devastation of its head-
every company.
quarters in Goma due to the lava of Nyrangongo’s erup-
• To participate in the revitalization of the national eco-
tion in 2002.
nomy while being present in all the promising sectors of the DRC.
Today Congo Oil is an egalitarian structure company
This challenge is difficult because in 2003 Cobil was in an
and SONATRAD and on the other hand by X OIL REFI-
alarming economic situation. But after several months of
NING AND DISTRIBUTION LTD.
formed on the one hand by COHYDRO, SNEL, REGIDESO,
concerted action, more and more industrial and private investors manifested their interest to acquire shares in
The commercialization and distribution activities of the
the company, or to establish business connections.
company’s products are facilitated through a relatively
With the government’s assistance and thanks to
points. This network is mainly present in Kinshasa, Bas-
large network of gas stations and direct distribution
Congolese expertise, Cobil has managed to become one
Congo, Kivu and Katanga, and is continuously expanding
of the leaders of the national oil industry. Cobil is open
within the DRC.
to any project of commercial or financial partnership. Congo Oil is proud of its steady development since 2005,
CONGO-OIL
mostly due to the activities resumption of activities in the east, in Katanga, and to the A1 jet commercialization,
Rigobert Toto
and of its strengthening market share representation,
General Director
which show continuous future results in regards to the
BCDC, 9è étage, bld du 30 juin Gombe,
huge increase of car use over the past five years.
Kinshsa
MAGENERGY INC.
Tel: +243-998213500 Fax: +243-813464188
Magalloy Congo SA,
Email: congo-oil.sec@ic.cd
B.P. 889, Pointe Noire Activity: Commercialization of petrol products
Tel: +242-941264
Date of Creation:1989
Fax: +242-941259
Capital: US 853,606
Website: www.magindustries.com
Turnover: US 15,178,456
Georges Kyriakos
Employees: 24
Vice President Development
Created in 1989, from a mix of public Congolese compa-
MagEnergy’s primary endeavour is to generate income
nies and private Italian ones, the goal of what originally
from the sale of electrical power into existing national
was AGIP-Zaire was to develop oil distribution and com-
and international grids.
mercialization in the Eastern regions of what was then Zaire. Today, Congo Oil mainly deals in ground fuel, avia-
MagEnergy
tion fuel, lubricants, and specialized products. The com-
MagIndustries, was originally created to facilitate the
Inc., a
wholly
owned subsidiary
of
pany established its current name in the year 1999, when
delivery of energy to MagMetals’ Kouilou Magnesium
X Oil Refining and Distribution and Cohydro took over
Smelter and to supply energy into existing international
the majority of its actions.
grids. MagMetals’ Kouilou Magnesium Smelter will require approximately 130 megawatts (MW) of electrical
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eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
power, while rapidly increasing industrial demand in the
utility SNEL at Inga II, MagEnergy has moved quickly to
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), particularly the
establish the potential of developing important new
Katanga Copper Belt, could require up to 800MW over
hydro schemes at Busanga and Zongo.
the next six years. Meanwhile rising energy demands are also occurring in the region, most notably South Africa.
These projects will consolidate MagEnergy’s growing
MagEnergy Inc. announced in February 2007 the signing
and will have a major impact on growing energy
of an agreement to develop the Zongo II hydroelectric
demands within the DRC as well as in the greater sou-
site on the Inkisi River 80km south-west of Kinshasa, the
thern African region.
position in the increasingly critical African energy sector
capital of the DRC. The agreement was concluded with the Ministry of Energy and continues the DRC govern-
“MagEnergy is now the most significant private com-
ment’s efforts to liberalize the energy sector with
pany developing hydroelectric energy in the Democratic
approved independent power producers such as
Republic of Congo.”
MagEnergy. The agreement is also in line with the government of DRC’s recently reconfirmed policy of esta-
THE PERENCO GROUP
blishing public private partnerships (PPP) for developing Antoine Richard
the country’s energy resources.
General Director MagEnergy is also the only significant independent
11th Floor, BCDC Building, bld du 30 juin,
power producer in the country. With an operational base
B.P. 15596 Kinshasa, Gombe
established through its partnership with the DRC’s public Congo-Oil station
ENERGY
eBizguides DRC
Tel: +243-81-7008013
of Bas-Congo. Perenco employs approximately 1,000
Fax: +33-153-576337
people, through both direct employment and subcon-
Perenco Group DRC is essentially a partnership of two
of the identified reserves, the exploration and the search
tracting. In addition to the production and development
companies, Perenco REP (onshore hydrocarbon explora-
for new axes of development constitute the heart of its
tion and production) and MIOC (offshore hydrocarbon
activity.
exploration and production). Respect for the environment, sustainable development Founded in 2000 and 2004, Perenco and MIOC deal in
and the support of local communities also constitute a
exploration and production of hydrocarbons in the DRC
major concern for Perenco, which finances many social
coastal basin (Muanda/Kinkasi/Liawenda/Tshiende) and in
projects and takes an active part in the neighbouring
all the Congolese offshore territory.
communities (construction of schools, health centres,
Perenco’s headquarters are in Kinshasa, but the majority
infrastructure, school support, plantation of orchards,
of its activity is concentrated in Muanda, in the province
maintenance of roads, supply of electricity and gas in the
water systems, electrification of villages, construction of
Proper petrol storage is necessary
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
city of Muanda, etc.). Perenco REP and MIOC are truly
‘Decennial plan of development of the drinking water
involved in the development of the DRC and are among
service in DRC’. This plan aims to provide a coherent tool
the principal taxpayers in the country.
for sectoral planning adapted to strategic and political objectives, a technical and financial programming tool for
REGIDESO
management for identified and evaluated projects, a possibility for permanent and constructive dialogue with bac-
Lubunga Pene Shako
kers on the basis of periodic updates of the plan, and an
ADG
evaluation of the sector performance in regard to the
59–63 bld du 30 juin,
identified objectives.
B.P. 12599 Kinshasa 1 Tel: +243-88 45125
The plan also contributes to the national strategy for the
Email: regideso-dg@regideso.cg
reduction of poverty. In particular it will help achieve the
Website: www.regideso.cg
Millennium Development Goals, with 25,041,000 people having a water supply by 2015, which means an inves-
In 1930 the Belgian Ministry created the Régie de distri-
tment of US $1,677,747,000 over the next 10 years
bution d’eau (Control of Water Distribution) in the Congo with the aim of exploitation, development and
SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC CONGO
modernization of the water distribution system in Boma, Matadi, Coquilhatville (Mbabndaka) and Stanleyville
Emile Mouloundou
(Kisangani). In 1934 this body also took over from the
Country Manager
Société de Distribution d’eau, created in 1929, the
Imm. Immobilia 49, bld du 30 juin, Gombe Tel: +243-99-8301901 / 81-5296667
exploitation and distribution of water in Léopoldville (Kinshasa). At the same time, the colonial authorities
Fax: +243-99-7575594
gave the exploitation and distribution of electricity to the
Email: emile.mouloundou@afr.schneider-electric.com
Régie. The public company Regideso was created in 1939
Website: www.schneider-electric.com
(Régie de distribution d’eau et d’éléctricité du CongoBelge et du Rwanda-Urundi / Control of Distribution of
Activity: Electrical devices
Water and Electricité).
Date of Creation: January 2004 Employees: 10
On 1st April 1968 Regideso was privatized. It was placed under the technical supervision of the Ministry for Energy
Schneider Electric Congo is a subsidiary of Schneider
and the administrative and financial supervision of the
Electric worldwide group. Its DRC office, based in
Ministry for the Portfolio. With the aim of rationalizing its
Kinshasa, was created in 2004 to organize and follow
activities, Regideso transferred to the Société National
market ties to economic improvement in the DRC.
d’Electricité (SNEL) all of its production and distribution of electricity in 1978.
The company works with local partners such as Pronton
Regideso’s objectives cover water distribution and installa-
Electricité, licensed retailers who store and sell Merlin
tions, and collection, supply and treatment of the distri-
Gerin and Telemecanique materials. Schneider Electric
buted water. Its other mission is the study and completion
supports and trains all its employees and subcontracted
Alukivu, Setrema, Panaco, SSCO, Electra and Congo
of water distribution installations and extension of existing
employees to ensure clients have superior quality and
networks.
help at any time, day or night.
Future aims are clearly defined in the master plan of the
Its main services are team training and studies of elec-
Sector of Drinking Water and Cleansing 2006–2015:
trical projects. It has done several projects with compa-
115
ENERGY
eBizguides DRC
nies such as Perenco, Ok Palst, Cilu, Total Congo and
The facilities that SEP-Congo uses to carry out its activi-
Coraf.
ties include an oil terminal that can receive a total capacity of 232,300m2 and a network of six pipelines covering
The company is focused on brand name imports as well as
a total of 719km. It also has a fleet of vehicles, a railway
safe installations in all its relevant fields of expertise, whe-
park and an automobile park used to transport the oil. To
ther industrial, building installation or basic electrical work.
facilitate customs clearance of petroleum products, SEPCongo uses 16 customs agencies and 16 warehouses
The company’s Merlin Gerin and Telemecanique mate-
managed by Ofida.
rials are available through partner sales points. Contact them and see the difference that true quality can bring.
The company guarantees the quality of the products delivered to its customers and provides a large amount of
Emile Mouloundou, the country manager, considers DR
investment in prevention and risk management in all
Congo to be an important market for investors. After
aspects of the safety of its people, goods and respect for
many years of troubles and difficulties, the economy is
the environment.
making a comeback step by step. SEP-Congo is regarded as an exemplary company, which
SEP-CONGO
participates actively in community development. The company organizes many activites for students and
Marc Soissong / André Kadima Kayembe
others in its workshops, garages, driving school etc.
Administrative Executive Officer /
SOCIÉTÉ NATIONALE D’ELECTRICITÉ (SNEL)
Vice Administrative Executive Officer 1 av. des Pétroles, Commune de la Gombe, B.P. 2197 Kin. 1v, Kinshasa
Daniel Yengo Massampu
Tel: +243-81-8840402
General Director
Fax: +243-81- 5554915
2831 av. de la Justice,
Email: secdg@sep.cd
B.P. 500 Kin. 1, Kinshasa/Gombe Tel: +243-81-7009568
Activity: Oil logistics
Fax: +243-81-3010382
Date of Creation: 1910
Email: sneldg@ic.cg
Capital: CDF 972,289,200
Website: www.snel.cd
Turnover: US $90,184,490 The Société National d’Electricité (National Electricity
Employees: 1,500
Company), SNEL, was created on 16th May 1970 when Sep-Congo is a private company created in 1978 involved
the company received the state mandate for the first
in oil logistics throughout all the territories of the DRC. Its
stage of the installation of the hydroelectric site at
registered office is in Kinshasa and its various oil termi-
Inga.
nals, including 25 terrestrial, 8 airport and 5 relay staFollowing the opening of the power station at Inga on
tions, are spread throughout the DRC.
24th November 1972, SNEL became a producer, conThe most important activities of the company are the
veyor and distributor of electric power. SNEL now con-
reception, handling, transport and installation of petro-
trols all the large hydroelectric power stations and
leum products from entrance in the country to the custo-
thermal plants of the country.
mers’ installations, covering all of the DRC. SEP-Congo is also the exclusive commission agent in the DRC for cus-
To date, SNEL has operated in the form of a public com-
toms petrol clearance.
pany under the technical supervision of the Ministry for
118
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
Bandundu city profits from Inga's power, thanks to a cable linking it to the other side of the river
Energy, with administrative and financial supervision
SOCIR
being ensured by the Ministry for the Porfolio. Felix Mvuemba Ntanda In 1980 SNEL began a process of company development.
Executive Officer
In meanwhile, the need to carry out safety improvements
10th Floor Immeuble BCDC,
led to the temporary programme 1981–1983, followed
B.P. 1478 Kinshasa/Gombe
by the programme for 1984–1986.
Tel: +243-9933240 Fax: +243-8840330
Following this the development plans continued and took
Email: fmvuemba@afrinet.cd
into account all the problems of the company. Thus was born the ‘National Master Plan of Development of the
Date of Creation: 1963
Electricity Sector by 2005’, which was published in 1988. The master plan has the following strategic objectives:
The Congolese refining company Socir was created in 1963 as a joint company owned 50% by ENI (Ente
• Profitability of the infrastructure of existing production
Nazionale Indrocarburi, an Italian government company)
and transport;
and 50% by the Congolese state. Established between
• Satisfaction of demand at lower cost;
1964 and 1967, the oil refinery at Muanda began opera-
• Improvement of productivity;
tions in January 1968. The shares of the Italian part were repurchased by X-Oil.
Following the problems in the country from 1990 to 1998, the master plan was deferred to 2015 and priority
The mission of Socir is the refining of crude oil in Congo
given to the need to supply electric power to all
and all industrial operations for the production of fuel,
Congolese people for their development, especially those
liquid fuels, bitumens and liquid gases primarily to satisfy
living in the rural areas.
the needs of the Congolese domestic market. Socir also takes care of the sale of finished products from the refi-
119
ENERGY
eBizguides DRC
nery, related products, as well as the export of the pro-
The Company has interests in Vietnam, Yemen, Thailand,
ducts. The transport and storage of crude oil and the
the Republic of Congo (Brazzaville) and the Democratic
finished products are also a part of its mission. This acti-
Republic of Congo (Kinshasa) with production operations
vity consists of importing and refining imported cargoes,
in Yemen.
the storage of the resulting products in the reserves of the refinery and their transport to Ango-Ango/Matadi
In July 2006, the company’s 85% owned subsidiary,
where SEP-Congo takes care of them.
SOCO DRC Limited, signed a production sharing contract
Socir has 350 established posts in Muanda. The impor-
Congo and Cohydro (La Congolaise des Hydrocarbures),
tant role of Socir was evident in 1998 and 1999 during
DRC’s state-owned oil company, wherein it has acquired
the war, when without the products refined by Socir, all
an interest in the Nganzi block, an onshore site of the
with the government of the Democratic Republic of
the activity of the country would have been stopped.
DRC (Kinshasa), which comprises an area of approximately 800 square kilometres within the Congo Basin
From a political point of view, the company contributes to the regular provisioning of the country with petroleum
SOCO DRC’s vast experience in petrol exploration and
products at a lower cost. However, the company’s activi-
exploitation gives it a competitive edge when implemen-
ties must be increased and modernized to ensure a better
ting in a new country. With the success it has expe-
competitiveness.
rienced in other countries, like Vietnam and Yemen, SOCO DRC sees high potential in the soils and shores of
Socir has developed a plan which is currently being
the DRC. It is exploring this potential through various sur-
implemented and which includes the rehabilitation of its
veys, initiating with a geo-chemical survey before laun-
production equipment and the thermoelectrical power
ching into 2D seismic surveys.
station at the wharf. In line with its strategic expansion SOCO puts a huge
SOCO E&P – DRC SPRL
emphasis on ethical issues. Indeed, SOCO’s commitment
Mr Serge Lescaut
business priority. The company takes full account of
General Manager
other stakeholders’ interests.
to high standards of corporate responsibility is a core
bld du 30 juin B.P. 8256, Kinshasa,Gombe
The seismic programme being planned in Democratic
Tel: +243-81-7154500/02
Republic of Congo will involve environmental and social
Email: serge.lescaut@soco-drc.com
impact assessments. An important first step will be the
Website: www.socointernational.co.uk
identification of local issues in interaction with local com-
Activity: Oil & gas exploration & production
onshore exploration company, active community liaisons
munities to learn about their social priorities. Being an
Date of Creation: November 2006
will be important as will be the deployment of local per-
Capital: CDF 21,500,000
sonnel to support operations.
Employees: 8 SOCO follows a consistent policy, which is mostly part of SOCO is a London-based international oil and gas explo-
its success: recognizing opportunity, capturing potential,
ration and production company, traded on the London
and realizing value.
Stock Exchange and a constituent of the FTSE 250 Index.
122
F I N A N C E
The swan who leaves his tree should be careful (you snooze you lose) Oyo akoti zamba abungisi esika na ye. Congolese saying 125
FINANCE
eBizguides DRC
BANKS AND FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS
INSS (Instituit National de Sécurité Sociale) and OCPT
In the DRC the banking and financial institutions are
Banking activities have experienced noticeable progress
(Office Congolais des Postes et Telécommunications).
governed by the banking law no. 003 of 2002.
in recent years. For instance, fund transfers received from
Institutions are classified into five categories:
abroad reached US $3,934 million against US $3,056
• Banks;
have moved from US $2,115 million to US $2,551 million
• Savings cooperatives;
in 2006, a 21% increase.
million in 2005, making a 30% rise. Transfers abroad
• Savings banks; • Specialized financial institutions;
In order to incorporate and register for the purpose of
• Financial companies.
conducting credit institutions or bank activities, a company is obligated to adopt the form of an Sarl, make a
The regulatory competence over banking is entrusted to
deposit in accordance with the amount prescribed by the
the Central Bank of Congo, which has competence to
Central Bank of the DRC and be responding to either a
rule on the approval of incorporation/setting up of credit
domestic or general need.
institutions, to issue regulations to applicable credit institutions, ensure they are financially healthy and make sure
The registration request file should comprise:
they are compliant with legal regulatory provisions, exa-
• An original copy of the articles of incorporation in
mine the operating conditions of credit institutions and
French;
impose sanctions for departures from legal and regula-
• The list of shareholders and management committee
tory provisions.
members;
The country has been in the process of implementing
and the organization;
• Business plan for forecast of operations, the setting up
major banking reform for the past decade or so, which
• Detailed proof of technical and financial means that the
has resulted in the liquidation of several banks with poor
credit institution is planning to utilize;
performance. Nine banks are in liquidation
• All other pieces of information tending to motivate a favourable decision of the Central Bank of the DRC.
Today banking services are provided in Kinshasa and across much of the DRC thanks to a large network of sub-
The banking sector is expected to grow substantially in
sidiaries and branches as well as related correspondents.
the future, thanks to the implementation of the Programme d’Actions Prioritaires (PAP) du Gouvernement
This network consists of the following banks: Banque
(Priority Action Plan of the Government of the DRC/PAP).
Commerciale du Congo (BCDC), Banque Internationale
The execution of this plan, with the aid of international
pour l’Afrique au Congo (BIAC), Citybank, Banque
institutions, will speed up the Congolese economic
Congolaise, Stanbic Bank, Banque Internationale de
growth over the period from 2006 to 2011.
Crédit (BIC), First Banking Corporation Congo (FBCC), Procréditbank and Rawbank.
MAIN COMPANIES
The DRC therefore has nine banks operating across the
AFRILAND FIRST BANK CD
country plus 26 non-banking financial institutions, six of which are operating within the public sector: CADECO
Joseph Toubi
(Caisse d’Epargne du Congo), SOFIDE (Société Financière
Chairman and CEO
de Développement), FPI (Fond de Promotion de
767, bld du 30 juin
l’Industrie), SONAS (Société Nationale d’Assurances),
Tel: +243-0-991-290396
126
eBizguides DRC Fax: +243-0-1221167
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m Afriland First Bank CD is building its notoriety based on
Email: jtoubi@afrilandfirstbank.com
certain objectives: building bridges between the formal
Website: www.afrilandfirstbank.com
and informal sectors of the economy, reducing the tendency to use cash as a means of payment, integrating
Activity: Banking Date of Creation: May 2005
rural areas into the development process, helping the rise of a true entrepreneurial class and bringing its support to the development of companies.
Afriland First Bank was founded in 1987, under the direction of Dr Paul K. Fokam and other experienced Africans
Every day, Afriland First Bank strives to maintain innova-
whose desire was to enhance the image of a continent
tive initiative, while keeping in line with its ethical and
weakened by the economic crisis of the 1980s. So far,
customer-orientated objectives.
the company has been implemented in several countries within sub-saharan Africa, France and China and is con-
“Afriland First Bank, the customer’s interest is our priority.”
tinuously broadening its horizons.
Joseph Toubi, Chairman and CEO Afriland First Bank CD was founded in May 2005 under a presidential decree and started operating one year later.
BANQUE CENTRALE DU CONGO
It is a subsidiary of Afriland First Bank, which has a large private and corporate customer base focusing its services
Mr J.M. Kasongo Mwamba
towards entrepreneurs.
Cabinet Director Boulevard Colonel Tshatshi 563, B.P. 2697 Kinshasa/Gombe
FINANCE
eBizguides DRC
Tel: +243-20704 / 20550 / 20549 / 33989
Compared to the 1990s and the beginning of 2000, since
Fax: +243-8805152 / 8804326
2002 the Issuing House has ensured the maintenance of
Email: cabgouv@bcc.cd
monetary stability, thanks in particular to collaboration
Website: www.bcc.cd
with Bretton Woods since 2001 (technical and financial support of the IMF and the World Bank). Basic indicators
Banque Centrale du Congo (BCC / Central Bank of Congo)
have improved: the inflation rate was brought down
is charged with defining and implementing the monetary
from 511.21% in 2000 to 9.22% in 2004, and the
policy of the DRC with the objective of obtaining and
exchange rate appreciably improved from -81.9% in
maintaining the stability of the general level of prices. BCC
2000 to -16.12% in 2004.
is a public company created on 30th July 1951. During its history, it successively bore the names of Banque Centrale
BANQUE COMMERCIALE DU CONGO
du Congo Belge et du Ruanda-Urundi, Banque Nationale du Congo from 1961, Banque du ZaĂŻre from 1911 and
Yves Cuypers
finally Banque Centrale du Congo from 1991.
Managing Director bld du 30 juin, B.P. 2798, Kinshasa 1
At the initiative of its governor, BCC carried out a review
Tel: +243-81-7005759 / 5181678 / 8845704
which led to an action plan adopted in September 1991.
Fax: +377-99-631048
This led the Issuing House to plan suitable measurements
Email: dir@bcdc.cd
to make a success of the monetary reform of 1998.
Website: www.bcdc.cd
However, relaxation of the budget policy caused by the war and the absence of the instruments of monetary policy des-
Activity: Bank
troyed all the hopes raised by the reform of 1998.
Date of Creation: 1909
Banque Commerciale du Congo
128
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
Created in 1909 the BCDC, originally named Banque du
BANQUE CONGOLAISE
Congo Belge, was established as an anonymous society, with business focused on the Central African region.
Mr Roger A. Yaghi President
In 2004 BCDC took advantage of the improved social and
Croisement av. de la Nation et des Aviateurs,
political climate and the resultant economic upturn to
Kinshasa/Gombe
extend its network to cover the entire country and adapt
Tel: +243-99-9308026
its commercial organization in line with the new require-
Fax: +243-99-7575561
ments of its customer base, comprised of private indivi-
Email: akinshasa@congobank.cd
duals, SMEs and SMIs, large corporations and various ins-
Website: www.congobank.com
titutions. Activity: Banking After almost 100 years of hard work and development,
Date of Creation: 1989
the BCDC is today the leading Congolese bank, active throughout the DRC. BCDC’s banking strategy is in part
The Banque Congolaise (BC), created in 1989, remains a
developing a range of innovative and creative profes-
young dynamic bank, which, after a successful reorgani-
sional financial services tailored to the needs of all players
zation, started an extremely remarkable growth. Its cus-
in the country’s economy. With its efficient branch net-
tomers are productive economic actors in all sectors and
work in the DRC, BCDC, which belongs to a pan-African
count among the most powerful entities of the country.
and European banking network, has developed a cus-
More importantly, it maintains trustful relations with the
tomer-oriented organizational structure.
government and the Central Bank, and ensures, within this framework, the management of public funds used
BCDC has integrated three business lines to effectively
for some of the essential programmes of the transition,
meet the needs and increasingly specific demands of its
such as the GDR.
customers: • Corporate Banking, for large national and international
In spite of the comfortable current situation of the
enterprises
Banque Congolaise, its shareholders and leaders have the
• Personal Banking for SMEs/SMIs and individuals
will to increase its possibilities and to maximize its poten-
• Institutional Banking, for institutions and banks
tial and its services with an aim of transforming the BC into a modern bank through means of expansion and
The BCDC has a high standard of requirements for advi-
future plans. It is within this framework that an ambitious
sory services and financial products wherever it is pre-
development programme was set up and supported by
sent, whether one of its network of branches throughout
an important modernization and investment plan (e.g. a
the country, a special international partnership or its e-
rehabilitation and total restoration of the HQ and bran-
business channels.
ches, replacement of the IT equipment etc.)
The BCDC aims to be a bank that is young, dynamic,
In 2006 alone, the BC increased its number of employees
innovative and forward-looking, able to continue to play
from 78 to 440 agents, and the creation of jobs conti-
its role as a top-ranking economic and financial operator
nues. To increase its financial capacities, the capital of
in the DRC, satisfying its shareholders and enabling its
the BC should attain a record US $10,000,000 in 2007.
staff to achieve professional growth within the company.
This shows the will of the shareholders of the BC to take all the means necessary to carry out the important objectives of their bank.
129
FINANCE
eBizguides DRC
Thus, the BC gives real meaning to creating a true part-
Fax: +33-1-53010681
nership with its customers, developing and promoting
Email: contact@biac.cd (Secrétariat)
the business and becoming the bank of proximity every-
com@biac.cd (Direction Commerciale)
where in Congo. In 2008, the Banque Congolaise aims to
Website: www.biac.cd
become the number one bank in the DRC and one of the largest banks of the African continent.
The BIAC is classified amongst the most dynamic establishments of the DRC and is a member of the Congolese
BANQUE INTERNATIONALE POUR L’AFRIQUE AU CONGO (BIAC)
Banks Association, whose current president is the BIAC’s own President and Managing Director. The bank is also a member of the Federation of Congolese Companies
Charles Sanlaville
(FEC), in which its president yet again takes an active role
President Managing Director
by occupying a seat on its board.
87 bld du 30 juin, B.P. 8725 Kinshasa Tel: +243-81-7004001/4002/4003
Microfinancing is necessary so local people can build up small business
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
BIAC operates in the DRC as a commercial bank and is
development of competencies and technologies, respec-
therefore directly involved in the economic activity of the
ting everyone’s sociocultural specificity.
country, covering all economic sectors, thanks to a portfolio of very diversified clients (local and international
In 1997, he created Deloitte Africa Belgium, the Africa
companies and organizations as well as private indivi-
Department of Deloitte Belgium, and he participated in
duals).
the setting up of Deloitte & Touche Burkina s.a., with Nabassom Salif Ouedraogo.
In addition to its systematic establishment in cities such as Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, Matadi, Boma, Butembo and
Later, he participated in the setting up of the following
Goma and several short-term projects to develop its net-
firms in Africa, for which he ensures coordination today
work nationwide, the BIAC seeks to increase its presence
in the Deloitte Eastern and Central Africa network, under
where its market share is low in order to maintain or
the name GPO Partners (former Deloitte Africa Belgium),
increase its number of customers.
coordinates the activities of Deloitte & Touche Congo Sprl, Deloitte & Touche Rwanda Sarl and Deloitte Burundi
Its mission is to contribute to the notion of capitalization
Sprl. With more than 50 professionals, GPO Partners is a
of private individuals and to encourage the entrepreneur
Global Professional Organization delivering world-class
to innovate and industrial companies to produce to a sig-
audit, accounting, tax and consulting services to interna-
nificant degree, on the quantitative side as well as on the
tional companies, as well as national enterprises and
qualitative one.
public institutions.
The BIAC not only seeks to be the channel through which
A vast network of Deloitte offices spans 28 countries in
its customers create long-term value, but above all to
Africa with more than 5,000 professional staff. On a
amplify activity in the different economic sectors.
world level, Deloitte is operating in 140 countries with
Confident in its proven strategy, which has allowed the
approximately 135,000 experts.
bank to reach its goals, the BIAC has a clear sense of priorities.
Its internationally experienced professionals deliver seam-
Thanks to this approach, the BIAC offers added value to
high level of international experience and local expertise
less, consistent services wherever its clients operate. The
its services through its knowhow and is present in the
enable it to provide superior services with high added
DRC as well as the world over via local agencies and
value and to present appropriate solutions to specific
partner banks.
business issues in Africa.
DELOITTE AND TOUCHE CONGO SPRL
GRAS SAVOYE RDC
Philippe Odent
Philippe Baille / Jean Pierre Emouengue
Advisory partner
General Director / Co-General Director
bld du 30 juin, 94, Kinshasa 1, Gombe
17 av. des Poids Lourds, Kinshasa/Gombe
Tel: + 243-81-7005076
Tel: +243-81-0838870 Email: grassavoye.rdc@micronet.cd
A member of Deloitte Belgium since 1982, Philippe Odent
Website: www.grassavoyerdc.com
has performed many auditing and consulting activities in Africa. Since 1992, he has made substantial efforts for the
Activity: Insurance broking and reinsurance
development of audit, accounting, tax and consulting acti-
Date of Creation: July 2005
vities in Africa, strengthening the relation between Europe
Capital: CDF 23,118,750 (US $47,000)
and Africa, while enabling harmonious exchanges and
Employees: 6
131
FINANCE
eBizguides DRC
Created recently following the example of other African
internet to promote political projects and activities with
subsidiary companies of the group, GS RDC intends to
e-lobbying, and marketing. It also lobbies national public
position itself as the leading broker in this field in the
opinion, the international community and international
DRC, specializing in particular on large-scale enterprises,
organizations to promote political and private projects.
SMEs and SMIs.
Thanks to its press and media relations, MTC improves its
The year 2007 marked the centenary of Gras Savoye,
communication strategy.
clients’ relationships with the media by working out a
which has been the number one French insurance broker for the past 15 years, working in association with Willis,
RAWBANK
considered the number three brokerage firm in the Thierry Taeymans
world.
Managing Director The company’s mission in the DRC can be summarized
bld du 30 juin 3487,
as: consulting, intermediation and service management.
B.P. 2499 Kinshasa 1 Tel: +243-99-8320000 / 81-8870001
Gras Savoye RDC is looking into expanding its services
Email: contact@rawbank.cd
and growing with the country. It is preparing to launch
Website: www.rawbank.cd
into corporate health insurance and a panoply of other services, always supplying to existing demand.
Activity: Bank Date of Creation: 2001
MASTER TEAM CONSULTING AFRICA (MTC) Rawbank is an independent Congolese commercial bank Mandack Okende Katako
created in May 2001. It offers financial advice and facili-
CEO
tates the course of financial transactions. Since its entry
1C Immeuble Kasai, Place Royale, Kinshasa/Gombe
into the Congolese banking market, Rawbank has consis-
Tel: +243-81-0375631
tently kept growing thanks to its innovative line of pro-
Fax: +243-15-114563
ducts and services, coupled with its modern management
Email: mandack@masterteam.fr
techniques.
Website: www.masterteam.fr Rawbank offers a complete package of various products MTC is an international consulting company specializing
and financial services for companies and private individuals.
in communication. The company applies its knowledge at each step of a campaign, with feasibility and design stu-
Concerning capital management, the bank offers its cus-
dies or campaign supervision. MTC can assist or advise in
tomers an interesting range of investments including the
the organization of a marketing campaign.
five classes of capital. It thus guarantees prosperous results with a balanced risk portfolio.
MTC is a young consulting company which, thanks to the experience, the knowhow and the dynamism of its
With the treasury service, customers can anticipate fluc-
employees and team of consultants, aims to offer quality
tuations in currencies, and exchange them with several
services to its customers and partners.
options. This enables good management of resources.
The company’s main work is to develop and support any
The bank also offers various commercial finance pro-
organization and its leaders. It also works to support poli-
ducts, like credit letters, collection letters, exchange and
tical projects. In order to reach this goal, MTC uses diffe-
industry bills. Moreover, the bank functions as a financial
rent solutions. MTC applies the potential offered by the
commercial establishment, while allowing its customers
132
FINANCE
eBizguides DRC
to have current accounts with cheque books and bank
Email: waznijr@groupesoficom.com
cards and savings accounts, among other personal finan-
Website: www.groupesoficom.com
cial products. Activity: Financial services The first Congolese bank to have integrated the interna-
Date of Creation: 2nd October 2000
tional Swift network, Rawbank is also a pioneer for
Capital: CDF 100,000,000
MasterCard in the DRC. Thanks to its expansion policy,
Turnover: CDF 2.8 billion
Rawbank has already opened branches in Matadi and
Employees: 2,000
Lubumbashi and will very soon be in all of the country’s large cities.
Soficom Group was created in 2000. A pioneer in money transfers, Soficom began with only one agency and has
“We do everything to facilitate our customers’ financial
managed to become a prosperous and highly respected
activities.”
establishment, with over 55 counters, all connected by
Thierry Taeymans, Managing Director
GROUPE SOFICOM
an effective, state-of-the-art intranet system.
Always looking to stay one step ahead of the game, Soficom is continuing its expansion into the following
Wazni Abdallah
fields:
Managing Director
• Banking services: Sofibanque
1 av. des Sénégalais, Kinshasa/Gombe
• Financial transfers: Soficom Transfert
Tel: +243-81-7300000 / 99-99-09999
• Exchange offices: Soficom Change • Communications: Sofiphone and Sofipay
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
• International transfers: Société de Change et des
In the near future, Soficom aims to have 75 points of
Finances
representation throughout the farthest areas of the DR
• Money collection: Soficash
Congo in order to be accessible to any level of the
Low commission rates lead to customer satisfaction. Its
Group is indisputably number one in national transfers,
Congolese population, thanks to its low prices. Soficom
competitive advantages oblige others to improve their
with its near nationwide network. Its professional team,
services if they wish to stay in the game.
composed of 2,000 nationals and more than 180 expatriates, allows Soficom to maintain its credibility, thanks
Soficash collects funds for recharge card sales for all the
to the quality of service provided by focusing on speed,
major cellular companies in the country (Vodacom,
effectiveness and reliability.
Celtel, Tigo). The company takes this as an opportunity to improve the quality of the national and international transfer system even in the most remote places nation-
SOCIÉTÉ NATIONALE D’ASSURANCE (SONAS)
wide, where these networks are present. Marcel Mulumba Kenga This is a reliable company whose experience allows it to
CEO
have an international vision thanks to joint ventures with
bld du 30 juin,
international banks (e.g. Citigroup) and its presence on
B.P. 3443 Kin. 1, Kinshasa/Gombe
the London Stock Exchange.
Tel: +243-81-0336787 Email: sonask@hotmail.com
Soficom Group, a pioneer in money transfers
FINANCE
eBizguides DRC
Date of Creation: 1967
the development of the Sonas network, and the reinjection of capital into the market by the settlement of claims
The Congolese state gave the monopoly on insurances
(règlement des sinistres).
business to the Société Nationale d’Assurance (Sonas / National Insurance Company) in 1967. The creation of
The company is continuing work on reorganization and
Sonas aimed to correct the phenomenon of the market at
its relations with the large companies and reinsurance
the time being dominated by foreign companies through
brokers by accepting large risks to give more security to
their offices throughout the DRC.
investors and large economic operators. The insurance sector in the DRC has enormous potential, which could
With the monopoly, the major government objectives
exceed US $300 million per annum, and will contribute
were to reinforce national sovereignty from the economic
effectively to the fight against poverty on the continent
point of view and to increase the ability of the insurance
and to the economic development of the nation.
sector to pay tax to the state. However, in a difficult environment and being unprepared, Sonas performed badly
TRUST MERCHANT BANK SARL
owing to several factors, including the insufficiency of its capital and working capital at the creation of the com-
Robert Levi
pany, levies on funds (prélevement), the instability of the
Administrateur Delegue Avenue Moero 761, Lubumbashi
management, etc.
Tel: +243-99-7023000 In spite of these problems, Sonas has achieved positive
Fax:+120-87-300711
results, such as the contribution of the insurance sector
Email: tmb@trustmerchantbank.com
to the financing of several economic and social projects,
Website: www.trustmerchantbank.com
The finance sector is moving!
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w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
Activity: Banking
business or to begin a new activity. This strategy is a pro-
Date of Creation: 1st August 2004
ject of social and economic development with the goal of
Employees: 300
revitalizing the economy to become a more legitimate, legal and protected framework.
The Trust Merchant Bank (TMB) is a limited liability company and the result of many working hours to research
TMB plans to open six new agencies throughout the
ethics in the business world. Since 2004 TMB has conti-
country in the coming years in order to extend its field of
nued to improve its performance and is today one of the
action. However, the sphere of influence of TMB is not
largest trade banks in the DRC. After promising begin-
limited to the DRC because several foreign institutions
nings in the town of Lubumbashi, other branches were
have expressed interest in investing in the capital of the
opened at various key places in Katanga province. It also
bank. This option has not yet been taken up because the
operates in the capital of the country, Kinshasa, with a
TMB is a family bank, which enjoys a good reputation,
market of more than 8 million people. TMB also has a
and which wishes as much as possible to maintain this
representative office in Brussels.
tradition, the fruit of its success and the quality of the services offered to its customers.
Being the first commercial bank with a micro-finance department in the DRC, TMB supports individuals nee-
TMB wants to be innovative and is engaged in conti-
ding targeted support to allow them to carry out their
nuous research for progress, in order to offer modern
ambitions. Its varied and multiple services (saving
services adapted to the needs of its customers, while
accounts, credit cards, international transfers, Internet
strictly respecting national and international require-
banking etc.) are aimed at private individuals but also
ments.
large, small or micro companies wanting to develop their TMB's original Lubumbashi branch - Pioneer in microfinance
137
FINANCE
eBizguides DRC
140
I N D U S T RY & T R A D E
The chimpanzee waited too long and thus has no tail (teach your children well while they are still young) Zela zela mokomboso azanga mokila Congolese saying 141
I N D U S T RY & T R A D E
eBizguides DRC
OVERVIEW
rators and production units, not only in Kinshasa but also inland following the plundering that occurred in 1991
The Congolese manufacturing industry contributes to
and 1993 and the aftermath of the wars in 1998 and
adding value to agricultural, mining and forestry produc-
2000.
tion through its varied resources as well as electrical power accessed at even lower cost.
In the course of trecent years there was a decline in production output, followed by a sudden rise in 2003.
However, despite the availability of power and the abundance of natural resources, the manufacturing industry
Industry contributed less than 5% value to GDP during
of the DRC is underdeveloped and produces essentially
the period from 2001 to 2006.
for the domestic market. In addition, it is reliant on foreign supplies for equipment and some intermediary
The country’s huge agricultural and hydroelectric poten-
commodities. The Congolese manufacturing industry is
tial is a key factor in the development of the large-scale
characterized by:
manufacturing industry in the DRC, all the more as development efforts are made for re-establishing a favourable
• Greater focus on consumer goods (import substitutes);
climate for business and investment.
• Strong concentration on the following provinces: Kinshasa, Bas-Congo and Katanga;
Currently, the industrial sector of the DRC consists of:
• Underutilization of capacity; • Lower competitiveness;
• Food: sugar, beverages, wheat flour, soya flour, food
• Inability to satisfy domestic demand.
for cattle, edible oil, biscuit factory; • Textiles and clothing;
In the past, the industrial base of the DRC was rich and
• Mining and metallurgy;
diversified, but it no longer has the same number of ope-
• Furniture;
Chanic's Chantier Navale - the country's oldest company
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eBizguides DRC • Timber;
delivered in 2007. The Achour Group has 100% control
• Chemicals;
of the companies.
• Pharmaceuticals;
BELTEXCO
• Oil; • Tobacco; • Packaging;
Rajesh Nambiar
• Construction.
Deputy Managing Director
MAIN COMPANIES
Tel: +243-99-9938899 / 818971666
1087 av. du Marché et Bas-Congo, Kinshasa/Gombe
Email: thenambiar@beltexco.com
ACHOUR GROUP
Website: www.beltexco.com
Abdul Sattar Achour
Activity: Brand representation and distribution all over
CEO
the DRC
134 Avenue Colonel Mondjiba,
Date of Creation: 1922
Commune de Ngaliema, Kinshasa
Capital: CDF 214,557,059
Tel: +243-89-8991616
Turnover: CDF 20,082,471,113
Email: stc.congo@googlemail.com
Employees: 950
The Achour brothers have worked together as a group
Ever since its inception in 1922, Beltexco Sarl has pros-
since the end of the 1970s. They have a collective parti-
pered consistently for over 85 years. It has persistently
cipation in financial and land assets in the economic sec-
grown and succeeded amidst the political instability in
tors of trade, industry, property and transport.
the DRC. Beltexco is the country’s leading mass distri-
In trade they own Sokin, which specializes in the whole-
rience in the market coupled with its in-depth understan-
butor of basic consumer goods. Its long-standing expe-
sale importation and distribution of basic foodstuffs in
ding of consumers provides it with innovative ways to
DRC. Sokin Vehicles is also part of the group and ensures
satisfy the Congolese population. It is divided into three
the importation, distribution and after-sales service of
divisions: industrial, trading and distribution, and finan-
personal commercial vehicles
cial services.
In the industry sector, the group owns Pain d’Or (indus-
Its modern management techniques, extensive distribu-
trial bakery), Biscuiterie Prince (biscuit factory), Cartomo
tion network and diverse product line have made the
(manufacturer of industrial packing), STC (construction
company a prominent and stable gateway to the country.
and public works) and CDC (manufacture of raw mate-
The company’s unique position has enabled the group to
rials for construction and public works). SEDEC is the pro-
make exclusive partnerships with international corpora-
perty company of the group.
tions such as Unilever, Nestlé, Colgate-Palmolive and Johnson & Johnson, to name a few.
Trans-Benz, the group transportation company, was created in 1981 and delivers road transport of goods bet-
Over time, the group has gained expertise in matching
ween the port of Matadi and the Congolese capital of
the needs and interests of such corporations with those
Kinshasa. The company also offers a storage service
of the Congolese consumers. This competitive edge has
thanks to its 20,000m2 of warehouses and garages in
ensured that the companies’ global brands have become
Kinshasa and Matadi. The fleet comprises 70 vehicles.
national household names. Beltexco is a trusted name in
Trans-Benz continues to reinforce and increase its acti-
DR Congo.
vity, with 20 new tractor-trailers ordered in 2006 and
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I N D U S T RY & T R A D E
eBizguides DRC
Embedded in Beltexco’s culture is a strong entrepreneu-
a high quality of its products, produced by the best
rial drive, which has enabled the group to expand and
machinery and highly skilled employees.
diversify successfully into new business sectors. At the moment Bralima offers the following products: its
BRALIMA
different beers are Primus, Turbo King, Mutzig and Guinness; and its soft drinks are Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprite,
Johan Hans van Mameren
Schweppes and Vital’O. Recently a new vitamin-filled soft
General Manager
drink called Maltina was introduced.
1 av. du Drapeau, B.P. 7246 Kinshasa
Bralima equipped its production factory with brand new
Tel: +243-99-8946909
facilities in 2002. This investment included two new bot-
Email: j.h_van_mameren@heineken.nl
tling lines, which have enabled it to drastically increase
Website: www.primus.cd
the efficiency of production. These sophisticated production units are unique in Africa, guaranteeing security and
Bralima Brasseries et Limonaderies was founded in 1923
hygiene up to European standards.
by Belgian investors. The brewery was built on the experience acquired from brewing experts, such as the know-
For Bralima, employees are the main force of the com-
how of brewers from the current owner, Heineken. With
pany. Since they form the basis of a bright future, Bralima
breweries all over the world, Heineken (founded in 1864)
invests in improving their skills and knowledge.
is one of the largest brewers in the world. After beco-
Therefore, they are often offered training courses within
ming a Heineken subsidiary, Bralima was fully able to
the DRC, and sometimes also abroad.
profit from Heineken’s extensive experience, built up throughout the years. Therefore, Bralima can guarantee
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eBizguides DRC By being present everywhere in the Democratic Republic
Tel: +243-81-8844782
of Congo, with production facilities in Boma, Kisangani,
Email: cpernoud@cfao.com
Bukavu, Lubumbashi, Mbandaka and the capital of
Website: www.cfaogroup.com
Kinshasa, and also by having storage facilities in many other places, Bralima aims to be as close as possible to every consumer.
As a subsidiary company of the PPR group, a world leader in the distribution of luxury goods, CFAO is present today in 34 countries in Africa and 6 French overseas territories.
Bralima always takes a special interest in the social and
Its 10,000 collaborators make up 135 subsidiary compa-
cultural aspects of Congolese life, and shows this by
nies over 286 sites. CFAO has four main business areas:
sponsoring many musical, theatrical, athletic and artistic
• CFAO Automotive: automobile distribution;
activities and events, thus caring about everyone. In addi-
• Eurapharma: pharmaceutical distribution;
tion to all these events, one can find the Bralima spirit in
• CFAO Industry and Trading: production and distribution
all the small street vendors and in all the bars and restau-
of consumer goods and equipment;
rants in the country. The DRC market lives in the joyful
• CFAO Technologies: new communication and informa-
and easygoing atmosphere of Bralima!
tion technologies.
CFAO MOTORS RDC
CFAO develops its organization by trades, reinforcing the professionalism of the brand name. It responds to the
Christian Pernoud
expectations of suppliers who prefer to entrust the distri-
CEO
bution of their marks and products to specialists. CFAO
17 av. des Poids Lourds,
meets customer requirements by offering a broad range of
B.P. 2200 Kinshasa
services associated with the various marketed products.
I N D U S T RY & T R A D E
eBizguides DRC
CFAO is also working for durable development. Under
Congo Futur Group is a Congolese company specializing
the aegis of CFAO Solidarité, it carries out the following
in import-export, processing and sawmilling, and the sale
projects:
of basic food items.
• Education: with 385 stockbrokers and professional training schemes;
Congo Futur was created in 1997 by CEO Ahmed
• Health: for 9,500 employees and their families as well
Tajideen and associates. It began with several companies:
as continuing to tackle HIV in the DRC.
Panikin, Pain D’Ivoire I & II, and Congo Futur Divers. Two years later, the group created Trans-M (transport depart-
CFAO operates in the DRC as CFAO Motors DRC. It is
ment), then in 2001 intensified its activities with
based in Kinshasa, Lubumbashi and Kolwezi. Its activity is
Cofuplast (Congo Futur plastic). In 2002 Biscof
organized around the following elements:
(Biscuiterie Congo Futur) was incorporated, followed by
Automobile distribution: brands represented are Toyota,
wood business of Trans-M (Trans-M/Bois).
Atcom (Atlantic Trading Company), and in 2004 the
Suzuki and Peugeot. Congo Futur embodies the open attitude in business Distribution of equipment: brands represented are:
advocated by the President of the DRC and his govern-
• Renault Trucks: marketing of 5T to 85T trucks;
ment, which encourages it to extend and promote its
• Bridgestone: tyres for cars and trucks;
activities in Kinshasa and other parts of the country, to
• Bomag: civil engineering machines and BTP;
help and support the government in its plan for eco-
• Silla: concrete-mixers;
nomic revival and rebuilding the country.
• Toyota: lifting trucks; • Massey Fergusson: agricultural tractors and equipment.
The company also has large cold storage facilities and
The team, made up of 200 people from all competencies
many vehicles to transport products from the port of
warehouses in Matadi and the DRC’s capital of Kinshasa,
(sales, maintenance, administrative), is motivated to
Matadi to Kinshasa and boats to move wood from
engage in true partnership with the actors in the deve-
Equateur to Kinshasa.
lopment of the DRC. Congo Futur has an oxygen factory, plastics industry,
CONGO FUTUR SPRL
modern biscuit factory, modern sawmill, and a construc-
Rachid El Chaer
construction sites, Future Tower, the 11-floor building in
General Director
downtown Gombe, and another bigger tower under
av. Kabasele Tshiamala 389, Concession,
construction. It has extensions in Kinshasa, Matadi,
Kinshasa, Gombe
Boma, Moanda, Befale, Bumba, Ndobo, Mbandaka and
Tel: +243-99-9932231 / 8929005 / 81-5000051
Kisangani.
tion department, which is currently developing two large
Fax: +243-1398190 Email: info@congofutur.com
The company’s commercial policy is to import and sell
Website: www.congofutur.com
large quantities of high-quality products at affordable
Activity: Import-export, processing, sawmill and sale of
all social levels to be able to buy goods regularly and
basic foodstuffs
profit from their savings more quickly.
prices on the market, so as to allow Congolese people of
Date of Creation: 1997
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eBizguides DRC
DOVER COSMETICS LTD
Its ‘top of the line’ products consist of an entire range of cosmetics products, such as: beauty lotions, moisturizing
Safdar Chatoo
creams, body milks, talcum powders for babies, as well as
General Manager
adults, shampoos, pomades, petroleum jelly, hair rela-
210, 6ème rue Limete
xers, nail polish removers, hair gels, and baby oils.
Tel: +243-819-938871 Fax: +243-144-03060841
Dover is proud of its evolution in the DRC: beginning
Email: dovco@ic.cd, congostore@ic.cd
with only two products, it now licenses eigth top brands:
Date of Creation: 1993
Elegance, Elegance Clair and Coco Clair, among others.
Bebe Rico, Miki, Miki Clair+, Rein de Clair, Super Clair,
Since 1981, Congo Stores Sprl has been involved in
Dover Cosmetics strives to provide innovative and reliable
importation and trading activities.
products to its customers, who look for the best in cosmetic, beauty and sundry products, while always catering
In 1993, the company Dover Cosmetics Limited was cre-
to customer demands.
ated. Today, Dover is one of the leading cosmetics manufacturers in the Democratic Republic of Congo and more
DCL is one of the most trusted, reliable and efficient
widely in Central Africa meeting customers’ needs for
manufacturing companies in the DRC. Quality assurance
any cosmetic and beauty products. Dover’s factory and
and consistency of service is at the heart of its business
head office are situated in Kinshasa, the capital of the
and Dover is always ready to address itself to the chan-
DRC. Dover’s products are marketed by Congo Stores,
ging needs of customers. Dover has a full in-house labo-
with five branches situated throughout the country.
ratory, which takes care of research and development and new product launches.
I N D U S T RY & T R A D E
eBizguides DRC
Personal interaction by the founder himself with each
professionals have one main objective: providing quality
and every member of staff is the key to the successful
and expertise within the world of feminine beauty.
growth of the DCL group. The founder and president of Dover Cosmetics Limited is also a partner in Swissta RDC,
Diversity is an important word for Ghandour, which
Sprl, which is involved in the manufacturing and distribu-
transcends not only its ample array of products, but the
tion of pure mineral water under the brand name of
composition of its team of professionals as well.
‘Swissta’. Ghandour’s products are all made of natural products In line with its expansion plan, DCL is going to amplify
and produced with the latest technological innovations.
the importation of goods from Europe and start the
Its brands are enhanced by a qualitative knowhow that
manufacturing of soaps, detergents and oil based pro-
has been customers for more than 20 years.
ducts. The popular range of cosmetics includes a panoply of DCL also contributes to boosting the DRC’s economy by
products such as perfumes, eau de cologne, deodorants,
giving local employment to workers, through its working
beauty creams, soaps, shampoos, conditioners, hair rela-
with local manufacturers for corrugated boxes and plastic
xers, gels, hair dyes, soft soap creams, powders, nail var-
packaging, which are necessary for its final products.
nishes, varnish removers, body oils and glycerine.
Dover always encourages local employment and favours training of professional responsibilities by delegating cru-
Ghandour is always on the lookout for new products and
cial technical positions. Dover also contributes to the
keeps a competitive edge throughout Africa, with tailor-
socioeconomic growth of the DRC by donating funds,
made products from country to country, always with the
assisting, organizing and sponsoring events, like ‘Miss
client in mind. It makes quality products for the masses
Francophone’ and other activities, which encourage local
and strive to enhance women’s natural beauty.
talent. Ghandour - Making every day beautiful
GHANDOUR INDUSTRIE CONGO GROUP ELWIN BLATTNER (GBE) Zikar Ghandour Administrator Director
Michael Blattner
13ième rue Limete, Boulevard Lumumba,
Accounts Manager
BP 11997 Kinshasa 1
Route des Poids Lourds 2, Kingabwa, Kinshasa
Tel: +243-99-9906357
Tel: +243-85-1303685
Fax: +33-15-3012899
Email: contact@gbedrc.com
Email: ghandour@ic.cd The Group Elwin Blattner is composed of six different Date of Creation: 1985
companies, all specializing in the exploitation of agricultural fields all over the country. The company also owns
In 1985, Ghandour Industrie Congo group implemented
factories, which allows it to transform primary products
itself in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
into finished products.
Ghandour
has developed its own cosmetic research centre dedicated to the beauty and the well being of families and
The first of these companies, the Société de Cultures et
especially women.
d’Industries Agricoles au Mayumbe (SCAM), is established in the province of Bas-Congo and exploits
Inspired by a dynamic creativity and continuously resear-
1,142ha of cocoa in share-cropping plots, 3,350ha of
ching for innovative formulas, Ghandour Perfumery’s
hévéa, 95ha of coffee, and 12,079ha of other agricul-
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eBizguides DRC tural land, savannas, forests and forest cultures. SCAM
pany replanted 200ha of palm trees and foresees plan-
has three factories for processing.
ting 300ha/year over the next five years.
In Province Orientale, Busira Lomami Orientale, located in
This long-term strategy and the panoply of different com-
the district of Tshopo (Isangi), exploits palm trees over a
panies all over the DRC allow the group to be strong and
total area of 4,283ha. The company has a replanting pro-
to perform well in all industries.
gramme over four years, with 400ha being replanted each year from 2006 to 2009.
GROUP FORREST
But it is in Equateur that GBE has implemented most of
Avenue Usoke 359, Quartier Industriel,
its companies. Busira Lomami Equateur in Tshauapa’s
B.P. 1531, Lubumbashi
principal activity is hévéa culture in a plantation covering
Tel: +243-23-42232
9,199ha. In the same province, the Companie de
Fax: +243-23-42275
Commerce et des Plantations is located in the territory of
Email: gfia@forrestrdc.com
Basankusu and owns a manufacturing plant for soap in
Website: www.forrestgroup.com
Lisafa and two factories for production of palm oil in Lisafa and in Ndeke. Also based in Lisala, the Société de
Forrest Group was created in 1922. This was the year in
Culture Congolais Binga (SCC Binga) is made up of four
which Malta Forrest created this company in the province
factories producing oil, coffee, latex and cocoa. Still in
of Katanga in the south of the Belgian Congo (the pre-
Equateur, SCC Bosondjo in the territory of Bongandanga
sent Democratic Republic of Congo).
owns oil, coffee and cocoa factories. In 2006 the com-
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eBizguides DRC
From 1933 onwards, this transport company moved
Group Orgaman aims to ensure the integration of all the
towards mining activities (copper, manganese, gold) and
companies that contribute to the same business object as
at the start of the 1950s developed its own activities in
Orgaman Sprl, which is to commercialize frozen foods
the fields of civil engineering and public works. The
and to restructure some companies so they can ensure
Forrest Group continued to develop with its 1992 acqui-
their profitability.
sition of cement plants and a coal mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and its 1994 acquisition of an engi-
Moreover, Group Orgaman wishes to develop national
neering and construction company in the United Arab
production and is intensifying its efforts in this field. This
Emirates.
is why Group Orgaman is currently in a transition phase
Today, management in the form of a holding company
production. This transition can be seen through the agri-
represents several companies spread out over four of the
cultural, property and mining companies, which are enti-
five continents.
rely part of Group Orgaman.
between importation and the development of national
At present Forrest Group’s activities include: industrial
This group includes nine companies, which employ 1,650
full-line suppliers, cement plants, food manufacturing,
people. These companies involve investments of more
property and brokerage, civil engineering, mining deve-
than US $30 million and are present in five of the 11 pro-
lopments, metallurgical treatment, aviation and health
vinces of the DRC (Kinshasa, Bas-Congo, Bandundu,
care centres.
Eastern Province and Kivu-Nord).
MAFRICOM SPRL
“In this multi-technical mixing pot, the Forrest Group has built up global experience, confirmed by the presence of Group companies in Africa, Europe and the Middle East.” George A. Forrest
GROUPE ORGAMAN Jean Pierre Barbier
Mohamed Ali
General Secretary (Secrétaire Général)
Associe Gerant
Av. Lt. Col. Lukusa,
295 Avenue Basoko, Kinshasa
B.P. 1598, Kinshasa
Tel: +243-81-9941259
Tel: +243-85-1303685
Fax: +243-81-2616263 / 85-230176680
Email: barbier@orgaman.com
Email: mafricom@gbs.cd
Date of Creation: 1931
Date of Creation: 1991
The history of Group Orgaman follows that of the
Mafricom was founded in Kinshasa on 1st June 1991 by
Damseaux Family, which established itself in the DRC in
Mr Ali Mohamed Shams as a small-scale used clothing
1931. Group Orgaman (Organization, Participation and
importer. Between 1991 and 1998 Mafricom has steadily
Management) is managed by Mr William Damseaux and
expanded its operations, spreading to Kisangani, Goma,
his son Jean-Claude, two of the most important Belgian
Lubumbashi, Tchikapa and Mbuji-Mayi.
private investors in the DRC. Mafricom believes in delivering quality products at affordable prices and its aim is to reach the general public.
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w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
eBizguides DRC This policy of consistent quality has created the company’s good reputation among all its customers.
Mafricom has seen healthy growth due to its devoted, ambitious and hardworking people. The company believes in its employees and considers them to be an
In 2001 the company signed an exclusive distributorship
important asset to the company. To create employment
agreement with the Irish Dairy Board to launch Kerrygold
for local people, Mafricom invests significantly in local
products in the DRC.
manufacturing and marketing of its own brands. All these actions and more help the company to maintain
The company started its first sachet milk powder packa-
good relations with its suppliers, the local government
ging factory. Simultaneously, the company set up an
and its employees.
aggressive marketing programme, as it became conscious of the necessity of brand building. Meanwhile,
Presently, the company distributes products under the
Mafricom has flourished in the second-hand clothing
brands Kerrygold, Happy Cow, Energie and Bonheur.
business and has become the biggest importer in the country.
Mafricom’s vision is to produce and distribute world-class products at affordable prices for local clients. The com-
In 2004 Mafricom diversified into producing yoghurt
pany is continuously looking for new distributorships of
drinks under the Kerrygold name. After two years of
consumer goods from leading multinational corpora-
struggling, it finally achieved the positive results it knew
tions.
it should have.
I N D U S T RY & T R A D E
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Training in labour skills is indispensible for the future of the country
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SAFRICAS
In the production sector, Safricas makes its own bitumen/granite mix for its own building purposes as well
David Blattner
as for other contractors in DRC. The company also has
Administrator
two high-quality sandstone quarries in Lutendele and
1 Route des Poids Lourd, Quartier Kinbabwa,
Kasangulu. These quarries supply the building sites of the
Kinshasa/Limete
construction industry of Safricas and other companies.
Tel: +243-81-9000000 / 85-1805500 Email: david.blattner@usa.net
Safricas has its own concrete plants so it can feed its buil-
Website: www.safricas.com
ding sites and provide concrete to third parties as well. Thanks to the Safricas quarries, the concrete plant is fed
Safricas, one of the DRC’s powerhouses in many different
with top-quality aggregate.
domains, is made up of companies covering more than 10 different activities. Safricas covers public works and
Safricas has its own harbour infrastructure on the Congo
housing through construction of buildings big and small
River in Kinkole. Located less than 40km from Kinshasa,
alike, and through the construction and the rehabilitation
it allows the unloading of boats for Safbois, the forestry
of many roads in the DCR. In addition to the thousands
company of the group, among others, so as to supply
of tarred roads and other sand tracks built between 1965
materials for the building sites, and it can also be used for
and 2000, Safricas counts among its last achievements
harbour services.
the paved section of the Kinshasa–Matadi road and the Bankana–Kwango one.
Finally, entrepreneurs, manufacturers, subcontractors and even private individuals can consult Safricas to hire transport, civil engineering and construction equipment.
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154
M I N I N G
&
O I L
When the bee comes to your house, let her have beer; you may want to visit the bee's house some day
Congolese saying
155
MINING & OIL
eBizguides DRC
MINING
Such a big potential is set to place the DRC as a leading
The DRC offers a huge mining potential with reserves of
provide an adequate mining plant to integrate mining
ore producer. Unfortunately, the DRC is not yet able to
copper, cobalt, diamond, gold, zinc, cadmium, silver, tin,
and transformation or to produce semi-processed pro-
tungsten, manganese, uranium, Colombo-tantalite
ducts with higher added value in the market.
(coltan) etc. Its mineral reserves rank second for copper and cobalt (accounting for 10% of all world reserves).
The mining infrastructure is a legacy from the colonial
The Gecamines reserves of cobalt represent 80% of
era. Gecamines is the leading mining company (formerly
world reserves.
Union Minière), which has faced major changes following
In the 1980s, mining production represented 25% of
industries, particularly in Katanga.
insolvency and the emergence of small-scale mining
GDP. In 2001, because of the collapse of formal mining activity and the increase of artisanal ones, the mining
Statistics show that industrial mining production output,
production declined to 7% of GDP. However, thanks to
which formerly yielded the major revenues of the
the welfare production of diamonds, the level of mining
Congolese economy, collapsed in the early 1990s. Copper
re-grew to 16% of GDP in 2006. Mining production was
production, for instance, has fallen from 465,000 tonnes
boosted with the return of international mining compa-
in 1990 to 18,000 tonnes in 2006; zinc production fell
nies, which for decades were not authorised to exploit in
from 54,043 tonnes in 1990 to 15,110 tonnes in 2005.
DRC. This foreign reintegration was made possible by the new mining code, promulgated in 2002, under the World
However, diamond mining has seen an outstanding
Bank auspices. The actual law, while limiting the State’s
expansion, due basically to the contributions of small-
intervention, guarantees property rights and strengthens
scale diamond operators. Between 1989 and 2005 the
the government’s control on exploitations.
production output of diamonds has doubled from 17 million to 34 million carats. After decades of corruption and government’s monopoly, which worsened the situa-
Malachite is another major mining resource in the Congo
tion, President Kabila liberalised the production.
Gold is mainly mined in the east by a state-owned company (Kilo Moto located in Bunia); gold production output has decreased following the 10-year period of war. Investments are in the process of realization via joint-venture companies in order to boost prospecting activities, exploration and production in Ituri.
Mismanagement of state-owned mining companies and the fall in prices of the main mining products, including copper, are the main reasons behind the collapse of the mining sector in the DRC. The plundering and looting of 1991 and 1993, aggravated by wars and rebellious movements in the period from 1996 to 2003, have thereafter knocked this sector down. This sector under these conditions, only accounts for 14% of GDP in 2006 against 80% in 1960.
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w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
Colourful mineral layers so evident in Katanga's rich soil
These data are an indication of the huge investment
Kulumaziba River. These rejections, which lie across an
potential in the sector, especially in light of the release of
area of 10.5 miles (17km), are under a form of crude
the new Mining Code and the setting up of the Cadastre
malachite.
Minier (mining registry office) and general measures for
• Anvil Mining (Kinsevere site), involved in industrial
restructuring the portfolio of state-owned companies.
mining and the transformation of copper ingots with an output capacity of 25,000 tonnes per year.
The vitality of copper and cobalt mining has already
• Tenke Fungurume Mining, which plans to produce
received a boost with the opening in Katanga of several
115,000 tonnes of copper and 8,000 of cobalt by 2008.
new large-scale units including:
Société de Terril de Lubumbashi (STL), which processes
• The Kamoto Copper Company (KCC), which has rehabi-
the mining spoils in Lubumbashi.
litated the underground mines of Kamoto, the concen-
• Frontier Sprl and KMT, created by the Canadian group
trator at KTC and the hydrometallurgic factory at Luilu.
First Quantum, which are exploiting copper and cobalt.
This company plans to produce 150,000 tonnes of copper
Ruashi Mining, whose plant is set up at Ruashi, a hinter-
and 5,000 tonnes of cobalt by 2013, creating 12,000 jobs.
land in Lubumbashi, with a production output of 50,000
• The DRC and the Cobalt Projects (DCP) are aimed at
tonnes per annum of copper metal expected in 2010.
exploiting the Kamoto Oliviera Virgule open-air mine
• Moors Drilling Mining Congo Sprl, which is subcontrac-
(KOV). The company is establishing big plants for copper
ting company whose business aims at fitting-up and sani-
refinery throughout the world with a peak production of
tation of mines.
250,000 tonnes of copper cathodes and 270,000 tonnes
• Stanley Layne Mining Sprl, which is also involved in fit-
of cobalt per year by 2010.
ting-up and sanitation of mines
• The Société Minière de Kolwezi envisages recycling copper rejections from the former Mutoshi plant on the
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MINING & OIL
eBizguides DRC
HYDROCARBONS
international company Perenco Oil of France. The US company Union Oil and the Japanese Teikoku are two
The DRC has been a producer and exporter of oil since
other important actors. The reserves are essentially
1975. But it has the potential which may rank it among
located in the Congo River estuary and estimated at
the greatest producers of oil in Africa. The prospecting
187m barrels.
campaign undertaken in the eastern, western and central regions has identified hydrocarbons in the Central Basin,
The consumption of oil products is currently estimated at
the Rift Valley in eastern DRC and at the borderline with
770,000 cubic metres per annum. The needs may be
Uganda.
assessed at 2,000,000 cubic metres. Oil is sold at 1 US $ per litre at filling stations.
Hydrocarbon reserves have been identified on the Atlantic coastline and are exploited offshore and onshore
MAIN COMPANIES
by the company Perenco. Statistics indicate an average production of 25,000 to 30,000 barrels per day from
ANVIL MINING
2000 to 2006, which is all exported. Mike O’Sullivan The DRC possesses a refinery with a capacity of 75,000
CEO
tonnes per year run by the Société Congolaise des
7409 av. de la Revolution, Lubumbashi
Industries de Raffinage (SOCIR). This refinery plant is
Tel: +61-86-4652310
designed for the purpose of processing semi-crude
Website: www.anvilmining.com
imported oil. It produces two-star petrol, fuel for aircraft, gas oil and fuel oil. It can operate using inputs of
Anvil Mining is the leading copper producer in the
Congolese crude oil provided some improvements are
Democratic Republic of Congo. The company’s success, since first production in 2002, has been based on respon-
made to the machinery.
sible development, community partnerships and contiOn technical grounds, refinery activities have been in
nued improvement in shareholder value.
abeyance since 2000 and the company’s activities are focused on importing and warehousing of oil.
Anvil has a clear and achievable growth strategy sup-
A consequence of the stoppage of activities of SOCIR is
more than double copper production from 40,000 tonnes
the shortage the DRC faces regarding the procurement
in 2007 to over 100,000 tonnes per annum in 2010, at the
ported by high-grade resources. The company plans to
same time as investing in downstream processing to add
of oil products, which mainly come from abroad.
value to the company’s products. The four key elements of Despite these weaknesses, the hydrocarbon sector is one
the growth strategy are to maximize the value and sustai-
with prospects owing to:
nability of the company’s foundation mining project at
• Encouraging indications of the presence of hydrocar-
Dikulushi, to increase returns from the Kulu tailings project
bons over several prospected fields;
near Mutoshi, to develop a world-class copper project at
• An important network of deposits of oil byproducts
Kinsevere, and to confirm a 500,000 tonne copper reserve
• Provisions aimed at liberalization in the marketing of oil
at Anvil’s Mutoshi project in the heart of the African
products;
Copperbelt. The strategy is building on the solid founda-
• The upward trend of crude oil prices;
tion of mining and processing established at low-risk
• The rise in the worldwide oil demand.
copper and silver projects developed in the past five years.
DRC is a small oil producer. The main part of the produc-
The company has three established mining and proces-
tion, over 70%, is offshore, with a domination of the
sing operations at Dikulushi, Kulu and Kinsevere.
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Kinsevere Stage I HMS Plant was commissioned during
AngloGold Ashanti. AGK is currently in a phase of explo-
the first week of June 2007, producing the first copper
ration in Ituri (northern DRC) with two ambitious pro-
concentrates on 9th June 2007.
grammes of exploration on concession 40, covering nearly 10,000 km2. The first exploration programme is
Strong commitment to sustainability and corporate social
concentrated on the mining zone of Mongbwalu and is
responsibility is helping to set the foundation for conti-
approaching a decisive phase. The second takes care of
nued development of Anvil’s operations. Anvil is establis-
the remainder of the concession with intensive opera-
hing a comprehensive and transparent approach to cor-
tions of drilling and aeromagnetic cartography. Since it
porate social responsibility – building on successful com-
started its activities of exploration in 2005, AGK has cre-
munity development programmes from the company’s
ated more than 500 jobs in the DRC.
first years in operation. Like the international group AGA, AGK is guided by prinThe company’s commitment to the community was ensh-
ciples of good governorship, transparency, ethics, respect
rined in the initial mining agreement between Anvil and
for the environment and involvement of the local com-
the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
munities. AGK practises a respectful community develop-
Under the terms of the agreement, Anvil was committed
ment based on close cooperation with the population
to investing 10% of the profits from its Dikulushi Mining
and a reinforcement of their capacities.
Operation in local community development. Several social projects such as the rehabilitation of the
ASHANTI GOLDFIELDS KILO SARL
Bunia–Mongbwalu road, bridges and schools have allowed the opening-up and the improvement of the
Guy-Robert Lukama
living conditions of the communities living in the area of
Country Manager
Mongbwalu.
AGK, Tour BCDC, 11th Floor, bld du 30 juin, Gombe, Kinshasa
AGK wants to have a sustainable development and,
Tel: +243-99-0900410
through various projects, to contribute to the socioeco-
Fax: +27-11-6376577
nomic development of Ituri, the maintenance of peace
Email: Ms Veronique Tshiamala, Executive Assistant
and the industrial rise of the DRC.
VTshiamala@anglogoldashanti.com Website: www.anglogoldashanti.com
BOSS MINING
Activity: Mining exploration
Mutale Johnson Deroyer
Date of Creation: 1990
Financial Director – Management Member
Employees: 411
1876 av. Lac Kipopo Tel: +243-81-4530168
AngloGold Ashanti (AGA) is an active multinational in the
Fax: +243-99-7015637
gold mining sector and carries on its activities of mining
Email: johnson.deroyer@bossmining.com
exploration and exploitation in 10 countries across four continents. AGA is listed on the stock exchanges of
Boss Mining Sprl is the result of a partnership between
Johannesburg, London, Australia, Ghana, Paris and
Central African Mining & Exploration Company (Camec), with 80% of the authorized capital, and Gécamines,
Brussels.
which holds 20% of the shares of the authorized capital. In DRC, AGA is represented by its subsidiary company
Boss Mining Sprl has been in production since 2004. It
Ashanti Goldfields Kilo (AGK), created from the part-
exploits the cupro-cobaltiferous layers approved by
nership
exploitation licences EP 467 and EP 469, 151 and 273
between
Okimo
(Congolese
State)
and
159
MINING & OIL
eBizguides DRC
mining squares, covering the concessions C19 and C21 located around Kakanda.
Chemaf Sprl is a growing mining and metallurgy company based in Lubumbashi in eastern DRC whose prin-
In Luita (22km from Kakanda), Boss Mining Sprl is buil-
cipal activities include mineral exploration, mining and
ding a hydro-metallurgical treatment plant, which will
processing. The company is privately owned and is part
cost US $350 million. This factory will produce 20,000
of the Shalina Group, which has been operational in the
tonnes of copper by 2007.
DRC for nearly 30 years.
The production will reach 100,000 tonnes of copper and
The company produces LME grade A copper cathodes
6,000 tonnes of cobalt in 2008. Boss Mining Sprl is also
and has made significant progress in technology to pro-
associated through Mukondo Mining Sprl with Company
duce pure cobalt cathodes using solvent extraction and
Savannah Mining Sprl (formerly KMC: Kababankola
electrowinning technology. Other products include sul-
Mining Compagny Sprl), with equal shares (50/50).
phuric acid for its own consumption and also for sale
Mukondo Mining Sprl works the mine of Mukondo,
locally in the DRC. Current production is 100 tonnes per
which extends across two mining squares from the C19
day and this will be increased by 500 tonnes per day by
concession. To date, Boss Mining Sprl employs directly
mid 2008. A significant proportion of this output from
and indirectly 5,000 workers in Luita, Kakanda, Likasi,
the new plant will be sold locally.
Kambove and Lubumbashi, and this figure is increasing. In the DRC the company operates the 100% owned With a monthly production of 100 tonnes of cobalt con-
Etoile mine including a number of old ore dumps on the
centrates and 1,000 tonnes of copper, the monthly sales
site under exploitation licence 577, which provides oxides
turnover of Boss Mining Sprl, since April 2007, is around
for the nearby processing plant at Usoke Avenue and
US $8.5 million. Moreover, since March 2007, Boss Mining
longer term will provide mixed ores and sulphides. The
pays US $300,000 per month to Gécamines as an advance
current copper cathode output is 16,000 tonnes per
on dividends, or US $3,600,000 per year. Boss Mining is
annum and this is being developed in 2008 to increase to
also interested in everything related to its workers and
30,000 tonnes per annum. Cobalt production will be
surrounding population. Within this framework, it rehabi-
over 6,000 tonnes per annum during 2008. Following
litated the Likasi–Luambo–Fungurume–Kakanda section of
depletion of oxide feed, an additional expansion of the
the trunk road n°1, and the Likasi–Kambove–Kakanda sec-
sulphide circuit will be developed, subject to raising
tion. It also refurbished the hospital of Kakanda, which
finance via a company flotation. The flotation is sche-
receives weekly assistance for purchasing drugs. It has
duled for early 2009.
completely revitalized the social heart of Kakanda. Integral to the long-term strategy in the DRC, the comBoss Mining also built the maternity hospital of the Likasi
pany is actively seeking to increase its resource base with
camp and improved the city of Kakanda by repairing the
exploration active over 15,000 square kilometres. The
street lighting, distributing water and electricity, clearing
group is developing an extensive exploration programme
out the gutters and rehabilitating the street.
with the objective of finding new resources of copper, cobalt and other minerals.
CHEMAF SPRL Chemaf is already one of the largest investors in Katanga, Anar Ansel
having invested over US $100 million over the past five
Director
years. The company is committed to developing the
144 av. Usoke, Lubumbashi
regional infrastructure and to this end the group has
Tel: +44-7917686420
already agreed to finance road-building projects and has
Email: info@chemaf.com
opened the Shalina Eye Clinic for free eye treatment in
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w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
the town of Lubumbashi. Another key area of focus is to
Spice Energy is an industrial conglomerate with well-esta-
develop the local people through training and career
blished businesses in India and Africa by means of signi-
opportunities. Other projects planned include education,
ficant presence in: Oil and Gas, Aviation, Construction,
free hospital treatment, agriculture and fish farming.
and the Hospitality industry. The group’s extensive mana-
COBIT-SRM EXPLORATION SPRL
Whether it may be mission-critical core activities like ope-
gement experience extends across these sectors.
ration of an aviation fleet, hydroelectric dams, power staSam Rajpal
tions and oil fields, or more service-oriented knowledge
CEO
in developing and managing some of the finest interna-
Imm. Interfina
tional hotel properties the leadership team brings rich-
Boulevard du 30 juin
ness and diversity to Spice Energy. Spice Energy is aspi-
N° 503, 1er étage, Commune de la Gombe, Kinshasa
ring to become a world-class oil and gas company inte-
Tel: +243-999302/731/732/739/740
grated in the energy business. The company focuses on
Email: info@cobit-srm.com
domestic and international oil and gas with both ups-
Website: www.spicenergy.com
tream and downstream activities.
Activity: Petroleum bitumen, tar
In the Democratic Republic of Congo Spice Group has
Date of Creation: 2004
signed a concession agreement for a tar sand field for the
Capital: US $ 1 Billion
production of bitumen operated by Cobit-SRM. The com-
Turnover: US $ 1.6 Billion
pany will be in full-scale production by the second half of
Employees: 12,000
2008. The bitumen reserves are currently estimated at 220 million tonnes. Cobit-SRM has the only known tar
MINING & OIL
eBizguides DRC
sand field in the Democratic Republic of Congo; with this
with the Spice Group image of a socially and environ-
asset and the relevant technical and management exper-
mentally responsible institution worthy of emulation. As
tise Cobit–SRM is positioned to become the key provider
concerned citizens of the environment the group conti-
of bitumen in the country. The upgrade of bitumen to be
nuously conducts environmental impact studies and has
useable for road infrastructure is vital to further develop-
the following plans in place: biodiversity conservation,
ment within the DRC, and indeed the production of
solid waste management, restoration of quarry sites,
bitumen is one of the cornerstones of the ‘five founda-
green belt, environmental monitoring, landscaping,
tions of development’ promoted by His Excellency The
health care, resettlement and rehabilitation, catchments
President of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
area treatment and forestation.
Cobit-SRM, in line with the Spice Group vision, is actively
Other group projects include:
involved in supporting the local community by providing
• Samanah Hotels: A project to build leading five star
essential primary schooling, housing and health care for
hotels in Marrakech, Morocco.
the villages in the concession as well as much needed
• Spice Jet: A low-cost airline operating in India.
employment opportunities. It also provides safe drinking
• SRM Infrastructure Limited: Implementing a multipro-
water for communities, by installing a treatment plant
duct Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in the National Capital
and a 4Km water pipeline. The provision of electricity to
Region (NCR), New Delhi, India.
society is also one of its obligations. Thus it confirming
“We are continuously looking to add
the company’s commitment to social responsibility.
more spice to our group!” The emphasis is on responsible mining with land rehabi-
Sam Rajpal,CEO
litation as a requirement of the Board, keeping in line Approximately US $5 million in copper powder for smelting!
166
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
DRC COPPER AND COBALT PROJECT (DCP)
EMAXON SPRL
Simon B. Tuma-Waku
Pieter Deboutte
Chairman
Managing Director
Galerie du Centenaire 2-A3, bld du 30 juin,
Galerie du Centenaire 2b4, bld du 30 juin,
Kinshasa/Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-81-7152217
Tel: +243-99-9919410
Fax: +243-81-3464009
Fax: +243-81-3013831
Email: stuma-waku@nikanor.co.uk
Email: pdb@gbs.cd Website: www.dgi-group.com
Gécamines and Global Enterprise Corporate (GEC), a subsidiary of Nikanor quoted in the London Stock
Activity: Natural resources exploration, related finance, pro-
Exchange, joined to create DCP (DRC Copper and Cobalt
ject management and stakeholder relations services.
Project), owned 20% Gécamines, 5% Congolese state
Date of Creation: 2001
and 75% GEC. The main goal of this project is the exploi-
Employees: 170
tation of the KOV (Kamoto-Oliveira-Virgule) open-cast Founded in 1996, the DGI Group is a leader in the deve-
mine.
lopment of natural resources in emerging markets. It is For this project, Nikanor (head office of GEC) and DCP
engaged in all aspects of the value chain, from explora-
want to raise more than US $1 billion for the construction
tion and project finance to logistics and mining, from
of a refinery in Kolwezi. In 2009 the first copper refined
refining and distribution to communications and consul-
at 99.99% will be produced by this factory, which will be
ting. Its expertise ranges from diamonds to copper,
one of the largest copper refineries in the world. This fac-
cobalt, real estate, finance, plastics, agriculture and bio-
tory will be unique of its kind and will include in its spe-
fuels. The group operates in North and South America,
cifications an extraction by solvent and an increasing
Israel, Africa and Europe.
profit in its electrolysis technology. EMAXON Sprl offers expertise in natural resources exploIt will be able to produce 250,000 tonnes of copper
ration, mining, stakeholder relations and general project
cathode per annum. The factory will also produce around
management. Based in Kinshasa, the company is the
270,000 tonnes of cobalt per annum.
main vehicle for the DGI Group's many diverse industrial activities in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In 2001,
By 2010 DCP will reach the threshold of its production
the DGI Group created Emaxon Finance International to
capacity and the company will then be able to employ
invest in mining infrastructure projects.
1,800 full-time agents. It is anticipated that for each job created within DCP, seven others will be created to sup-
Emaxon provides a source of project financing where tra-
port the expanding local economy in domains such as
ditional sources may otherwise not be readily available.
shops, food, agriculture, fish shops, transport, etc.
For example, Emaxon provided a financing package for the Société Minière de Bakwanga (MIBA) to assist MIBA
DCP has undertaken several projects with the aim of
with the paying of wages and purchase of new equip-
rehabilitating Kolwezi: schools, roads, hospital and health
ment to take advantage of new diamond deposits and
centres, supply of energy and drinking water, community
increase exports. The innovative financing arrangement
infrastructure, etc.
offered MIBA a lifeline and the DGI Group a supply of legally mined diamonds despite significant challenges. Emaxon has also continued to offer assistance to MIBA during its ongoing financial difficulties.
167
eBizguides DRC In 2005, DGI built the first and only diamond-polishing
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
FIRST QUANTUM MINERALS LTD
factory in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. By bringing international experts to train local staff, Emaxon
Jeffrey Ovian
Polishing has created an important pool of talent, ena-
Country Manager
bling the company's staff of 125 to produce polished dia-
1029 bld Kamanyola, B.P. 555, Lubumbashi
monds to the highest international quality levels. Emaxon
Tel: +243-81-4000051
Polishing represents a significant investment and techno-
Fax: +243-81-3010278
logy transfer that ultimately will help the DRC to retain a
Email: jeffrey.ovian@fqmi.com
significantly greater portion of the value in the diamond
Website: www.first-quantum.com
value chain. First Quantum Minerals Ltd is a growing mining and DGI International Ltd is a global consulting firm working
metals company whose principal activities include
in a variety of industry sectors that helps clients identify
mineral exploration, development and mining. The com-
business opportunities, recruit staff, raise capital,
pany produces LME grade A copper cathode, copper con-
manage projects and communicate with a full range of
centrate, gold and sulphuric acid.
stakeholders including national and local government, media, international organizations, non-governmental
The company’s operations in Zambia include the 100%
organizations and others. Its clients operate in the copper
owned Bwana Mkubwa SX/EW facility, sulphuric acid
and cobalt and logistics sectors in the Balkans, Central
plants and the 80% owned Kansanshi open-pit copper
Africa, the Ivory Coast and South Africa.
and gold mine. First Quantum also holds strategic investments in the Nkana underground copper mine and cobalt refinery (16.9%) and the Mufulira underground
MINING & OIL
eBizguides DRC
copper mine, smelter and copper refinery (16.9%) in
In 2006 First Quantum produced 183,000 tonnes of copper and reported a net profit of US $414 million. In
Zambia.
2007 First Quantum was forecast to produce 215,000 In the Democratic Republic of Congo, First Quantum ope-
tonnes of copper, a 31% increase over 2006.
rates the 100% owned Lonshi open-pit copper mine, which provides oxide copper ore for processing at Bwana
Not only is this company making higher profits every
Mkubwa, a 95% interest in the Frontier copper deposit,
year, but it is also taking the enviroment into account.
and a 65% interest in the Kolwezi copper-cobalt tailings
The company has environmental management systems in
project.
place at each of its current operations. The procedures
In Mauritania, First Quantum operates the 80% owned
company’s environmental management systems are in
Guelb Moghrein copper gold mine.
line with ISO 14001 requirements. The overall goals
and protocols that form the operating framework of the
include: a commitment of management to pollution preAnd out come the rocks
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
vention; compliance with pertinent environmental regu-
It has 30 exploitation licences, 36 research licences, 1
lations and legislation; and continual improvement to
authorization for exploitation of permanent quarries and
protect the environment.
one authorization of research in quarry materials.
In terms of health and safety, First Quantum implements
Gécamines is ready to subcontract the exploration of a
internationally accepted occupational health and safety
part of its operations to mining companies interested in
standards and procedures throughout its operations. The
the creation of common partnerships and also wants to
company complies with all national laws on health and
subcontract its mining operation to develop its extraction
safety in the workplace in order to create a safe work-
sites. The other activities of the company are the produc-
place, thereby protecting its employees from accident
tion of cables and copper bars for the electrification of
and sickness. These laws are in line with International
the country as well as the manufacture of various spare
Labor Organization recommendations.
parts for the harmonious operation of the industrial facilities in the DRC.
First Quantum is always mindful of its responsibility towards the community in which it operates.
SOCIÉTÉ MINIÈRE DE BAKWANGA (MIBA)
GÉCAMINES (GÉNÉRALE DES CARRIÈRES ET DES MINES)
Gustave Luabeya CEO 4 Place de la Coopération, Mbuji-Mayi
Calixte Mukasa Kalembwe
Tel: +243-87-3682087321
CEO
Fax: +243-87-3682087322
419 bld Kamanyola, Lubumbashi, Katanga Tel: +243-2341105 / 2341314
Date of Creation: 1919
Fax: +243-2341041 / 2341099
Capital: US $3,900 million
Email: Gécamines.adg@starnet.cd The mining company of Bakwanga (MIBA) has worked Created in 1966 from Union Minière du Haut-Katanga
the rich diamantiferous layers in the area of Kasaï in the
(UMHK), Gécamines was a stalwart of the Congo during
DRC for nearly 70 years. MIBA is a joint company which
colonization and the second republic. In 1989 it pro-
is owned 80% by the Congolese state and 20% by the
duced 85% of the export earnings, against 60% in 1960,
Belgian Company Sibeka.
and contributes up to 42% of public revenues. Gécamines trades in copper, cobalt and zinc plus ura-
The principal mission of the company is the exploration
nium and other minerals. During a normal year, copper
of the mining layers as well as studies of and execution
alone accounts for 50% of export earnings. Gécamines is
of all work of mining exploitation. MIBA also takes care
a public company which owns mining exploitations in
of obtaining, purchasing, transfer and leasing of the
Kolwezi, Likasi and Lubumbashi, as well as mining opera-
mines and mining concessions in the DRC. The society is
tions covering nearly 18,900km2 for copper and asso-
in charge of the purchase, sale and trade of all mining
ciated metals, and nearly 14,000km2 for tin and other
wealth, and the establishment of all factories for extrac-
metals, such as coltan.
tion, treatment and purification of ores, working of metals and exploitation of their derivatives.
Gécamines has a geological and mining inheritance, taken together with all its partnerships, containing
Currently, the exploitation is gathered in a mining
reserves estimated at 56,000,000 tonnes of copper,
polygon close to the town of Mbuji-Mayi. The exploita-
4,000,000 of tonnes of cobalt, 6,400,000 tonnes of zinc
tion is done in primary (kimberlitic) and secondary (allu-
and 3,400 tonnes of germanium.
vial) layers. The level of production in 2003 was
171
MINING & OIL
eBizguides DRC
6,600,000 carats per annum. This level will rise quickly in
duced on 17th July. Ramp up to design production com-
the current five-year plan (2003–2007) to reach an
menced in August, and full production of 70,000tpm has
output of 9,000,000 carats in 2006. The principal charac-
been achieved. The capital cost of the concentrator
teristics of this five-year plan are the exploitation of the
erected, tailings dam construction and main power
beds of rivers and the transfer of operations towards
infrastructure has amounted to US $30 million.
intensive exploitation of the kimberlitic layers following the exhaustion of the detrital reserves.
Phase II of the Ruashi project entails mining the open-pit ore bodies at an envisaged rate of 120,000tpm, to give
The production is mainly made up of industrial diamonds,
approximately 45,000 tonnes of copper and 3,500
those for jewellery accounting for only 5% to 6%. The
tonnes of cobalt per annum in both cathode and cobalt
annual sales figure is around US $90 million.
carbonate forms. The bankable feasibility study for Phase
RUASHI MINING PROJECT
appointed by Standard Bank to review the feasibility
Charles Denby Stockton Needham
project finance discussions with Standard Bank are nea-
Chief Executive
ring completion. Metorex have funded Phase II develop-
109 av. Songololo Lubumbashi
ment in order to secure long-lead items and to com-
Tel: +243-81-9782744
mence civil works ahead of project finance approval.
II was completed in October 2006. RSG Consultants were
study. This review was completed in December 2006, and
Email: ruashiadmin@gmail.com Website: www.ruashi.com
At
the
commencement
of
its
activities
outside
Lubumbashi, Ruashi Mining implemented a social proRuashi is a long-term, phased copper and cobalt produ-
gramme within the area around the mine, which also
cing project, situated in the Katanga province of the
incorporated the use of some of its infrastructure. Many of
Democratic Republic of the Congo, which produces a
these activities are a ‘work in progress’, such as spreading
copper/cobalt
access to Ruashi Mining’s power and water supply infras-
concentrate
treated
at
the
Sable
Processing Facility in Zambia. This project was created in
tructure. Ruashi Mining also provides ongoing social input
2000 and is now managed by Metorex Limited, which is
such as screening the World Cup Soccer series on a big
owned 80% by Ruashi Holding, 15% by Gécamines, and
screen inside the Ruashi village and sponsoring local soccer
5% by the DRC government.
tournaments for the children living in Ruashi village.
The Ruashi project comprises Phase I, mining and treat-
SOCIÉTÉ POUR LE TRAITEMENT DU TERRIL DE LUBUMBASHI (GTL-STL)
ment of the Ruashi/Etoile stockpiles, and Phase II, mining of the Ruashi open-pit ore bodies. Additionally, Ruashi Mining has entered into an agreement with Gécamines
Route de Kipushi 4,
covering three permit areas, Musonoi, Sokoroshe 1 and
B.P. 1531, Lubumbashi
Sokoroshe 2, where drilling and interpretation continues.
Tel: +243-97-032815 Fax: +243-2344195
The concentrator plant established to treat the stockpiles
Email: stl-st@lub.jobantech.cd
during Phase I has a capacity of 70,000 tonnes per month. The critical mechanical and electrical equipment
GTL has its origins in the partnership concluded in June
for commissioning of the plant was procured from
1997 between Gécamines, the American company OMG
O’okiep Copper Company in Northern Cape, South
and Group Forrest. The negotiations began in 1994. GTL
Africa. The first ore was fed into the plant on 30th June
is established in Jersey. The shareholders of GTL are dis-
2006, followed by wet-commissioning in the second
tributed as follows: 20% Gécamines, 55% OMG and
week of July. The first flotation concentrate was pro-
25% Group Forrest.
176
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w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
GTL’s objectives include the treatment of a part of the
cobalt and 1,887 tonnes of copper in 2003, 2,893 tonnes
spoil heap of Lubumbashi. The spoil heap is the result of
of cobalt and 1,738 tonnes of copper in 2004, and 2,258
mining by the Mining Union of Haut-Katanga (UMHK)
tonnes of cobalt and 1,354 tonnes of copper in 2005.
and Gécamines from 1924 to 1992: a mountain of spoils named the ‘Big Hill’ of Lubumbashi.
In 2006 the factory reached a record production of 5,024 tonnes of cobalt, 3,001 tonnes of copper and 20,947
The partnership aims to treat by hydrometallurgy a part
tonnes of zinc. As an owner of the spoil heap, Gécamines
of the spoil heap of Lubumbashi. Started at the end of
sells the slag following a formula which develops cobalt
2000 and entirely financed by the private partners of the
and copper according to the courses of these metals.
project, the factory can reach an annual production of
Once treated, the slag becomes again the property of
more than 4,000 tonnes of cobalt, 2,500 tonnes of
Gécamines. In addition to this advantage, Gécamines
copper and 15,000 tonnes of zinc oxide with 70% zinc.
profits from 20% of the dividends from the sale of pro-
For the exploitation of the spoil heap, GTL created STL, a
duced white alloy and recovers the 15,000 tonnes of zinc
Congolese Sprl. STL is charged with ensuring the treat-
oxide with an average content of 70%.
ment of the slag and the whole of the technical activities involved. The production began in February 2001. Final
The factory has 390 employees. A third of them are
production during these first years was 1,825 tonnes of
former agents of Gécamines, who until the launching of
cobalt and 1,152 tonnes copper, 1,932 tonnes of cobalt
the factory were in quasi layoff. In addition to the activity
and 1,290 tonnes of copper in 2002, 3,061 tonnes of
which employment generates, STL has developed social
Ruashi's mine contains large amounts of malachite and cobalt
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
projects. STL ensures in particular the granting of education allowances for the children of its employees and the medical expenses for employees and their families. In addition, several projects have been carried out such as the support for a centre for disabled children, the installation of a cemetery, the manufacture of equipment for the Town Hall for mowing grass, the liming of a road section, the cleaning of accesses and the construction of a church in an underprivileged district. STL offers assistance to its workers for the purchase of household items, support for football, sports and volleyball teams of the company, and ensures financial support for the schools. STL also offers training courses for students of the University of Lubumbashi (UNILU).
TENKE FUNGURUME MINING Suite 2101 - 885 W. Georgia Street Vancouver, BC Canada V6C 3E8 Email: tenke@namdo.com
Activity: Mining
All of these minerals can be found in one common mining concession
Tenke Mining Corp. is a Canadian mineral exploration
The feasibility study is based on standard African copper
and development company. The company Federal
belt process technology with optimization from Phelps
Corporation trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange under
Dodge as one of the world leaders in solution extraction
the symbol TNK. The project of the company in the DRC
and electrowinning operations. Overall metal recoveries
is the copper/cobalt deposit. The Tenke Fungurume
are expected to be 95% for copper and 83% for cobalt
copper/cobalt deposits are considered the world’s largest
metal. Mill facilities are expected to process approxima-
and richest undeveloped deposits, with measured, indi-
tely 7,000tpd of ore.
cated and inferred resources in excess of 540 million tonnes of 3.5% copper and 0.27% cobalt.
As the project has progressed over the last year, social development programmes have been expanded with the
Technical information on the project is extensive as there
start of construction for new schools, road maintenance
has been a considerable amount of work done on Tenke
and an agricultural programme within the Tenke
Fungurume in several stages over time. Prior to TMC’s
Fungurume concessions. Once construction begins on
involvement there had been approximately 176,000m of
the project, long-term social development programmes
drilling, 12km of underground workings and 125km of
will be implemented, funded by the project both through
surface trenches and pits carried out on the property by
capital investment and an ongoing Social Development
others. TMC began work on the project in late 1996.
Fund to facilitate improved water supply for villagers, road improvements, expanded education facilities, new
The feasibility study has been completed for the first phase
medical facilities, employee housing, skill training pro-
of production at the Tenke Fungurume copper/cobalt pro-
grammes, advancement of local small business, and to
ject in Katanga Province. The target for the first copper
significantly increase local agricultural capacity.
cathode production is the second half of 2008.
179
MINING & OIL
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180
P U B L I C S E RV I C E S
A healthy man needs no doctor / Ozali kobela te, okoluka monganga pona nini Congolese saying 181
P U B L I C S E RV I C E S
eBizguides DRC
PUBLIC SERVICES
country in 2004 resulted in as many as 98% of the children being immunized. In 2004, the general government
The reconstruction needs of the DRC are huge.
expenditure on health as a percentage of total expendi-
International organizations have begun work on longer
ture was 28.1% whereas the private expenditure on
term plans to help the government to rebuild DRC’s
health as a percentage of total expenditure on health
public services and infrastructure. Britain and the US are
was 71.9%. We can see from these figures that most
also working with other partners to fund construction,
people access private health care.
health and education projects that will bring more immediate benefits to communities in the DRC.
PUBLIC EDUCATION
PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE
The existing public education system in DRC is appalling and the State still largely relies on private initiatives to pro-
The public health service leaves much to be desired in the
vide education to the majority of Congolese. Although
DRC. Life expectancy for men and women is only 46 and
education was officially nationalized after independence,
51 years, respectively. An emphasis needs to be placed
the Catholic Church still represents around 80% of pri-
on malaria treatment and prevention, routine vaccina-
mary and 60% of secondary education facilities in the
tions, HIV/AIDS prevention and care, and improving
country. According to last available data, school enrolment
health care provider performance and drug supply
rates reached only 35% in 1999 and UNESCO estimates
systems. International organizations are coming to the
that, nowadays, net primary school enrolment for children
DRC to help. Overall immunization levels in USAID-
between 6 and 11 years of age is of 51% while First grade
assisted health zones are above national levels. For
enrolment rate is estimated at 17%.
example, a polio campaign organized in part of the Back to school means new uniforms!
182
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
eBizguides DRC Women´s education is far behind men’s in the DRC. Only
“We hope that the international community can help
56% of women in the DRC know how to read. The
the medical centre to improve the level of medical care
government is trying to put into place some plans to
for Congolese people through donations and support to
improve access to and quality of basic education, espe-
private clinics.”
cially for girls, through innovative teacher training, distri-
Dr Kabongo, Doctor Director
bution and proper use of educational materials, and encouraging community participation in education. The
CMK (CENTRE MÉDICAL DE KINSHASA)
US agency USAID is training teachers via radio- and internet-based programes. Radio programes also broad-
Dr Paul Daoust
cast messages on the importance of girls’ education to
Doctor Director
local communities. Scholarships to vulnerable girls com-
av. Commerce et Bas-Congo, Kinshasa/Gombe
plement these activities. Over 11,000 primary school girls
Tel: +243-89-8950300
received scholarships for the 2003/2004 school year.
Email: cmkdg@ic.cd
MAIN COMPANIES
Formerly the medical centre of Sabena in Zaire, the Centre Médical de Kinshasa (CMK), a cooperative com-
CENTRE MÉDICAL INTERNATIONAL
pany, was created in 1969. CMK is a clinic for private firms, which is also open to other Congolese companies
Dr Kabongo
and private clients.
Doctor Director av. Mbuji-Mayi 81, Kinshasa/Gombe
After the departure of the Belgian, French, German and
Tel: +243-89-8910415 / 81-3872454 / 89-8989599
Danish medical cooperation, following the events of 1991,
Email: jimikabongo@hotmail.com
there was no longer a reassuring and reliable medical structure in Kinshasa of European standard for medical
Activity: Medical care
Children like this one count on investment in local hospitals
Date of Creation: 1997 Capital: US $120,000 Employees: 25
The Centre Médical International (CMI) is the continuation of the Zaïre American Clinic created in 1997 by Dr Jimi Kabongo, Mr Mbila Constant and Mr Jan de Vries. The medical centre offers a wide range of services primarily in general and specialized consultation. CMI has its own laboratory, and encompasses services in ultrasound, electrocardiograms, radiology, dentistry and hospitalization. CMI is reliable, having a strong history in medical care to the embassies, and specializes in family and workbased medicine.
In the near future, CMI would like to increase the hospital capacity by creating private rooms. Dr Jimi Kabongo and his assistants also frequently participate in training workshops for people suffering from HIV in Cameroun (Douala) and Sénegal (Dakar).
183
P U B L I C S E RV I C E S
eBizguides DRC
and surgical emergencies. The expatriate communities
$29 million, and was mostly financed by Dikembe
now rely on CMK. Because of the gap in emergency
Mutombo, who gave US $15 million. The construction,
medical provision, the principal companies in Kinshasa are
which started in 2004, was finished in 2006 and the
organized to create the Centre Privé d’Urgence (CPU),
centre opened its doors on 17th July 2007. Dikembe
which is based on the ground floor of CMK.
Mutombo is Congolese and a famous MBA basketball player. The hospital is named in memory of his mother,
The Medical Centre of Kinshasa is now composed of
Biamba Marie Mutombo, who died in 1998.
three entities: CMK Beach Ngobila (consultation centre), the hospital complex (CH) and the Centre Privé
Phase 1 of the new hospital will include the following ser-
d’Urgence (CPU). It is the only centre for intensive care in
vices: paediatrics, surgery, internal medicine, emergency
the DRC, and can take good care of clients thanks to
room, intensive care, and ambulance services. These ser-
modern equipment of international standards. Reception
vices will be supported by radiology, laboratory and other
conditions and the medical equipment are very high qua-
ancillary services and will open in phases, starting with
lity. A modern operating theatre suite with recovery room
100 beds, to increase to 150 beds during the first six
and a maternity room complete the hospital buildings.
months and with the expectation to ramp up to full capa-
CMK ensures complementary services with its emergency
city (300 beds) after 18 to 24 months. The new hospital
treatment, intensive care, resuscitation, operating theatre
will incorporate a research centre in the near future, but
suite, and maternity unit.
the emphasis now is on opening Phase 1.
CMK has 15 in-house doctors, all tropical specialists,
A special focus is placed on maternal and child health,
among whom are an endocrinologist, a cardiologist, a
where the burden of illness and death is particularly heavy,
hematologist, a nephrologist, a paediatrician, 56 nurses
and will also address emerging diseases such as diabetes,
and 140 other employees. In addition, 22 doctors repre-
stroke and cancer and infectious diseases, especially
senting all the medical specialities work freelance with
HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis. Ambulance care ser-
CMK, which allows the establishment to treat all types of
vices will support and complement the in-patient services.
pathology. A ‘CMK spirit’ animates all the employees of the company. They are motivated, proud of their place
The Dikembe Mutombo Foundation will sponsor
within CMK and keen to share its work with others.
Congolese public health students to study in the US to enhance their medical training. Training will focus on
BIAMBA MARIE MUTOMBO HOSPITAL
short-term programmes in the fields of laboratory techniques, quality control, epidemiology, rural health, hos-
Ms. Susan Johnson,
pital/pharmacology administration and management. The
Executive Director
programme beneficiaries are expected to become the
Dikembe Mutombo Foundation, Inc
nucleus for developing the new hospital and rebuilding
Tel: +1-404-262-2109
the deteriorated health services system in the capital city.
Toolfree Tel: +1-866-289-2108
SHALINA
Email: Mutombo@dmf.org Website: www.dmf.org
Shiraz Virji Biamba Marie Mutombo Hospital and Research Center is
Managing Director
located in the commune of Masina, on the way to the air-
11 av. de l’Action, Kinshasa/ Gombe
port, and is one of the most densely populated and impo-
Tel: +243-99-8353288
verished quadrants of the capital city of Kinshasa.
Email: shiraz@shalina.com
Population estimates for the area vary from 1.5 to 3
Website: www.shalinalabs.com
million inhabitants. The construction cost is around US
184
P U B L I C S E RV I C E S
eBizguides DRC
Shalina is a leading worldwide health and personal care
The company’s efforts were boosted after receiving the
company whose principal business is the supply of phar-
status of Government Recognized Export House from the
maceuticals, beauty care, personal care products, nutri-
Director General of Foreign Trade of India in 1985. In
tional supplements, medical devices and chemicals.
addition, Shalina has been honoured with the following
Shalina successfully develops and markets innovative pro-
• Certificate of Merit from Chemexcil in 1994–95
ducts that improve, enhance and extend human life. The
• Export Award for Excellent Performance from
company prides itself on delivering total quality products
Chemexcil in 1995–96
prestigious awards:
at an affordable price.
• National Export Award for Outstanding Performance from the government of India, Ministry of Commerce and
Shalina’s products are well established and accepted by
Industry in 1998-99
medical professionals and end users alike in the African
• Trishul Award for Best Performance from Chemexcil in
continent. Forms include capsules, tablets, injections, vita-
1998–99
mins, oral liquids, topical and ophthalmic preparations.
Today, under the dynamic and outstanding leadership of
These cover a number of therapeutic categories such as
Mr Shiraz Virji, Managing Director, it is one of the fastest-
analgesics, antipyretics, anti-inflammatories, antacids,
growing pharmaceutical companies in India.
antirheumatics, antihistamines, expectorants, diuretics, cardiac and vascular disorders, vitamins, and nutritional
None of this tremendous growth would have been pos-
supplements.
sible without the immense contribution of its dedicated
Its leading branded products include Ampi, Diproson,
strongly believes in the values of fair treatment, ethical
Hemoforce, Tonic Shalina, Sulfatrim, Shalcip, Betasol,
practices, standards of excellence, safety and reliability
Wormex, Super Apeti, Ibucap, Zanzicap, Amidol,
and total quality management.
employees. As individuals and as a company, Shalina
Malarquine, Shalvit, Shaltoux and Zamoxyl. This is further strengthened by a wide range of generic drug formulations. Research happens in-house for lack of available cheap outsourcing
186
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
eBizguides DRC
UNIVERSITÉ DE KINSHASA Lututala Mumpasi Rector B.P. 190 Kinshasa 11 Tel: +243-1221361 ext. 320 Email: centreinfo@ic.cd Website: www.unikin.cd
The Université de Kinshasa (Unikin/Kinshasa University) is a French-speaking university based in the town of Kinshasa. Initially established by the Catholic University of Louvain in 1951 at the time of the Belgian Congo under the name of Université Lovanium, it took the name of University of Kinshasa after having broken with the Catholic Church to become a public-owned establishment of university education in 1981. The university is made up of the 10 following faculties: law, social sciences, economic and management sciences, social political and administrative sciences, science, pharmacy, medicine, psychology and education science, agronomy and a polytechnic.
The University of Kinshasa is, according to observers, the
Skeletons of Universities of yore, left behind for bigger campuses!
most prestigious of the universities of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It also constitutes a pole of research
Developing and modernizing its academic infrastructure
and a large supplier of professors to the higher education
to receive more foreign students is a major objective of
establishments of the DRC. The teaching staff includes
the University of Kinshasa.
500 professor doctors, a scientific body including 1,000 chiefs of work and assistants.
UNIVERSITÉ DE LUBUMBASHI
More than 23,000 students study at the university, with
Pr Kaumba Lufunda
a majority in first cycle. Research is not up to interna-
Rector
tional standards, though there are some quality scientific
B.P. 1825 Lubumbashi, Katanga
publications. However, the Université de Kinshasa has
Tel: +243-2348202
some research capacity. The university has a central
Fax: +1-801-3401326
library, which needs recent books. The central library is
Website: www.unilu.ac.cd
open to everyone and has the largest collection of books in the DRC. The university does not guarantee housing to
The Université de Lubumbashi (Unilu/Lubumbashi
its 23,000 students, but soon the government will launch
University) is a public university based in the town of
a campaign of rehabilitation and construction of the resi-
Lubumbashi. Created in 1955, the university was called
dence halls and the creation of a body which will be in
successively: Université officielle du Congo et du
charge of the management of these residence halls and
Rwanda-Urundi,
the scholarships.
Université officielle du Congo, Université nationale du
Université
d’État
d’Élisabethville,
Congo/Campus de Lubumbashi, Université nationale du
187
Students are very dedicated
ZaĂŻre/Campus de Lubumbashi and finally UniversitĂŠ de
Another major strengh of the university is its hospitality
Lubumbashi. The university is located at Katanga, in the
and the spirit of its students and leaders. Its establis-
south of the country, at the start of the majestic Congo
hment in Katanga, in the heart of Africa, makes it a uni-
River.
versity open to the young people of Africa, with students from Angola, Brazzaville, Nigeria and especially Burundi
Composed of 10 faculties, 2 higher schools and 1 higher
and Rwanda. This excellent university is open to any
institute, it imparts a rich and varied knowledge without
citizen of the world. Unilu awaits hosts and tourists, whe-
sacrificing traditional values. Its 21,000 students embody
rever they are from. Visit the University and it will attract
an ideal organization and solidarity.
you.
Although decayed, its infrastructure, once rehabilitated, will
ZENUFA LABORATORIES SPRL
enhance the university community. It has recommenced partnerships with other universities and institutions of the
Naren Visani
country and especially those in foreign countries.
MD and CEO 3 av. des Entrepots, B.P. 15110, Kingbabwa, Kinshasa
188
Tel: +243-81-8845671 / 99-9936225
The principal aim of Zenufa Laboratories is to meet the
Email: satnam@zenufa.com
drug requirements of the population across the entire
Website: www.zenufa.com
territory by putting on the market drugs that meet high standards of quality at an accessible price. As an example
In July 1998 Zenufa Laboratories Sprl started the produc-
of product quality, the International Committee of
tion of pharmaceutical drugs in the DRC. In spite of the
Pharmacists Without Borders qualified Zenufa as the drug
years of war that followed, considerable efforts were
supplier for the buying and distribution units of drugs in
deployed to maintain employment and production.
the DRC financed by the European Union. To guarantee
The company supplies to the market more than 120 pro-
network throughout the country (Kinshasa, Kisangani,
ducts to meet the direct needs of the population. The
Lubumbashi, Kikwit, Bukavu), while respecting good
range of Zenufa products includes antibiotics, antimala-
practices of distribution.
the drugs’ accessibility, Zenufa developed a distribution
rials, analgesics and antipyretics, vitamins, cough mixtures as well antibiotics and antihelminthics.
Currently Zenufa is setting up an extension programme for its drug distribution to Congo, Angola and Cameroon. Zenufa Laboratories is a pride of Congo.
189
P U B L I C S E RV I C E S
eBizguides DRC
190
PUBLIC WORKS
One arm rubs the other (one finger alone does not wash your face) Loboko moko esungaka mosusu Congolese saying 191
PUBLIC WORKS
eBizguides DRC
OVERVIEW
ring the massive boost from internationally funded reconstruction projects, construction and public works’
The transport network in DRC is made up of 16,238 kilo-
share of recorded GDP has risen steadily from 4.2 percent
meters of navigable waterways, 5,033 kilometres of rail-
in 2000 to 7.1 percent in 2006.
ways, dating for the most part from the colonial era, 145,000 kilometers of national and regional roads and
ROADS
secondary rural roads, 7,400 kilometers of urban thoroughfares, and 270 aerodromes throughout the
Developing agriculture and small industry in rural DRC,
country, including five international airports (in Kinshasa,
which is crucial for poverty reduction, depends heavily on reopening rural roads. In this context the sector has
Lubumbashi, Kasangani, Goma, and Gbadolite).
benefited from massive donor support. Nonetheless, this transport system no longer provides the economic and social sectors with infrastructures and ser-
The World Bank for instance is implementing a major
vices conducive to trade or which can improve the mobi-
project of over US$50m for the “High-Priority Roads
lity of persons and goods and thereby imposes itself as a
Reopening and Maintenance”, which development
priority investment area for the government.
objective is to re-establish lasting access between provincial capitals and districts. The latter should re-open about
According to the government’s PRSP (Poverty Reduction
1,800 kilometers of the high-priority road network and
Strategy Paper) growth in the budgetary expenditure on
ensure their maintenance thereafter. The land connec-
infrastructure increased its share from 11.2 percent in
tion between the provinces of Sud-Kivu and Katanga,
2006 to 15.8 percent in 2007 and is forecasted to reach
and within the Province Orientale should be reesta-
16.3 percent in 2008. Capital expenditure in this sector
blished. This road network will serve the highest popu-
will expand more rapidly than current expenditure, owing
lated areas and connect to a network of about 7,000 km
to the needs for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of
of high-priority roads already funded by various donors.
dilapidated infrastructure. In this context, and conside-
The roads targeted are Kisangani-Buta-Bondo-Bunduki
Place de la Paix, Lubumbashi
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eBizguides DRC (620 km) crossing Orientale Province and connecting to
days it has been largely reduced due to both the war and
Equateur Province; and Uvira-Kasomeno (1,180 km) cros-
lack of investment in maintenance. It is now concen-
sing the Sud Kivu and Katanga provinces.
trated in Katanga, due to the importance of mineral export via neighbouring countries Zambia and South
China is also a major player in the sector, and recently
Africa. The link between Ilebo in West Kasai and
earmarked US$3bn of a US$5bn loan for transport deve-
Lubumbashi, and from there to the port of Durban, is the
lopment during 2007. Within the latter, a road project
main railway line in the country. The port of Matadi is
linking Kisangani in Orientale province with Kasumbalesa
also linked by rail to Kinshasa, but as most of the net-
in Southern Katanga, a major frontier post with Zambia,
work, the service remains slow and unreliable despite the
will be implemented.
World Bank and EU investment for its rehabiliation.
Belgium and the DFID (British development cooperation)
Part of the US5bn transportation rehabilitation Chinese
are also intervening heavily with several projects.
loan will be used to rehabilitate the railway connections,
Rehabilitation of major roads should facilitate trade, pro-
such as the line from Kolweizi in Katanga to Diolo on the
jects include: reparation of 1,900 km of roads in Bas-
border with Angola, linking the province with the
Congo, in the Cataractes and Bas-Fleuve districts; 721 km
Benguela railway running down the Angolan coast,
of roads in Kasai Oriental, to open up the Kabinda/Lubao
which restoration is also expected by 2010.
region, the Ngandajika region and the city of Mbuji-Mayi; 131 km of roads between Mbuji-Mayi and Lusambo; 125
HOUSING
km of roads in Bandundu and 110 km in Bas-Congo, opening up of the districts of Kabinda, Lubao, Ngandanjika,
The massive exodus to the capital city, Kinshasa, that
Tshilenge and Katanda to allow agricultural products to be
started after independence has only been increasing
transported to cities like Mbuji-Mayi and Kabinda; repai-
throughout the years and the successive wars the country
ring of rural roads in Kasai Oriental (Sankuru), Maniema
has experienced. Increasing fourfold the population of
and Haut-Katanga and maintaining roads in Bas-Congo,
Kinshasa, and making it one of the most populated cities
Bandundu (Kwilu) and Kasai Oriental as well as 1,571 km
in Africa, the exodus created an important housing pro-
of roads in Kwilu and Bandundu Province, with a view to
blem that is far from being solved. Shantytowns make
transporting agricultural produce towards the Kasai and
most of the urban area of Kinshasa at the outskirts of the
Kwilu rivers. All those projects not only fuel growth in the
capital. Unable to control the spread of unauthorized and
country but also present major business opportunities on
generally substandard construction or to come up with adequate alternatives, the government tolerated what it
the medium-long term.
could not prevent. Recognizing the vulnerability of earth roads to rainfalls and heavy trucks even if limited in number, an extensive
Nowadays under the responsibility of the National
maintenance program has also been put together,
Housing Office only a tiny fraction of the country's mas-
funded by a newly created Road Maintenance Fund.
sive housing needs is covered. At last estimate, more
Main projects also include a program to develop the
than half of housing units were traditional one-room
currently weak road construction industry and raise it to
adobe, straw, or mud structures, and less than half were
the challenge of rebuilding and maintaining tens of thou-
modern houses of durable or semi-durable material con-
sands of kilometers of roads scattered over DR of Congo.
taining one or more rooms. In this context and given the importance of proper housing also as a collateral for
RAILWAY
small businesses, this sector should present major opportunities during the upcoming years.
While in post-independence DRC an extensive railway system was functioning throughout the country, nowa-
193
PUBLIC WORKS
eBizguides DRC
MAIN COMPANIES
the DRC. It hopes to continue growing alongside it and achieve quality products working with the local people to
GROUP CHANIMETAL
bring recognition to the DRC.
Bernard Andri
CILU (LUKALA CEMENT COMPANY)
Director Av. de la Montagne, Kinshasa
Building du 30 juin, bld du 30 juin,
Tel: +243-81-5135733
B.P. 7598, Kinshasa 1
Fax: +32-2-6609020
Tel: +243-88 45906
Email: Chanimetaldg@ic.cd Website: www.chanic.com
CILU was founded on 5th February 1920 under the name
Date of Creation: 1928
tonnes of cement at that time. In 1971 it was renamed
Chanimetal Group is a subsidiary of Chanic, a Belgian
entered CIZA as a shareholder, after having repurchased
of Cement Company of Congo. It produced 18,000
Cement Company of Zaire (CIZA). In 1992 Group Forrest
company founded in 1928. Chanic grew rapidly, beco-
the cement manufacturer group which held participa-
ming an industrial group active first in Central Africa
tions in CIZA, Cimenkat and Interlacs. The production of
before expanding into West Africa. In addition to its own
cement within CIZA was 80,000 tonnes per annum at
industrial production, the group diversified by distribu-
this time. In 1995 Group Forrest reassumed management
ting well-known brands, which were linked to the indus-
of the cement factory and gradually increased its produc-
trial centre.
tion to reach 450,000 tonnes of cement in 2007. Group
The Chanimetal Group has a large industrial infrastruc-
which took the name of CILU in 1997.
Forrest also became the principal shareholder of CIZA,
ture, ideally situated in Kinshasa, Lubumbashi and Kolwezi. In Kinshasa alone, Chanimetal’s total infrastruc-
CILU carries on its activities within the framework of the
ture covers an area of some 20 hectares along the Congo
production of cement but also produces other derived
River and in the industrial zone of Limete.
products.
Today, Chanimetal is organized around two divisions. It
CILU has plants in Lukala, in Bas-Congo, 180km south-
shares production infrastructure according to business
west of Kinshasa. Its plants enable the company to pro-
area:
duce mainly Portland cement CEMII 32.5, but also highstrength Portland cement CEMI and CEMII 42.5, quick-
• Shipbuilding: the shipyard and all the services related to
setting cement, and cement with low standard heat of
shipbuilding (mechanics, sheet metal and metal
hydration ASTM II. In parallel with the traditional produc-
workshop); Assorted manufacturing: Chanimetal Group’s
tion of cement, CILU also produces the calcareous
new manufacturing activities include the output of the
powder useful for agriculture and the packing out of
foundry’s workshops and ploughing tools.
glass, Calcilu intended for the manufacture of coatings
• Industrial accounts for prestigious brands such as
and paintings, and crushed and hardcore limestones for
Liebherr, Cat Lift Trucks, Schindler, Motorola and SDMO;
construction. Concurrent to its basic industrial activity,
Chanitec: Chanitec’s activities include the supply, insta-
CILU has developed important farming activities: an
llation and maintenance of parts for special equipment
industrial farm (soya, corn, vegetables) and livestock bre-
such as lifts and air conditioning systems.
eding (chickens, pigs and rabbits); an industrial bakery; a
The oldest industrial group in the country, Chanimetal is
lewheat flour, whose high nutritional value contributes to
proud to be an integral part of the image and history of
the fight against kwashiorkor.
factory producing pastes containing soya, corn and who-
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eBizguides DRC CILU’s cement output is about 42,000 tonnes per
CIMENTERIE NATIONALE (CINAT)
annum. At present, it employs nearly 700 people, divided between the site of production and the administrative
Jean Pierre Okuka Lupanu
centre in Kinshasa.
CEO 5406, 12è, rue Limete Quartier Industriel,
CILU intends to increase its output to 600,000 tonnes
B.P. 12198, Kinshasa 1
during the next years. Taking into account the develop-
Tel: +243-98276007
ment of the market, other investments will enable the
Fax: +243-813013555
company to exceed, in the long term, an output of 1
Email: cinatkimpese@yahoo.fr
million tonnes per annum. This development will result in a significant increase in the number of people employed
Created in 1970, the National Cement factory (CINAT) is
by CILU.
a mixed company owned 92% by the Congolese state, 7% by the Family Holding Foundation and 1% by Peter Wulf. The object of the company is the manufacture and sale of cement and building materials. The company
Infrastructure is of prime importance for this developing nation
PUBLIC WORKS
eBizguides DRC
employs 468 agents, 87 based in the headquarters in
GENERAL CONSTRUCT
Kinshasa and 381 in the manufacturing plant in Kimpese. This factory includes a huge concession of 588 hectares
Jean Louis Bodarwe
in which there are residential areas, a health centre and
Administrator Manager
sports grounds.
7 rue Industrielle 20, Limete, Kinshasa Tel: +243-81 8800497
To produce cement, CINAT uses clay, limestone and
Email: Christine Bodarwe – generalconstruct@ic.cd
gypsum. The success of the company comes from its
Website: www.generalconstruct.cd
impeccable packing into four folds, because it is easier to transport. It is also the best manufacturer of bricks, for
Date of Creation: 1998
every type of construction. The bricks are especially
Capital: US $1,200,000
useful for construction on wet or marshy ground and
Turnover: US $4,800,000
show a strong resistance for rough-casting, pavement
Employees: 800
and concrete work. General Construct Sprl was created in 1989, establishing CINAT has the advantage of having a highly qualified
its headquarters in Kinshasa. It specializes in the cons-
personnel and is well equipped thanks to its very
truction of buildings, houses, villas, apartments, offices,
powerful machines and an ultramodern laboratory.
stores, warehouses, car parks and swimming pools,
CINAT cement was recognized as the best in Africa being
amongst others. It also offers the services of rehabilita-
awarded the ‘Africa Award’ gold medal in 1988.
tion and finishing of previous constructions.
Currently it is indisputably the first choice of Chinese Its creator and manager, Mr Jean-Louis Bodarwé, has more
manufacturers in the DRC.
than 20 years of rich experience in the field, which allows High-value works and buildings in the DRC have been
him to respond to various demands. General Construct’s
contructed with CINAT cement, such as the Palais du
activities are adapted and evolve depending on the eco-
Peuple of Kinshasa (seat of the transitional Parliament),
nomic situation. In collaboration with more than 100 spe-
the bridge Oekb of Matadie, and the Stade des Martyrs
cialists in different fields, it can advise you, manage and
de la Pentecost (stadium in Kinshasa).
build your projects, from design to realization. Reconstructing is a tough job. Bring in the big rigs!
196
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
eBizguides DRC The company is 100% autonomous and has already
• Construction of the transit centre for the war-wounded
carried out major projects, such as the construction of 6
at the CETA camp in Kinshasa;
buildings, 45 offices, stores, etc.
• Rehabilitation and equipping of the Budget Minister’s office in Kinshasa;
Its main priority is business connections, which are built
• Rehabilitation of 40 villas for the officers and warrant
on respect and mutual confidence. It seeks the creation
officers at Lieutenant-Colonel Kokolo military camp, with
of mutually beneficial partnerships with customers and
146 other villas to be completed.
strategic alliances with subcontractors and suppliers who
“We would be happy to talk together
share the same requirements of quality and production,
about your future projects.”
of which it remains the principal coordinator.
Mike Kasenga “We want you to be completely satisfied, so we will bring all our experience and knowledge for all your pro-
MOBIMETAL SPRL
jects, large or small.” Jean Louis Bodarwe, Administrator Manager
Tom Kiwakana Director
GROUPE MIKE PROMOTION – STEVER CONSTRUCT
256–257, 2è rue Limete Industriel Tel: +243-999007967 Fax: +243-8843475
Mike Kasenga
Email: dgmobimetal@micronet.cd
4625 av. des Forces Armées, Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-12-457346
Date of Creation: 1956
Email: mikekasenga@yahoo.fr
Capital: €230,000
The Group Mike Promotion Sprl is a Congolese company
Employees: 150
Turnover: €3,600,000 created in January 1991 in Kinshasa by Mr Mike Kasenga, in partnership with his wife, Mrs Kapinga Mbiye. The
Created in 1956, Mobimetal specializes in metal works.
activities of the Group are currently centred on four bran-
Its main products are industrial hangars, metal frames,
ches: construction and civil engineering, heavy vehicles
warehouses, bridges, barges, pylons, tanks and metal fit-
and machine hire, sale and hire of agricultural machinery
tings. It also produces prefabricated factories for all
(tractors), and general trade.
industries.
Its operational subsidiary companies are GMP Renting car
Mobimetal is set apart from the competition thanks to its
hire, in charge of the hire of vehicles, and Degel for the
highly qualified employees, large investments and the
management of heavy machines. The general direction is
speed and quality of its services. Mobimetal is also a dis-
the body of management and coordination of the
tributor for several famous brands such as SKF, LVD,
group’s activities. It has at its head the General Managing
Olma and Biehler.
Director, who is assisted by the General Manager in charge of the current business management. Mike
To increase its potential, the company is now looking for
Promotion has already completed several major works
partners in Europe such as manufacturers of machine
such as:
tools for its metal work, suppliers of aluminium and alu-
• Rehabilitation of the office of the Vice-President of the
minium-zinc, and second-hand metal suppliers for the
Republic in charge of the Rebuilding and Development
chemical, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries.
Commission;
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TOURISM
Salt tastes good in the mouth, but gives nothing to the heart (worldy pleasures don't bring you joy) Bisengo ya mokili ezali na suka te Congolese saying
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w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
OVERVIEW
Its surface area covers 7,600 sq. km. It is studded with a
The DRC is endowed with a huge tourism potential but
1,200m and 1,700m. It is famous for the Lofoi Falls, and
chain of high plateaus and savannah hills of between
this is presently untapped despite the existence of the
one of the rivers is a tributary of the Lufira. These falls are
Tourism Ministry, the Office National du Tourisme
the highest in Africa and the second-highest in the world
(National Office of Tourism) and Fonds de Promotion du
at 384m with a continuous stream of 347m.
Tourisme (the Promotion Funds for Tourism), which have responsibility to boost the sector through adequate poli-
In this park are animal species such as: Burchell’s zebra
cies and projects.
(Equus burchelli), roan antelope (Hippotragus equinus), sable antelope (Hippotragus niger), greater kudu
Among the main tourist attractions of the DRC are
(Tragelaphus strepsiceros), Cape eland (Taurotragus
national parks, museums, botanical and zoological sites
oryx), reedbuck (Redunca redunca), waterbuck (Kobus
and several sites of interest in connection with the history
ellipsiprymnus), hartebeest (Alcelaphus lichtensteini),
of the country and its culture and traditions.
African
buffalo
(Oreotragus
NATIONAL PARKS
(Syncerus
oreotragus),
caffer),
bushbuck
klipspringer (Tragelaphus
scriptus), blue duiker (Cephalophus monticola), lion (Panthera leo), leopard (Panthera pardus), African wild
KAHUZI BIEGA PARK
dog (Lycaon pictus), hyena (Crocuta crocuta), jackal (Canis adustus), cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus), golden
Kahuzi Biega National Park is located in southern Kivu,
monkey (Cercopithecus mitis kandti), baboon (Papio
close to the border with Burundi where a vast area of pri-
anubis) and the galago.
mary tropical forest lies. It is dominated by two extinguished volcanoes, the Kahuzi and the Biega. Between
MAIKO PARK
2,100m and 2,400m altitude, there are 250 mountain gorillas surviving from the last generation. This habitat
Created under Decree 70/312 of 20th November 1970,
has been listed by UNESCO since 1980.
the surface area of Maiko park extends across Orientale and Nord Kivu provinces. It covers a surface area of
The fauna of the park includes: mountain gorilla (Gorilla
10,000km. The park is entirely covered by dense and
gorilla graueri) chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes), owl-faced
humid equatorial forest. It has a varied fauna and this
monkey (Cercopithecus hamlyni), colobus monkey
park is noted for its rare species such as mountain gorilla
(Colobus guereza), red colobus (Colobus badius), forest
(Gorilla gorilla graueri), okapi (Okapia johnstoni) and the
elephant (Loxodonta africana cyclotis), African buffalo
Congo peafowl (Afropavo congoensis).
(Syncerus caffer), giant forest hog (Hylochoerus meinertzhageni), Rockefeller’s sunbird (Nectarinia rockefelleri),
SALONGA PARK
African green broadbill (Pseudocalyptomena graueri), Created by Decree no. 70/318 of 30th November 1970,
and Grauer’s swamp-warbler (Bradypterus graueri).
this park is one of the five sites recognized by UNESCO in
KUNDELUNGU PARK
the DRC, together with Virunga, Garamba and Kahuzi Biega as well as the reserves in Epulu. They lie within the
Kundelungu Park, which is located in Katanga province,
Central Basin of the Congo and stretch across the pro-
was founded in the colonial era and received the status
vinces of Equator, Bandundu and Kasai. With a surface
of a national park through Decree no. 70/317 of 30th
area of 36,000 sq. m, the Salonga Park is the biggest
November 1970 and no. 75/097 of 1st March 1975.
reserve of tropical forest in the world.
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The park has many species found in equatorial forest but
VIRUNGA PARK
is noted as a refuge for the bonobo (Pan Paniscus), which is an endangered species and is endemic to the DRC.
Since its creation under the Decree of 21st April 1925,
The most common species found in this park are: bongo
Integrale (an integral natural reserve) under the name of
(Boocercus euryceros), sitatunga (Tragelaphus spekei),
Park National Albert (Albert National Park). It covers a
grey duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia), African slender-snouted
surface area of 8,000 sq. km. Its boundaries were modi-
this park has been recognized as a Reserve Naturelle
crocodile (Crocodylus cataphractus), red river hog
fied through the Decree of 12th November 1935. This
(Potamochoerus porcus), yellow-backed and black-
park is located in eastern DRC and shares boundaries
fronted duiker (Cephalophus silvicultor and Cephalophus
with the national parks Sanctuaire de Gorilles (Gorillas’
nigrifrons), hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius),
Den) (29,000 hectares) in Uganda and Parc National de
forest elephant (Loxodonta africana cyclotis), pygmy ele-
Volcans (23,000 hectares) in Rwanda.
phant (Loxodonta pumilio), forest buffalo (Syncerus caffer nanus) and three species of pangolin (Manis tetra-
It has a large and varied fauna including: elephant
dactyla, M. gigantea, M. tricuspis tricuspis). The birdlife is
(Loxodonta africana), hippopotamus (Hippopotamus
very varied including species such as grey parrot
amphibius), buffalo (Syncerus caffer), many species of
(Psittacus erithacus) and Congo peafowl (Afropavo con-
antelope (e.g. waterbuck and topi), warthog, lion, diffe-
goensis), a rare and endangered species. There are also
rent types of monkeys in the central plain of Rwindi, a
several species of snakes and a wide variety of fish spe-
colony of pelicans in the plain of Rutshuru, mountain
cies.
gorilla (Gorilla beringei) and chimpanzee (Pan tro-
UPEMBA PARK
gorilla in the east (Gorilla graueri), okapi (Okapia johns-
Located in the Katanga province, this park was created
(Tragelaphus
under the Decree of 15th May 1939. Its boundaries were
(Hylochoerus meinertzhageni), together with numerous
modified by Decree Law no. 696041 of 22nd August
species of birds.
glodytes) in the extinguished volcano chains, lowland
toni), and species endemic to the Congo, bongo euryceros)
and
giant
forest
hog
1969. Nowadays it is governed under Decree Law no. 75/241 of 22nd July 1975. It covers a surface area of
GARAMBA PARK
10,000 sq. km. The Garamba National Park, which lies near the borders Kundelungu Park and Upemba Park are the only places in
with Sudan, is well known for the numbers of white rhi-
the DRC where Grant’s zebra (Equus burchelli bohmi) are
noceros that live there (Ceratotherium simum cottoni).
found wild. There are also some notable species of shell-
Three other mammals predominate: elephant, northern
fish
crustacean
giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis congoensis) and hippopo-
(Thermobathynella adami) in the hot springs of the
tamus. This reserve has been recognized by UNESCO
Kaziba (55°C). The Park’s fauna includes: elephant
since 1980.
such
as
the
thermophilic
(Loxodonta africana), buffalo (Syncerus caffer), red lechwe (Onotragus leche), Cape eland (Taurotragus oryx),
Other species in the park include: buffalo (Syncerus
sable antelope (Hippotragus niger), hippopotamus
caffer), hartebeest (Alcelaphus), waterbuck (Kobus ellip-
(Hippopotamus amphibius), southern reedbuck (Redunca
siprymnus), chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes), baboon (Papio
arundinum),
duiker
anubis), colobus monkey (Colobus), vervet monkey
(Sylvicapra grimmia), warthog (Phacochoerus aethio-
(Cercopithecus aethiops), roan antelope (Hippotragus
oribi
(Ourebia
ourebi),
grey
picus), red river hog (Potamochoerus porcus), waterbuck
equinus), sitatunga (Tragelaphus spekeii), reedbuck
(kobus ellipsiprymnus), hartebeest (Alcelaphus lichtens-
(Redunca redunca), yellow-backed duiker (Tragelaphus
teini) as well as numerous birds.
silvicultor), forest hog (Phacochoerus porcus), lion
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Baby Chimpanzees like Wembi are often taken out of their natural habitats for our entertainment. Don't let these creatures be forced away from their safety and their homes
(Panthera leo), leopard (Panthera pardus), bongo
Taken as a whole, the reserves cover a surface area of
(Boocerus euryceros), red river hog (Potamochoerus
576 hectares. Their creation dates back to the twentieth
porcus) and giant forest hog (Hylochoerus meinertzha-
century: Kisantu and Eala were established in 1900 and
geni).
Kinshasa in 1936. Kisantu has 3,000 flora species, Kinshasa has 125 species and Eala, with 371 hectares,
BOTANICAL RESERVES
has over 6,000 species and 11,000 herbarium specimens.
Presently the country contains three botanical reserves
NATIONAL MUSEUMS
run by the Institut des Jardins Zoologiques and Botanical du Congo: jardins d’Eala, Kisantu and Kinshasa.
The DRC has a rich culture derived from its multicultural
Although these areas are used for the development of
population and history. Part of its cultural assets are dis-
the Congolese agricultural sector, they are still of consi-
played at the National Museum located on Mount
derable importance for the progress of science.
Ngaliema.
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To date this museum holds 60,000 pieces collected from across the 11 provinces and the capital of the DRC.
• City of Boma, former capital, with the famous baobab tree that bears the writing carved by explorer Henry Stanley; it is also a maritime port
OTHER ATTRACTIONS
• City Matadi erected on large boulders is a maritime port and harbour for fishermen
In every province there are many worthwhile tourist
• Inscriptions made by explorer Diego Cão.
attractions connected to the past history of the province,
• Site of Vivi, the first capital city of the Congo
to the richness of the culture and its folklore. Here is a list
• Inkisi Falls
of the best-known sites and activities and their locations.
• Botanic garden at Kisantu
Bas-Congo:
• Site and barrage of Inga
• Zongo and Nsanga dams on Inkisi River
• Muanda : coastline region, nautical sports
• Caves located at Mbanza Ngungu
• Seaside stations at Nsiamfumu
• Caves of Mbanza Nsanda (Luozi)
• Leisure fishing at Congo River estuary
Kwilu Ndongo, breathtaking sights in Bandundu
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
Ville de Kinsha sa
• National Park and Lake Upemba
• Mount Ngaliema, remains of ancient caravan route
• Fishing activities on Lake Moero
• Campus of Kinshasa
• National Park of Kundelungu
• Big market of Kinshasa
• Fishing at night on Lake Tanganyika
• Municipality of Kinkole, villages of fishermen P rovince Orie ntale
• Domaine de la N’sele • Lukaya Falls
• Leisure walk along Congo River
• Lake Ma Vallée
• Wagenia fishing activities and Falls
• Black River
• Lokeles piling constructions
• Rapids at Kinsuka
• Tshopo Falls • Hoyo mounts, caves and Venus ladder
• Plateaus of Bateke
• Gangala na Bodio elephant centre Bandundu
• Adorned and coloured huts of Isiro
• Tembo Falls
• National Park of Garamba
• Bayaka famous dancers and Pende folklore masks
• Epulu station for capture of okapi
• Bwele, Kasongo Lunda, Kwango and Ngomba Falls
• Tourist hunting area of Bili Uere
• Mwengwe Mbemba Falls
• Pygmies
• Lake Maindombe • Fatundu Falls
K ivu
• Lukwila canyons
• Massif of Ruwenzori and its permanently ice-covered peak at 5,113m
• Salonga National Park
• Tourist route on Kabasha escarpment at Beni Equateur
• Massif Virunga’s volcano at Goma: Nyragongo and
• Botanical garden of Eala
Nyamulagira (still active)
• Lake Tumba at Bikoro
• Goma and Bukavu: holiday accommodation with
• National park at Salonga (which covers both Bandundu
moderate climate (1,485m)
and Kasai provinces)
• Semliki Plain and tourist site of Ishango • Nautical sports on Lake Kivu
Kas ai Occide ntal
• Fishing on Lake Tanganyika
• Lake Munkamba
• Pygmies
• Lake Fwa, with holiday accommodation
• Ntore dance (Rutshuru)
• Lulua and Mai-Munene Falls
• National Park of Virunga
• Museum of bakuba works of arts at Mushenge, head-
• National Park of Mount Kahuzi Biega with thermal
quarters of the Kuba kingdom
springs • Hunting safaris
Kas ai Orienta l
• Maiko National Park
• Lake Munkamba (western section)
• Research station of Luiro at Uvira
• Katende Kaboka and Ngandajika Caves
• Thermal springs at Katana and Nyangezi
• Lubi, Tshala and Tshibila Caves • Lake Lombe and Ndinga
HOTELS
Katanga
There are some 50 hotels rated by the Office National du
• Several falls: Kiubo, Nzilo, Lofoi (the biggest in Africa)
Tourisme and about 200 non-rated ones. This field of
• Mineral areas of Lububashi
activity needs much improvement. The main hotels
• Mines and pits of Kolwezi
include:
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Grand Hotel Kinshasa (formerly Intercontinental Hotel)
The garden is composed of a forest reserve from the
Hotel Memling (Kinshasa)
entrance of the garden to the arboretum, which repre-
Hotel Invest (Kinshasa)
sents the forest species of the central basin. In the
Hotel Pyramide (Kinshasa)
museum, you will meet Mr Paulin, a 60-year-old croco-
Christma’s Flats (Kinshasa)
dile. The museum explains all the activities of the garden,
Hotel Fontana (Kinshasa)
its animals, various plants, samples of earth etc.
Hotel Invest (Kinshasa) Hotel Métropole (Matadi)
The botanical garden of Eala is very important for the
Hotel Ledya (Matadi)
agricultural development of the country. Its first goal is
Parc Hotel (Lubumbashi)
the conservation of the fauna and flora of the central
Hotel Karavia (Lubumbashi)
basin, and agronomic research of the Congo. For tou-
Hotel Palm Beach (Kisangani)
rists, it is an important attraction for Equateur province,
Hotel Karibu (Goma)
along with Solanga Park (in Monkoto) and Lake Tumba
Hotel Ihusi (Goma)
(in Bikoro).
Hotel Nyiragongo (Goma)
BOTANICAL GARDEN OF KISANTU
Hotel Résidence (Bukavu) Hotel Orchids Safari Club (Bukavu)
Kibungu Kembelo Visitors to the DRC are advised to confirm hotel bookings
Director
with the hotel before they leave their country of origin.
120km from Kinshasa and 30km from Mbanza Ngungu
MAIN COMPANIES
The Botanical Garden of Kisantu is located 120km south of Kinshasa. The botanical garden was created by father
BOTANICAL GARDEN OF EALA
Justin Gillet (1866–1943). He was a nurse from Belgium who, after having taken care of the population and par-
Ntono Kanga
ticipating in several missions in Congo, decided to start
Director
cultivating fresh vegetables and fruits in Kisantu. This is
N 00°03’ E 18°19’, 7km from Mbandaka
how the first test garden was created. In 1900 the
(formerly Coquilhatville)
government allotted an annual subsidy to the garden, which moved to Yindu. Father Gillet cultivated many
The Botanical Garden of Eala was created in 1900 by
European vegetables and fruits and also other tropical
Belgian naturalist and botanist Emile Laurent, professor
plants like the banana tree or the mangoustan of
of the Agricultural Institute of the State of Gembloux in
Indonesia.
Belgium. The essential idea of this creation was to make known the vegetable richness of central African and its
Father Gillet also tried out many varieties of manioc,
possibilities for agricultural output.
which were later exported across Africa, and decorative plants such as a variety of grass, Paspalum notatum,
The diversity of its plants pleasingly gathered in families
which is now used in all the gardens of Congo.
in the fields, lawn and meadows gives a particular character to the garden not found anywhere else in the DRC.
In 1909 the first catalogue was produced listing 600
Eala is considered the third-best botanical garden in the
varieties. In 1927 there were nearly 1,775. The garden is
world thanks to its particular geographical situation on
subdivided into several parts: The botanical garden with
the equator and its floral richness. The garden covers
plants from all the areas of Congo and other tropical
more than 371ha with over 3,500 species, including
countries, the kitchen garden, and finally the zoological
more than 130 Congolese palm trees.
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gardens, which were used to select the best species of
225ha. There are wetlands, woods, brooks, meadows,
shrubs and trees for wood.
shady zones, etc. The visit takes more than an hour,
The work of Father Gillet quickly became internationally
exceptional plants, the majority of which originate in the
known. His contribution to botany is considerable and
Congo.
during which you will be dazzled by the diversity of
highly regarded by botanists across the world. He discovered, in particular, hundreds of plants hitherto unk-
GRAND HOTEL KINSHASA
nown, with many now bearing his name. With his death, the work was prolonged by Father Hubert Callens, who
Avenue Batetela, B.P. 9535
created a collection of wood samples and an arboretum
Tel: +243-81-8110003
of almost 200 species, which are useful for the foresta-
Fax: +243-812616009
tion of tropical areas. He built a series of pergolas (still
Website: www.grandhotelkinshasa.com
visible today) allowing the culture of shade plants, created a collection of palm trees (92 varieties) and added
Date of Creation: 1968
nearly 4,000 new species to the collections of Gillet. Originally named the Intercontinental from 1971 to Later, as well as the gardens, a school for professionals in
2000, the Grand Hotel of Kinshasa (GHK) is a five-star
horticulture and a chemical research laboratory were cre-
hotel and the largest hotel of the country. With 422
ated. It is in Kisantu that researchers of the Swiss com-
rooms and suites, the GHK also offers conference rooms
pany of pharmaceutical products CIBA discovered the
and banqueting facilities. The principal building has 20
high quality of Congolese rauvolfia and its high content
floors and is located on the Avenue de Batetela, in the
in a specific alkaloid used against hypertension. Today
north-west of the commune of Gombe.
the garden still has an exceptional botanical richness over
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TOURISM
eBizguides DRC
All rooms and suites have air conditioning, mini-bar, tele-
High-quality business and conference facilities are avai-
phone and a satellite television. To complete this pac-
lable. The five fully equipped meeting rooms, hosting up
kage, the hotel offers you 24-hour room service, a
to 280 people, are ideal for successful meetings and
laundry and steam pressing.
events. The hotel provides a business centre with a full
For business guests the hotel offers in-house secretaries,
airline ticketing and car rental.
range of office support, including Internet access, email,
translation, telefax services etc. The conference rooms and reception offer seven flexible spaces, which makes it possible to accommodate up to 1,000 people.
In the colourful atmosphere of the Papageno Restaurant, each meal becomes a celebration with fresh market products, local and international drinks and imported wines.
For your free time, the pub is open from 1100 to 1500
The cuisine harmoniously combines creativity, the mood
and from 1800 to 0200. Inside the hotel you can find
of the season and local recipes.
four types of restaurant (Brewery, grill, speciality and fine dining). The swimming pool and the sports centre (tennis
In the hotel, you will also find L’Entr’act bar, a fashio-
courts, squash courts, sauna, weights room, massage)
nable place where refreshing cocktails and a large and
will also help you to relax.
exclusive range of spirits are served, and the Mangoustan Coffee Shop, which offers French style brasserie cuisine
You will find everything you need in the Grand Hotel,
and atmosphere.
even a shopping mall, a casino and a night club named Atmosphere, the meeting spot for the jet set of Kinshasa.
Other facilities include: swimming pool, fitness centre, disabled-adapted and non-smoking rooms, 24-hour
Above all, the hotel offers a first-class service with 100%
room service, same day laundry service, free hotel par-
Congolese employees.
king, hairdresser, gift shop, flower shop, various bouti-
HOTEL MEMLING
upon request (US $50 one way).
ques, pharmacy, airport shuttle and protocol available
Mr Honoré Bouissou
Other activities like golf, tennis and water sports are only
General Manager
five minutes by car, not counting the various activities
5 av. du Tchad, B.P. 68, Kinshasa
that can be arranged hassle-free at the hotel lobby. Hotel
Tel: +243-81-7001111
Memling is here for all your business or leisure needs.
Fax: +243-81-3013333
Website: www.memling.net/indexb.html
INSTITUT CONGOLAIS POUR LA CONSERVATION DE LA NATURE (ICCN)
Activity: Hotel and catering services
Madame Eulalie Bashige Baliruhya
Email: info@memling.net
CEO The Memling Hotel, a five-star hotel, is ideally situated in
13 av. des Cliniques, Commune de la Gombe,
the heart of the business district of Kinshasa and only a
B.P. 868, Kinshasa 1
few minutes from its 18-hole golf course. Its 160 deluxe
Tel: +243-88-06065 / 98-277838 / 98-130296
rooms and 20 executive suites with individually contro-
Email: pdg.iccn@ic.cd
lled air-conditioning and electronic key systems, direct
Website: www.iccnrdc.cd
telephone, 13 satellite channels, mini-bar and electronic safe will ensure you have a comfortable stay.
Date of Creation: 1925
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The Institut Congolais pour la préservation de la nature
Bonobos, or pygmy chimpanzees (Pan paniscus), are the
(ICCN) has its origins in 1925 with the creation of the
last of the great apes to have been discovered, but they
Albert Park, the national park of the Virungas, the first
could well be the first to disappear. A species unique to
national park created in Africa, with the aim of protec-
the DRC, bonobos face the threat of extinction due to
ting the mountain gorillas. This Institution has changed
war, hunting and deforestation.
its name several times: IPNB in 1934, it became Institut des Parcs Nationaux (IPNC) in 1967 and Institut National
Lola ya Bonobo means ‘paradise for bonobos’ in Lingala,
de la Conservation de la Nature (INCN) in 1972. Since
the main language of Kinshasa. In 2007 Lola ya Bonobo
then, its name has varied according to the country name.
was home to 52 bonobos, who live in 30 hectares of pri-
In 1975 it was the Institut Zairois pour la Conservation de
mary forest.
la Nature (IZCN), when the country became the Republic of Zaire. But when Zaire became again the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 1997, the institute changed its
The bonobo sanctuary has three interrelated objectives:
name again to Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de
• To ensure the physical and psychological rehabilitation
la Nature.
of orphaned bonobos confiscated by the Environment
The ICCN is a public company created in 1975 with the
entrusted to the ABC;
Ministry in accordance with the CITES treaty and
objectives to manage and preserve the protected areas,
• To contribute to the protection of bonobos in their
to support and promote scientific research in ecology, to
natural environment through educational programmes
develop ecotourism that respects the fundamental princi-
organized for school groups at the sanctuary and
ples of nature conservation, and to integrate conserva-
through advocacy work; and
tion into the process of local development of the popula-
• To contribute to a better understanding of the species
tion. ICCN is a multidisciplinary institution. With a total
by providing juvenile and adult bonobos with a site con-
staff of almost 2,000 people, ICCN covers various disci-
ducive to their social organization, minimizing human
plines including: 6 veterinarians, 10 biologists, 2 geogra-
influence, and by facilitating ethological research con-
phers, 18 zoologists, 7 economists, 4 commercial and
ducted at the sanctuary.
financial scientists, 3 agronomists, 2 political and administrative scientists, 3 social and management scientists,
RÉSIDENCE HOTELIÈRE SOFIA
1 lawyer, 4 physical education and rural development 1060 Avenue Mpolo, C/Gombe
workers, and 4 historians.
Tel: +243-81-3132329 / 99-990659
LOLA YA BONOBO In the heart of the downtown area of the Congolese Crispin Mahamba
capital, the Residence Hotelière Sofia offers a quality
Petites Chutes de la Lukaya, Mont Ngafula, Kinshasa
higher than any other in Kinshasa. Six luxury apartments
Tel: +243-81-5032315
are at your disposal for a pleasant stay in ‘Kin the beau-
Email: friendsofbonobos@yahoo.com
tiful’.
Website: www.lolayabonobo.org The rooms are well equipped with audio-visual equipFounded by Claudine Andre in 1994, Lola ya Bonobo is a
ment, wireless Internet and personal kitchen area for an
sanctuary run by the NGO Les Amis des Bonobos du
at-home feeling and relaxing stay. At your disposal you
Congo (ABC). Since 2002 the sanctuary has been located
will also find an ultramodern and comfortable lift for
at Les Petites Chutes de la Lukaya, just outside of
quick and easy access to your room.
Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
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w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
Each apartment has its own living room, comfortably fur-
neighbouring Mount Hoyo area was managed with the
nished, giving you a small home away from home. The
park and is home to a population of Bambuti Pygmy
international standard rooms have queen-size or king-
people, caves and waterfalls, but since the civil wars the
size beds, Jacuzzi baths and showers with several shower
park has suffered somewhat. Land invasions and intense
heads.
poaching have challenged the park authorities to the limit, but most rangers have remained active. Since 1994
Residence Hoteliere Sofia can be used for business as
about 120 rangers have been killed in the line of duty
well, thanks to its conference offices and business mee-
protecting the park from illegal poaching and land acqui-
ting
sition.
VIRUNGA NATIONAL PARK
The park was placed on the List of World Heritage in
Parc National des Virungas, Station de la Rwindi, Rwindi,
of 1.5–2 million refugees into Kivu province. This led to
Danger in 1994 after civil war in Rwanda and the influx
Goma, Kivu
massive uncontrollable poaching and deforestation: 9,000 hippopotamuses were killed; fuel wood cut for
The Virunga National Park (formerly Albert National Park)
refugee camps was estimated at 600 metric tonnes/day,
covers an area from the Virunga Mountains to the
depleting and erasing the lowland forests. Most of the
Rwenzori Mountains in the eastern Democratic Republic
staff were unpaid and lacked means to patrol the 650km-
of Congo, bordering Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda
long boundary and the north and centre of the park were
and Rwenzori Mountains National Park in Uganda.
successively abandoned; many guards were killed.
Covering 7,800km2 it was established in 1925 as Africa’s
Protective patrols also turned to poaching. The fishing
first national park. It was classified as a World Heritage
village near Lake Rutanzige grew to threaten the integrity
Site in 1979. In later years it has become known for its
of the park. Most of the gorillas living higher up the
mountain gorillas, although poaching and the Congo
mountains have survived but tourism ceased. The park
Civil War have seriously damaged its wildlife population.
has become a threatened island in a sea of subsistence
The park is managed by the Congolese National Park
cultivation.
Authorities, the Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature (ICCN).
In 1996 the World Heritage Committee recognized that major effort would be needed for at least 10 years after
The national park covers the western shores of Lake
this tragedy to rehabilitate and restore management of
Edward, known for its hippopotamuses (depleted by
the park and regain local support for its conservation.
more than 95% in 2006), while elsewhere marshland,
The UNHCR and other agencies in charge of refugee
grassland plateau and plains dominate the park. The
camps sited within and on the edges of Virunga were
Ruwenzori Mountains lie on the Ugandan border and rise
contacted and the government informed of the
to alpine meadows and a glacier, while Nyiragongo and
Committee’s wish to help the IUCN and world institu-
Nyamuragira are both active volcanoes with substantial
tions by providing training and technical assistance to
associated lava plains.
deal with the threats to the park.
Although mountain gorillas are now extremely rare, successful conservation work has secured the remaining populations. In fact, they increased during the years of political upheaval in the region (1994–2004). It is believed that both savanna and forest elephants and chimpanzees can still be found in Virunga, along with okapi, giraffes, buffaloes and many endemic birds. The
211
TRANSPORT & C O M M U N I C AT I O N S
We can't cross the river without a pirogue Bakatisaka ebale te soki bwatu ezali te Congolese saying 213
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
eBizguides DRC
TRANSPORT
The transport sector is engaged in the ongoing changes, particularly within state-owned companies such as
Transportation plays an important role in the develop-
Onatra, RVA, RVM, SNCC, RVF, LAC etc., in order to
ment process. In the DRC this sector is one of the bottle-
bolster the privatization process in the framework of
necks to development because of insufficiency of trans-
partnership between the private and public sectors
port means and roads in bad repair.
Considering both the large land area and geographic fea-
TELECOMMUNICATIONS
tures of the DRC, it is impossible to foresee economic development without due consideration of the need for
The telecommunications sector has been formally orga-
building and maintaining a diversified, reliable and effec-
nized by Decree Law no. 254 of 23rd August 1940. This
tive transport network, like there was in the colonial era.
was added to by Decree Law no. 68/475 of 13th December 1968, which created the Office Congolais des
Nowadays, the DRC transport system relies on a navi-
Postes et Telecommunications (OCPT) specializing in fixed
gable river network of 15,000km consisting of the River
and mobile telephones and airmail.
Congo, its tributary rivers and lakes. The poor quality of services offered by OCPT, technoloNon-navigable portions are linked by railroads. This entire
gical progress, along with the rise in demand are the
transport pattern constitutes a multimodal transport net-
underlying factors behind the reformation of this sector,
work, which combines waterways, railways, roads, air
which was opened to private investment in the early
routes and sea routes.
1990s with the setting up of Telecel, which operated under the GSM system (Mobile System for Global com-
The transport network comprises 5,064km of railways (Matadi/Kinshasa
366km,
Kalemie/Kamina
892km;
Kisangani/Ubundu
125km;
Ilebo/Sakania
munication), conducting business in a monopoly.
1,833km,
Tenke/Dilolo
522km;
The sector boomed in 2002 with the setting up of com-
Kindu/Kabalo
305km;
panies such as Oasis (now Tigo Sprl), Celtel, Vodacom,
Bumba/Munggbere 868km; Komba/Bondo 121km;
CCT and CKT (now Standard Telephone) and many other
Andama/Titule 32km and Ubundu/Kongolo 305km), and
small businesses.
145,000km of seasonal and permanent roads. The railways are part of the national railway. The national trans-
Nowadays, all networks are interconnected and the
port infrastructure extends across the national territory
country is linked to the rest of the world.
from Banana town to Sakania town with some sea, rail and river linkages.
The market potential, which was assessed at 500,000 subscribers a dozen years ago, has now overstepped this
The infrastructure includes:
threshold at 2,500,000 subscribers today. This means a
• 5 international airports;
growth rate of 4% and the sector offers good prospects
• 265 aerodromes;
to investors in cellular telephones and fixed telephones.
• several landing fields;
With reference to 11% being the standard acceptable
• 40 river and lake ports;
penetration rate for telephone subscribers, the telecom-
• 3 sea ports (at Matadi, Boma and Banana).
munications coverage area in the DRC can be assessed at more than 4,000,000 inhabitants.
This sector is among those with almost unlimited investment potential at the level of basic infrastructure (roads, ports, airports, railroads) as well as at that of transport stock (vehicles, trains, airplanes, vessels).
215
T R A N S P O R T & C O M M U N I C AT I O N S
eBizguides DRC
The legal framework of the telecommunications sector is
• Discharge the annual costs incurred for the utilization
governed under the Law no. 013/2002 of 16th October
and management of the frequency.
2002, which provides for the conditions of access for any investors:
• Set up a company as an SPRL (private limited liability company) of which at least 30% of the share capital
MAIN COMPANIES AFRICAN INTERNATIONAL TRADERS “AFRITRANS, SPRL”
should be held by Congolese nationals. • Request a public service concession licence from the
Nazim Rawji
public authority for a payment of non-refundable fees.
Administrator Director
The licence includes conditions and obligations relative to
1169, Avenue des Poids Lourds,
the coverage, the capacity of the network, the quality of
BP 2957, Kinshasa 1
the service and conditions and fees due based on the
Tel: +243-81-7005200 / 99-9915240
licence and interconnection.
Email: nazim.rawji@afritrans.cd
• Secure a licence of exploitation and a book of memo-
Website: www.pageweb.cd/afritrans
randum prepared by the regulation authority, approved and signed by the Minister of Post and Telecommunications
Activity: Transport
(PTT) and published within the gazette.
Date of Creation: 1994
• Pay annual costs for the management of the plan for
Employees: 214
registration and the control over the utilization thereof, and an annual contribution to the special funds of uni-
In 1993, The Democratic Republic of the Congo, then
versal service and research.
Zaire, was going through a historically marking economic
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
eBizguides DRC crisis resulting from two successive lootings that des-
Afritrans is focused on customer appreciation and provides
troyed the country’s economy.
practical experience, highly qualified personnel, and new, quality materials to its clients and will continue to develop
The most affected companies, economically speaking,
goods and services so as to follow this developing market
were the private companies within the transport sector as
and always offer the best services possible to clients.
well as the National Office of Transport (ONATRA), the main railway transport company. opportunities
for
commodities
Consequently, the transport
on
the
The company’s difference and quality are marked by a reliable delivery of services within a challenging environ-
Matadi/Kinshasa Road became neglected.
ment.
In light of these events and difficult times, Plc Afritrans
Afritrans - Taking the road together.
entrepreneurs decided to involve themselves, as much as possible, in the improvement of transport on this rudi-
AGETRAF SDV
mentarily important axis in order to participate in boosting the country’s economy.
Yves Debiesme
The company hosts a massive fleet of 64 Iveco and Tatra
4200 Av. Général Bobozo Adruma
Administrator Director
tractors, and 105 Randon and Fruehauf trailer trucks as
Kinshasa, Gombe
well as several storehouse machines. The trucks transport
Tel: +243-81-5110114 / 8951449 / 898946770
containers, vehicles and sawn wood.
Email: agetraf@agetraf.cd Website: www.agetraf.cd
T R A N S P O R T & C O M M U N I C AT I O N S
eBizguides DRC
Activity: Seafreight Forwarder (import – export),
With its international network and dynamic manage-
Airfreight Forwarder (import – export), Customs
ment,
Clearance, Shipping Line Agent (Delmas CMA CGM,
Congo and all over the world. The staff of 450 people is
Grimaldi Lines, OTAL), Brussels Airlines: Cargo General
determined to protect its prestigious reputation and con-
Sales & Services Agent, Documentation Facilities, Express
tribute effectively to the success of your projects.
SDV Agetraf offers integrated logistics in DR
Mail: Universal Express(UX), Saga Express Mail & Skynet, Handling (forklifts, cranes, super stackers), Warehousing,
CAA (COMPAGNIE AFRICAINE D’AVIATION)
Trucking, Oil logistics, International and national packers and movers, Consolidation Service, Lloyd's agent.
Tadeusz Lutak Director Manager
Founded in 1953 by John Buytaert as Transintra, Agetraf
1 route des Poids Lourds, Kingabwa area, Limete
(Agence de Transit en Afrique) has been integrated in the
Tel: +243-99-9905383
Bolloré – SDV Group since 1990. In the past decade, the
Email: tadek.lutak@caacongo.com
different subsidiary activities in Democratic Republic of
Website: www.caacongo.com
Congo (D.R. Congo) were all merged under the same name and the 1999 buy-out of the AMI network allowed
Activity: Aerial transportation
Agetraf to regroup all its activities at a single site, where
Date of Creation: 1993
it currently have its Kinshasa offices.
Employees: 440
Despite the trials and tribulations that D.R. Congo has
Because of its large territory and lack of land-based com-
suffered in recent years, SDV Agetraf has maintained its
munication infrastructure, the DRC has always developed
operations in the area and remains the benchmark in
its air transportation system. In 1993 the Gap-Aviation
logistics and transportation. Its network now covers more
Company became the Compagnie Africaine d’Aviation
than 88 countries worldwide, operating on 5 continents.
(CAA), a private air operator whose goal is to make the
Due to its worldwide implementation, through the SDV -
DRC proud of its services.
TRANSAMI alliance, it has a sound financial base and very efficient collaborators.
Since its inception, CAA has mainly focused on the development of two objectives:
Being the main shipping line agent in DR Congo (Delmas,
• Being a key player within the private sector, acting for
Grimaldi Lines, OTAL, Setramar, COSCO), it can swiftly
the common interest;
and efficiently perform all agent, cargo handling, and
• Globally exploiting regular and irregular aerial transpor-
documentation services for chartering. Thanks to an
tation.
excellent relationship with airline companies and a worldwide airfreight network, it can guarantee a complete ser-
The fleet is composed of five airplanes, two MD 80 and
vice, including: handling, transportation formalities, cus-
BAC 1-11 to transport people, as well as a Boeing 727
toms clearance and delivery at final destination.
super and a Lliouchine 18 to transport goods.
As the main official freight forwarding and customs clea-
Due to good market performance and quality services,
rance company in DR Congo, it provides customers with
the company has the trust of several United Nations
an extensive infrastructure (office buildings, warehouses,
agencies, such as the World Health Organization, United
container yards and handling equipment). It operates
Nations Development Program and World Food Program.
throughout the country, thereby offering infinite solutions for freight logistics and bonded warehousing requi-
Punctuality, security of passengers and their goods, and
rements.
economically friendly prices are the reasons for customers to always choose CAA. This is why, anytime, anywhere,
218
all over the country and the African continent, CAA is
(national or international), text message to email forwar-
able to transfer you or your cargo safely.
ding, worldwide coverage thanks to Celtel’s partners.
“We will be happy to work with you and to welcome
The main concern of Celtel is to be useful to its custo-
you on board!”
mers by using all the modern possibilities that telecom-
Tadeusz Lutak, Director Manager
munications and related fields offer. It has a strong experience in telephony, in signal and data transmission and
CELTEL DRC
in telecommunication by satellite.
Albert Kabeya
The company aim is to completely cover all the DRC and
Head of Business Solutions
to offer quality services to its clients to remain the leader
1 croisement av. Tchad et Bas-Congo, Kinshasa
on the Congolese market.
Tel: +243-99-9964159 Email: kabeya.a@cd.celtel.com
Mobile telephony radically changed the way of living and
Website: www.cd.celtel.com/fr/
working of many people. Celtel allows you to ensure
The first public Celtel call in the DRC was made on 4th
vely and more easily. It helps families and communities to
December 2000. Celtel is a subsidiary of Celtel
remain in contact.
your contacts and to manage your business more effecti-
International, established in 14 countries in Africa. Celtel offers several services such as the management of com-
Celtel is proud to bring mobile communication to various
munications via prepaid cards, text or voice messaging
social backgrounds in the DRC.
219
T R A N S P O R T & C O M M U N I C AT I O N S
eBizguides DRC
Celtel’s objective – now and always – is to offer the ser-
In the next couple of years, the company’s aim is to
vices which meet its clients requirements in communica-
increase the capacity of its bonded warehouse in
tion. Concerned for the development of the communities
Kinshasa, so as to manage some 100 containers and to
in which it operates, Celtel is engaged in several social
develop the warehousing management system (WMS).
programmes such as Build Our Nation. This programme
Thanks to new technologies, it will upgrade its tracking
consists of providing teaching tools to schools in difficulty
software in order to give the possibility to clients of trac-
all over the country.
king their merchandise (location/documentation/clearance) online via the internet.
COMEXAS AFRIQUE The company thinks that the DRC is a complex and diffiJean-Michel Philippot
cult country but with a great and full potential for inves-
Managing Director
tors. The main qualities necessary to develop any activity
av. Colonel Ebeya 15–17
in the Congo are patience and rigour. It is necessary to be
Tel: +243-89 8996800
in contact with the right people you can trust, to have
Fax: +32-2-7065779
the means to deliver your policy and never forget to con-
Email: kinshasa@comexas.cd
sult qualified advisors and experts (tax specialists, law-
Website: www.comexas.cd
yers, forwarders).
“To help you to develop your business, our motto is:
Activity: Transport
‘Simply quality at your service’.”
Date of Creation: 1953
Jean-Michel Philippot, Managing Director
Capital: CDF 34,974,410,95 Turnover: CDF 282,804,943,4 (2006) Employees: 125
CYBERNET SPRL
Comexas has been active in Congo since 1953. Despite
Bill Kalamba
the problems and difficulties that the country has been
General Manager
faced with, Comexas has been able to maintain and even
RCM21 Nouvelles Galeries Présidentielles,
develop its activities in the DRC. It began with offices in
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa and in Bas-Congo (Matadi, Boma and Moanda)
Tel: +243-81-7005112 / 99-9918734
and from 2006 had offices in Katanga (Lubumbashi,
Email: Jean Louis Wisomi – info@cybernet.cd
Kolwezi and Kasumbalesa) as well.
Website: www.cybernet.cd
It offers services in shipping (Bridge Lines-NDS, Asiatic
Activity: Internet service provider, sales of IT products,
Shipping, Nordana Lines), chartered vessels, and tankers
data connectivity
and reefer vessels. It is also a well-known import/export
Date of Creation: 2000
company, offering airfreight and seafreight, and offers
Capital: US $1,000,000
forwarding and customs clearance from all of its various
Turnover: US $4,000,000
offices across the country. Finally, it offers services in
Employees: 35
mining logistics. Cybernet is a Congolese private company with limited Its main projects are in logistics and forwarding for inter-
responsibility (Sprl), existing since 2000, its main business
national organizations (e.g. Monuc, UN, MSF, WFP ) and
purpose being the sale of computer equipment (IT pro-
famous trading groups (e.g. Unilever, Castel, Hexagon,
ducts) and telecommunication services.
Danzer-Interholco, Olam, Katanga Mining).
220
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
eBizguides DRC Made up of computer engineers, specialists, mathemati-
nized the Democratic Republic of Congo election, the
cians and technicians, Cybernet offers innovative solu-
Central Bank of Congo’s in-country network and British
tions for high-speed broadband connectivity using HNS
American Tobacco’s in-country network.
(Hughes Network Systems) DirecWay equipment. In terms of data connectivity, it has built its own satellite
It has built up a company to provide the DRC with the
network to allow in-country data transactions.
opportunity to access all the latest technology in informa-
Cybernet provides all kinds of IT services: high-speed bro-
one of the keys for the development of African nations.
adband, networking, interconnectivity, web develop-
Cybernet’s vision is to be the leading communication
ment, web hosting, software development, multimedia
solutions provider in the DRC.
tion and telecommunications. It sees this technology as
development and training.
GENERALCO Cybernet has already worked for many years on big projects in public and private national or multinational com-
Ferdinand Kabongo Ntumba
panies, helping them to implement large-scale systems
Managing director
and information networks, both locally and regionally. It
4480 av. du Militant, Kinshasa. Ndolo
offers business solutions for inter-company network solu-
Tel: +243-81-8111912
tions, dedicated solutions and broadband solutions. Its
Email: kaffer@generalco.cd
main projects have been the installation of 49 sites for the CEI (Independent Electoral Commission), which orga-
T R A N S P O R T & C O M M U N I C AT I O N S
eBizguides DRC
Originally based in Lubumbashi (Katanga), Generalco was
tallations, their activation and provides customers with
created in 1992 by a team of entrepreneurs with the aim
remote assistance. Brussels is the operational and logis-
of conducting general trade. In 1995 Generalco started
tics platform.
its activities as a customs broker and expert in customs clearing and documentation, in order to ensure a high-
GBS has a long-standing experience and practical know-
quality service in the DRC.
how of the realities of Africa and an in-depth knowledge of networks, networked applications and telecommuni-
With a public warehouse recorded through the office of
cation services. The other strong point is its ample expe-
Customs and Excises, Generalco takes care of the move-
rience in the information technology sector, computer
ment of goods. Its best asset to date is the fact that, with
supplies and in IT maintenance service provided by highly
its 10 years of activity, the company has acquired the abi-
qualified technicians. Its team of engineers are perma-
lity to make customs declarations. In addition to its role
nently in the field to find out the latest and most efficient
as customs broker, Generalco also acts as a private agent
technologies in order to satisfy in the best and cheapest
for several clients who continue to support the company.
way the needs of its clients. Its thorough knowledge of the realities of Africa allows it to achieve this difficult aim.
The successful experience of the counters at the seaport of Matadi and the international airport of Ndjili will set an
Personal contact with clients, follow-up, quality control
example for the realization of its third customs counter in
and after-sales services form the basis of the client policy.
the country in the company’s own Kinshasa-based pri-
The main target is 100% client satisfaction and the fee-
vate offices.
ling that GBS has built, with its clients, something which they can be proud of.
It offers fast, effective and reliable services as it can transfer your goods to other destinations within short
With offices in Europe, United States, Middle East and in
time spans and in full safety, and can manage the receipt
different countries in Africa, its infrastructure allows GBS
of your goods and their storage in vast warehouses. For
to be quick to react and therefore to show the serious-
all these reasons, choose Generalco for safety in busi-
ness and professionalism which underlie the company’s
ness. For more than 10 years all the members of the great
decisions.
Generalco family have been devoted to customer satis-
ONATRA (OFFICE NATIONAL DES TRANSPORTS)
faction.
GLOBAL BROADBAND SOLUTION Daniel Bikindu Daniel Vanderstraete
CEO
Administrator
177 bld du 30 juin,
av. des sciences, Kinshasa/Gombe
B.P. 98 Kinshasa 1
Tel: +243-81-0106095
Tel: +243-98-205291
Email: dvds@gb-solution.com
Fax: +243-1398632
Website: www.gb-solution.com
Email: onatrakin@msn.com
Global Broadband Solution (GBS) is part of a group of
Date of Creation: 1935
entities specializing in IT in Africa, North America and Europe. It operates mainly in sub-Saharan Africa from
The Office National des Transports (Onatra/National
bases in Brussels and Kinshasa. In Kinshasa it has a per-
Transport Agency) is a publicly owned company, based in
manent team of highly qualified and experienced engi-
Kinshasa, which operates railways, ports and river transport
neers and technicians. This team executes the VSAT ins-
in the north and west of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
222
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
eBizguides DRC The Office des transports coloniaux (Colonial transport
The network includes the Matadi–Kinshasa Railway,
agency/Otraco) was established in 1935 as a public body
under an agreement with the SNCC, the Congo Railroad
and renamed the Office des transports au Congo
Company. Onatra also own lakes and rivers including the
(Otraco) in 1960, finally becoming the Office National
one from Boma to Banana (Kalamu ferry). The Congo
des Transports (Onatra) in 1971. In 1973 Onatra carried
River, the Kasai River and their subsidiaries are also the
its largest number of passengers ever, a total of 410,871.
property of Onatra.
The government decided to end Onatra’s monopoly of river transport in 1977, and to allow any individual or
The mission of Onatra is to manage most of the ports of
company to own and operate river boats. Decline in the
the DRC, such as the ocean port of Matadi, which is the
state of its assets, together with competition, led to a
most important of the country, and the one at Boma. The
sharp decline, so that by 1982 it only carried 121,779
company also has ports all along the Congo River, with
passengers.
the river ports of Kinshasa, Mbandaka and Kisangani. ONATRA stands tall at the Port of Kinshasa
T R A N S P O R T & C O M M U N I C AT I O N S
eBizguides DRC
As a backbone of the Congolese economy, Onatra is for
SNCC), is a public company of the DRC. It is based in
the government an effective tool for the development of
Lubumbashi in Katanga and is essentially working in the
the country. It is in this context that the company always
east and south of the country. It is active in the develop-
has for its principal objective to increase production on
ment of railroads, but also in river and road transport and
the basis of the actions of exploitation and investment. In
use of the ports.
the near future, the company wants to rehabilitate its production equipment and to set up a marketing policy
Created in 1906, the social object of the Compagnie des
aimed at maximizing profits and client satisfaction
chemins de fer du Bas-Congo au Katanga (BCK) and
through a quality service.
Kinshasa-Dilolo-Lubumbashi (KDL) provided transport by railroad for the mines of the Union Minière du Haut-
SNCC
Katanga to the port of Lobito in Angola.
Nkuluy Kilumba
Until 1990 the money produced by the operation was
CEO
sufficient to support all the loads. With the loss of the
115 Place de la Gare,
mining products, which represented 70% of its sales tur-
B.P. 297, Lubumbashi
nover, the SNCC cannot continue this, hence the idea of
Tel: +243-2342251
adding related activities under an autonomoud manage-
Email: sncc01@ic-lubum.cd
ment. In November 1995 SNCC/Holding and its subsi-
Website: www.ic-lubum.cd/sncc
diary companies were dissolved and a master agreement
The Société nationale des chemins de fer du Congo
private company called Sizarail. In 1997 this company
(SNCC), the national railroad company of the Congo (or
was dissolved and the SNCC resumed all activities.
was signed yielding the exploitation of the railroads to a
National Post Office in Lubumbashi
224
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
eBizguides DRC Today the SNCC is placed under the supervision of the
today represents only one quarter of its former capacity.
Ministry for Transport and Communications and the
Thus, while making efforts to self-finance, the SNCC
Ministry for Portfolio for different activities.
seeks, with the assistance of the government, the financial resources necessary for the renewal and moderniza-
The SNCC’s goals include the study, construction and
tion of its production equipment, in accordance with its
exploitation of the railroads, as well as the exploitation of
programmes of development.
the transport services roads and waterways. The company also has the role of managing the ports. The SNCC
TIGO
network is made up mainly of the rail network connecting the administrative province of Katanga to both Kasaï
Tumba Bob Matamba
and Maniema via 3,641km of railway (including 858km
Chairman
electrified) including the Ubundu–Kisangani section. The
372 av. Colonel Mondjiba,
other principal network is at Lake Tanganika, represen-
Commune de Ngaliema,
ting 1,425km which connects the DRC to Zambia, Tanzania and Burundi. SNCC uses two principal ports
Kinshasa Tel: +243-89-8901000
with Kalemie on Lake Tanganika and Ilebo on the Kasaï
Fax: +243-89-8901001
River.
Website: www.tigo.cd
The principal problems of the company are rooted in the
The new cellular telecommunication company Tigo was
lack of investment necessary to maintain and develop the
inaugurated on 18th January 2007 to replace the former
production equipment. The production of the company
company Oasis. This operator of mobile telephony revo-
T R A N S P O R T & C O M M U N I C AT I O N S
eBizguides DRC
lutionized its field in the Democratic Republic of Congo
initiative. Tigo is the youngest of all the telephone opera-
by removing the per minute tariff and introducing a per
tors in the DRC and is on the way to becoming the leader
second tariff. The dynamism of Tigo is such that, since its
of the market. The reason: it remains in pole position by
establishment in the DRC, this company has been among
remaining closer to its customers.
the best operators in cellular telephony.
TRANS-AIR-CARGO-SERVICE In terms of employment, 230 Congolese were engaged at the end of 2006. This figure should reach 366 at the
Max Lemaire
end of 2007 and 650 by 2010. Taking indirect employ-
General Director
ment into account, the investments carried out by the
14ĂŠme rue Limete Kinshasa
Millicom International Group, of which Tigo forms part, have a significant impact from an economic and social point of view.
Tel: +243-818116066 Fax: +243-227062391 Email: lemairemax@hotmail.com Website: www.transair-cargo.com
Tigo has more than 300 action sites in the DRC comprising thousands of selling and distribution points of Tigo
Located in the heart of Kinshasa, Trans-Air-Cargo-
Sim. In the few months since its creation Tigo was proud
Service, (TACS) deals in airway transportation for people
to have more than 250,000 connected subscribers, which
as well as goods.
is an unequalled record. The company’s main strength is continuing education, level-headedness and human
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
eBizguides DRC With a well-equipped team of diversified aircraft and the
Trans-Air-Cargo-Services is a company with a fast develo-
ambition to stay effective at the heart of Congolese
ping future, in which one can have full trust for all shipping and travelling needs.
Airspace, TACS adheres in full to all aeronautic norms and regulations.
The trust of all the major companies of the country is the best proof of the guarantee, and of the professionalism
Led by a team of experienced professionals, TACS is ple-
of TACS. Always focusing on service, TACS offers a
ased to offer to its clients simple and practical logistics
totally different venture spirit, based on service, following
services, taking in charge the integral follow through of
the client, and being as available as possible for all of
all its clients’ freight, from starting place, to final destina-
them.
tion. For the young and dynamic directing team composed pf In its quest to effectively answer the demands of a cease-
Mr Max Lemaire, Jonathan Lemaire and Aziz Ndoye, DRC
lessly growing Congolese market, TACS has undertaken
is a country with a future, but probably not in every sec-
to diversify and expand in its routes, so as to make all of
tors. The problem in the country is the lack of creativity,
the country’s destinations attainable by air. The assu-
people just copy what is successful, so the future of the
rance offered by TACS’ advanced logistics organization is
country is in innovation, that’s why TACS always tries to
a result of the alliance between its reliability and punc-
innovate, to stay on top.
tuality.
A D D R E S S
B O O K
A pretty basket does not prevent worries Congolese saying
229
ADDRESS BOOK
eBizguides DRC
MAIN MINISTRIES OF THE GOVERNMENT
Email: cabfinances@yahoo.fr / minfinrdc@micronet.cd Website: www.minfinrdc.cd
The main ministries of central government and
Ministry of Fore ign Affairs and International Cooperation
Parliament are given below
bld. Palais de la Nation Kinshasa, Gombe
Ministry of Agriculture, Fishing and Fa rming bld. du 30 juin,
Ministry of Home Affa irs (Dome stic M atters, Te rritory
Kinshasa, Gombe
Se curity a nd Decentra liza tion) bld. Tshatshi
Ministry of Budget
Kinshasa, Gombe
Immeuble Alhadef, bld. du 30 Juin Ministry of Hydrocarbons
Kinshasa, Gombe
Immeuble Cohydro, Avenue des 3 Z Ministry of Civil Service and Utilities
Kinshasa, Gombe
Building Administratif, bld. du Palais de la Nation Tel: +243-99-8166936 / 81-4743196
Ministry of Infrastructure, Public Works and
Email: minfprdc@yahoo.fr
Reconstruction 26 bld. Tshatshi,
Ministry of Economy
Kinshasa, Gombe
Imm. Onatra, bld. du 30 juin B.P. 8500 Kin. 1, Kinshasa, Gombe
Ministry of Industry
Email: sgeconomie@yahoo.fr
4744 av. Lubefu Kinshasa, Gombe
Min is try o f E le me nta ry , S e co nd ary a nd V oca tio na l Educa tion
Ministry of Justice
Croisement des avenues des Clinques et Batetela
Croisement avenues des Cliniques et
B.P. 3161, Kinshasa, Gombe
bld. Palais de la Nation
Tel: +243-81-9264860
Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: ministeredelepsp@yahoo.fr Ministry of Labour and Social Security Ministry of Energy
bld. du 30 juin
5963 bld. 30 juin, Imm. Regideso, 15 ĂŠtage
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe Email: rdcministerenergie@yahoo.fr
Ministry of Mining 3e ĂŠtage Imm. Sozacom, bld. du 30 juin
Ministry of Environment a nd Wildlife Conservation
Kinshasa, Gombe
15 av. Papa Ileo (ex. des Cliniques) B.P. 12348, Kinshasa, Gombe
Ministry of P ortefe uille
Tel: +243-30235 / 3125
707 av. Waguenia Kinshasa, Gombe
Ministry of Finance
Tel: +243-81-8120673
bld. du 30 juin (rondpoint socimat)
Email: minportefeuill2007@yahoo.fr /
Kinshasa, Gombe
min-portefeuille@yahoo.fr Website: www.ministereduportefeuille.org
230
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
Ministry of Planning
Offices of Senate
4155 av. des Coteaux Q/ Petit Pont
Palais du Peuple
B.P. 9378, Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Lingwala
Email: miniplan@micronet.cd
Email: senat@parlement-rdc.org
Ministry of Post, T elephone and Telecommunications
House of Represe ntatives (Na tiona l Assembly)
4484 av. de la Démocratie (ex. Huileries)
Palais du Peuple
B.P. 13504 Kin. 1, Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Lingwala
Tel: +243-20715 / 99-8737140 / 81-2765360
Email: assnat@parlement-rdc.org
Email: minpttdrc@netcourrier.com
Ministry of Public Hea lth
INVESTMENT DIRECTORY
3410 bld. du 30 juin B.P. 3088 Kin. 1, Kinshasa, Gombe Tel. +243-81-5021591
In the DRC the principal ministers and agencies that offer consultancy relating to the process of investment are the following:
Ministry of Regional Cooperation Boulevard du Palais de la Nation
Office National du Tourisme
Kinshasa, Gombe
Mr. B. Lubenga Av. du Commerce no. 24
Ministry of Scie ntific and Technology Rese arch
Building SOMIP (1er niveau)
54 av. Colonel Ebeya, Imm. Dungu (ex. Sozabank)
B.P. 9502, Kinshasha
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-81-5091625/28
Tel: +243-81-5203502 / 99-9947059 / 99-7529139
Fax: +243-81-5091625
Email: minrst-cd@yahoo.fr
Email: ontrdc@netcourrer.com
Ministry of Small and M edium-Sized Business
Agence Nationale pour la Promotion des Inve stisse ments
bld. du 30 juin
(ANAPI)
Kinshasa, Gombe
Professor Buabua wa Kayembe General Manager
Ministry of Transport
Av. Colonel EBEYA n° 54,
117 bld. du 30 juin, Imm. Onatra
Immeuble de la Reconstruction, Ex-SOZABANQUE
Kinshasa, Gombe
Gombe, Kinshasa
Tel: +243-21710 / 8802470 / 8802554 / 8802333
Tel: +243-81-326490 / 81-6996548
Fax: +243-8802257
Email: anapirdc@anapi.org or anapirdc@yahoo.fr
Email: min-transcoms@yahoo.fr
Website: www.anapi.org
Ministry of University a nd College Education
Fédération des Entreprise s du Congo (FEC)
10 av. des Forces Armées (ex. Haut Commandement)
Mr. Francois Kazadi
B.P. 5429, Kinshasa, Gombe
Director: Economic and Commercial Development
Tel: +243-81-4939980
B.P. 7247, Kin1
Email: minesu@micronet.cd
Tel: +243-9907953 Fax: +243-81-3464900 Email: feccongo@hotmail.com
231
ADDRESS BOOK
eBizguides DRC
Confederation of Small and Medium Congole se
Onatra (Office National de s Transports)
Ente rprise s (COPE MECO)
Immeuble Onatra, bld du 30 juin
Mr Georges Bukasa Tshienda
Kinshasa, Gombe
President
OTHER USEFUL CONTACTS
BP 20577, Kinsahsa XV Tel: +243-99-18839 / 98-334943
Email: copemeco@ic.cd / copemeco3@ic.cd
Construction, Public Works and Civil Engineering
Ministry of Planning
Sa fricas
Fax: +243-88-03208 / 88-03882
Mr Patrice Dibobol Kitmut
Tel: +243-99-9915025
Coordinator
Email: safricas@ic.cd
4ème niveau n°19, Immeuble UBC/Centre Batipont
Coin Avenue des Aviateurs/Nation Tel: +243-81-4034070
Tel: +243-99-8278622
Email: pdibobol@yahoo.fr
Email: batipont@ic.cd
Ministry of Public Work s and Infrastructure
General Construct
Mr Jean-Marc Gauthier
Tel: +243-81-8800497
Coordinator: Infrastructure Unit
Email: bodarwe-gillet@ic.cd
71, Avenue du Roi Baudouin,
Insurance Brokers and Agencies
Commune de la Gombe Tel: +243-81-7006121
Sonas
Email: tpicelluleinfrastructures@yahoo.fr
bld du 30 juin National Association of Public Compa nies , encompassing
Tel: +243-81-0336787
sta te -owned companie s (ANE P)
Email: sonas@hotmail.com
Avenue de la Justice Immoaf
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-9916351 Central Ba nk of The Congo (BCC)
Email: immoaf@ic.cd
Avenue Tshashi Allc de Court d’Ass et Eas s
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-8167649 Funds for the Promotion of Industry (FP I)
Email: acardc@caramail.com
Avenue Justice Kinshasa, Gombe
Mining
The Mining Registrar (CAMI)
Borga kim Mining Sprl
Immeuble Gécamines, Boulevard du 30 juin
Tel: +243-89-8910357
Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: borgakin@orgaman.com
Agency for the Management of the Public Debt (OGEDEP) Avenue Justice Kinshasa, Gombe
232
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
Entreprise Generale Malta Forrest
S MK/Envil Mining (Socié té M iniè re de K olwezi)
Lubumbashi, Katanga
Kolwezi, Katanga
Tel: +243-2342232
Tel: +243-99-7026284
Email: egmf@forrestgroup.com
Email: joeds@envilmining.com
Mining Compa ny Ka tanga Group
De Bee rs
Tel: +243-2348385
Tel: +243-81-2653519
Email: mckgoup@mwangaza.cd
Email: debeers.drc@debeersgroup.com
Société de Traitement de s Re jets de Mutoshi (SRM)
Money Transfer Institutions
Tel: +243-99-7026284 S oficom
Email: mike@anvil.com.au
1 av. des Sénégalais Société pour le T ra iteme nt du T erril de Lubumba shi (ST L)
Kinshasa/Gombe
Tel: +243-99-7032815
Tel: +243-99-9909999 / 81-7300000
Email: stl-st@lub.jobantech.cd
Email: soficom@micronet.cd
Carrigres
Mister Ca sh
Tel: +243-99-8230000
Tel: +243-99-9983445
Email: fvdh.carrigres@ata-sat.be
Email: odent@afrinet.cd
Sedico Sprl
Colikin
Tel: +243-99-9952736
Avenue du Port Tel: +243-81-9915449 Email: colikin@ic.cd Almost a final product! This copper powder, ready for smelting, is worth a lot!
233
ADDRESS BOOK
eBizguides DRC
Globa l-Expres s / Globex Transit
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-8120220
Tel: +243-81-7009471
Email: globextransit@ic.cd Cameroon
EMBASSIES AND DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS IN THE DRC
171 bld 30 juin
B.P. 10998, Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-9916822
For those countries not featured, please contact the Ministry of Foreign
Affairs
in
your
own
country for updates on the Honorary Consul that represents you in DRC.
Cana da 17 av. Pumbu Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-9904334 Email: kinshasa@dfait-maeci.gc.ca
Algeria 50/52 av. Colonel Ebeya
Centra l Africa n Republic
B.P. 12798, Kinshasa, Gombe
Quartier Bon MarchĂŠ, Commune de Barumbu
Tel: +243-81-8803717
B.P. 10998
Email: ambalgerie@raga.net
Tel: +243 898910431
Angola
Chad
413 bld 30 juin
804 av. Okito Q. Binza Pigeon
B.P. 8400, Kinshasa, Gombe
B.P. 9097, Kinshasa, Ngaliema
Tel: +243-99-99006927
Tel: +243-99-9909908
Email: mjb@raga.net China Aus tria
447 av. des Aviateurs
73 av. Riviera
B.P. 9098, Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-81-8135967 Email: amba-chine@ic.cd
Belgium Place du 24 octobre
Congo Brazza ville
B.P. 899, Kinshasa, Gombe
176 bld du 30 juin
Tel: +243-89-8924233
B.P. 9515, Kinshasa, Gombe
Fax: +243-762154472
Tel: +243-99-9971453
Email: diplobel.kinshasa@ic.cd Cu b a Benin
En face du Ministère de la Justice
3990 av. des Cliniques
Tel: +243-81-3330140
B.P. 3265, Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-8128659
Czech Re public
Email: abkin2004@yahoo.fr
54 av. Tshatshi B.P. 8242, Kinshasa, Gombe
Brazil
Tel: +243-81-7005074
97 av. Roi Baudouin
Email: mikes@raga.net
234
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
Denma rk & Norwa y
India
Tel: +243-81-3300125
186 av. Batetela
Email: delegation-dem-rep-of-congo@cec.eu.int
B.P. 1026, Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-9932872
Egypt 519 av. Ouganda
Ira n
B.P. 8838, Kinshasa, Gombe
78 bld du 30 juin
Tel: +243-81-5021788
B.P. 16599, Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-81-7005298
France 97 av. Tchad
Ita ly
B.P. 3093, Kinshasa, Gombe
8 av. Mongala
Tel: +243-81-7006685
B.P. 1000, Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: ambafrance@ic.cd
Tel: +243-81-8846106 Fax: +243-99-9975360
Ga bon
Email: ambitalykin@ic.cd
165 av. Colonel Mondjiba B.P. 9592, Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-8110326
Ivory Coas t 68 av. de la Justice B.P. 9197, Kinshasa, Gombe
Ge rmany
Tel: +243-81-8132882
82 av. Roi Baudouin B.P. 8400, Kinshasa, Gombe
Japan
Tel: +243-81-5167526
Building Marsavco (City Bank), av. Colonel Lukusa
Fax: 37797990252
Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: amballemagne@ic.cd
Tel: +243-81-8845305 / 81-8801243 Email: ambj@raga.net
Ghana 206 av. de la Libération
K enya
B.P. 9755, Kinshasa, Gombe
4002 av. Ouganda
Tel: +243-81-7008795
B.P. 9667, Kinshasa, Gombe
Fax: +243-81-3464048
Tel: +243-99-9931936
Email: ghanem@africanus.cd Lebanon Greece
19/25 av. Joli Parc, Q/Ma Campagne
3 étage Imm. Hellénique, bld 30 juin
B.P. 15740, Kinshasa, Ngaliema
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-9908222
Tel: +243-99-7019222 Email: grembkin@ic.cd
Libe ria 1 étage App. 12 Imm. Royal
Guine a
B.P. 8940, Kinshasa, Gombe
7–9 av. Lubefu
Tel: +243-81-6907272
B.P. 9899, Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: liberia22@yahoo.fr
Tel: +243-99-9946070
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ADDRESS BOOK
eBizguides DRC
Libya
Tel: +243-81-7006327
av. des Armées (ex. Haut Commandement)
Email: ambpolkin@raga.net
B.P. 8616 Kin. 1, Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-9832710
Portugal 270 av. des Aviateurs
Malta
B.P. 7775, Kinshasa, Gombe
20 av. Bandundu
Tel: +243-99-9938966
B.P. 1800, Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: portrdc@ic.cd
Tel: +243-81-3330128 Email: aosm@ic.cd
R u ssi a 80 av. de la Justice
Morocco
Kinshasa, Gombe
5 av. Ouganda
Tel: +243-99-8758471
B.P. 912, Kinshasa, Gombe
Fax: +243 99 9975135
Tel: +243-81-70070989
Email: ambaus@africanus.cd
Email: ambamaroc@ic.cd South Africa Namibia
54 av. Ngongo Lutete
139 bld du 30 juin
B.P. 7829, Kinshasa, Gombe
B.P. 8934, Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-81-7005800
Tel: +243-99-9970297
Email: ambasud@raga.net
Fax: +243-99-9970570 Email: namembassy-drc@ic.cd
Spa in 4 étage Imm. Hellénique, bld 30 juin
Nethe rlands
B.P. 8036, Kinshasa, Gombe
9 av. Nzongotole
Tel: +243-81-8843195
B.P. 10299, Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: ambespagne@ic.cd
Tel: +243-81-8001140 Email: nlgoukss@ic.cd
Sudan Croisement av. Wangata et bld 30 juin, 1 étage Imm. Afora
Nigeria
B.P. 8724, Kinshasa, Gombe
141 bld 30 juin
Tel: +243-99-9970123
B.P. 1700, Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-81-7005144
Sw eden
Email: nigemb@jobantech.cd
89–93 Roi Baudouin Kinshasa, Gombe
North K orea
Tel: +243-99-8182528 / 81-3330121
168 av. Ouganda
Email: ambasuede@ic.cd
B.P. 16597 Kin. 1, Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-8892775
Sw itze rland 654 av. Colonel Tshatshi
Pola nd
B.P. 8724, Kinshasa, Gombe
63 av. de la Justice
Tel: +243-99-9972003
B.P. 7775, Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: ambasuisse@ic.cd
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w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
Tanzania
Tel: +243-99-8596585
142 bld 30 juin
Email: nuntius@raga.net
B.P. 1612, Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-81-8106228
Z ambia
Email: amb.tanzanie@ic.cd
54/58 Avenue de l’école B.P. 1144, Kinshasa, Gombe
Togo
Tel: +243-99-9999437
3 av. de la Vallée B.P. 10197, Kinshasa, Gombe
Z imba bwe
Tel: +243-81-3330127
Imm. Ogedep 2 étage
Email: ambatogo@yahoo.fr
Avenue de la Justice B.P. 8245, Kinshasa, Gombe
Tunisia
Tel: +243-81-8836010
67/69 av. Cercle
Email: atkinshasa@yahoo.fr
INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS IN DRC
Turk ey
Agence Ame ricaine pour le Developpement (USAID)
Kinsha/Gombe Tel: +243-99-8704376
18 av. Pumbu
av. Isiro (à coté de la gare centrale)
B.P. 7817, Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-81-7007500
Tel: +243-99-8204850 / 81-7005715
Email: tckinshe@raga.net
www.usaid.gov/cg
United K ingdom
Agence Canadienne de De ve loppement (ACDI)
83 av. Roi Baudouin
Imm. Banque Centrale du Congo 513
B.P. 8049, Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-8109100
Tel: +243-89-8960309
Email: ambrit@ic.cd
Email: prbcc@hotmail.com
United S ta tes of America (US A)
African Union (UA) Bra nch of Kinshasa
310 av. des Aviateurs
1 av. Forces Armées
B.P. 697, Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-81-2255872
Tel: +243-81-8109300
Email: meecera@state.gov
Fax: +243-1398923 / 8807977 Email: oua-kin@micronet.cd
Uruguay 125C av. Colonel Mondjiba (Utexafrica)
Belgian Te chnical Cooperation (CTB/BCT)
Kinshasa, Gombe
15/17 av. Colonel Ebeya
Fax: 13035682169
Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: spid@ic.cd
Tel: +243-81-8946611 Email: representation.rdc@btcctb.org / ctbrdc@ic.cd
Vatican (Nonciature Apostolique) 89 av. Goma
Centre Wa llonie Bruxelles
B.P. 3091, Kinshasa, Gombe
21 av. Equateur
237
ADDRESS BOOK Kinshasa, Gombe
eBizguides DRC International Orga nization of La bour (BIT)
Tel: +243-99-8010800
Imm. Losonia, bld du 30 juin
Email: secretariat@walbru.cd
B.P. 7248
Comite International de la Croix Rouge
Email: oit.kin@undp.org
Tel: +243-81-7006189 / 99-9947875
32 av des Cliniques Kinshasa, Gombe
Mo n u c
Tel: +243-89-8940006 / 99 99 00074
12 av. des Aviateurs
Email: kin@icrc.org / kinshaha.kin@icrc.org
Kinshasa, Gombe
Echo
Email: recrutement.rdc@undp.org
Tel: +243-81-8906265
Imm. BCDC 14/15 étage, bld du 30 juin Kinshasa, Gombe
O CDH
Tel: +243-81-3300125
Imm. Losonia, bld du 30 juin
www.delcod.cec.eu.int
B.P. 7248, Kinshasa, Gombe
Europea n Community (E U)
Email: hrfoc.kinshasa@undp.org
Tel: +243-81-8803847
14/15 étage Imm. BCDC, bld du 30 juin B.P. 2699, Kinshasa, Gombe
OIM (International Orga nization of Meteorology)
Tel: +243-81-8946690
Tel: +243-99-9916630
Email: délégation-dem-rep-of-congo@cec.eu.int
Email: dterzi@iom.int
Website: www.delcod.cec.eu.int ONUSIDA Fondation Konra d Adenauer Stiftung
Imm. Losonia, bld du 30 juin
402 av. de la Révolution, 7e rue QRésidentiel
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa/Limete
Tel: +243-81-8800840 / 81-8813617
Tel: +243-81-8801787 Email: badoreck@hotmail.com
Pa nafrica n Union of Te lecommunications (Union Panafricaine de Telecommunications)
HRFOC
av. Isiro (cfr. Place le Château)
Imm. Losonia, bld du 30 juin
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-9955950 / 81-5007041
Tel: +243 88 03847 Email: hrfoc.kinshasa@undp.org
UNDP Imm. Losonia, bld du 30 juin
Interna tiona l Burea u of Labour (BIT)
B.P. 7248, Kinshasa, Gombe
Imm. Losonia, bld du 30 juin
Tel: +243-81-8101749
B.P. 7248, Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: registry.cd@undp.org
Tel: +243-81-7006189 / 99 9957875 UNES CO Interna tiona l Monetary Fund (FMI)
Imm. Losonia, bld du 30 juin
5 étage Imm. Hotel de Monnaies, BCC
B.P. 7248, Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-8120114
Tel: +243-81-700 6183
Email: kinshasa@unesco
Email: xmaret@inf.org
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eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
UNICEF
Tel: +243-88-04211
87 Immeuble Hellénique, 5 étage
Email: hulg-ops@ic.cd
B.P. 7248, Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-81-8801942 / 81-8801815
UNI C
Email: kinshasa@unicef.org
6194 Imm. Losnia, bld du 30 juin B.P. 7148, Kinshasa, Gombe
WHO
Tel: +243-81-5040917
42 av. des Cliniques
Email: registry.cd@undp.org
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-81-7006402 / 81 7006403
World Ba nk Group 4847 av. Wagenia
World Food Program (PAM)
Kinshasa, Gombe
Imm. Losonia, bld du 30 juin
Tel: +243-81-7005215
B.P. 7248, Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: wfp.kinshasa@wfp.org
INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES
UNFP A / FNUAP
Air Fra nce
Tel: +243-81-7006755
Imm. Losonia, bld du 30 juin
5D av. du Tchad, Hotel Memling
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: fnuap.rdc@undp.org
Tel: +243-89-8946631 / 81-8845548 Website: www.airfrance.com
FAO 436 bld du 30 juin
Air Gabon
Kinshasa, Gombe
bld. du 30 juin
Tel: +243-81-8804662
Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: fao-zar@fied.fao.org
Tel: +243-998704159 Email: fih_airgabon@yahoo.fr
UNHCR 6729 av. de l’Oua
Brus sels Airline s
Kinshasa, Gombe
33 bld. du 30 juin
Tel: +243-81-8801248
Kinshasa, Gombe
Fax: +243-00871763629645
Tel: +243-89-8975001
Email: codki@unhcr.ch Cameroun Airlines OCHA
526 bld. du 30 juin
Imm. 6194 Losonia, bld du 30 juin
Kinshasa, Gombe
B.P. 7248, Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-9901430
Tel: +243-99-9986489 Email: ochardc@un.org
E thiopian Airline s 9 av. du port
UNOPS
Kinshasa, Gombe
Imm. Losonia, bld du 30 juin
Tel: +243-81-7006588/89
B.P. 7248, Kinshasa, Gombe
239
ADDRESS BOOK
eBizguides DRC
Travelling in DRC is always an adventure
Kenya Airways
Tel: +243-81-5182768
bld. du 30 juin, Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: dir@bcdc.cd
Tel: +243-99-9911239
Website: www.bcdc.cd
Email: kenyaairwaysgsa_fbm@yahoo.fr Banque Congolais e SAA (South African Airways)
Crois. av. de la Nation et des Aviateurs
bld. du 30 juin
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-9982003 / 99-998010222
Tel: +243-81-7005908
Email: akinshasa@congobank.ic.cd
Email: saardc@jobantech.cd
Website: www.congobank.com
BANKS
BIAC bld. du 30 juin
Many reliable local banks are
Kinshasa, Gombe
sprouting up in DRC. The financial
Tel: +243-99-8591999 / 81-7004001
sector is picking up!
Email: cti@biac.cd Website: www.biac.cd
Afriland First Bank CD bld. du 30 juin, Place Mandela
BI C
Kinshasa, Gombe
191 av. de l’Equateur
Tel: +243-81-0775359
Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: afrilandfirstbankcd@ckt.cd
Tel: +243-81-8843790 / 81-9937994
Banque Comme rcia le du Congo
Citibank Congo (Citigroup)
bld. du 30 juin
av. Colonel Lukusa et Ngongo Lutete
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
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eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m Dr Ke rroch
Tel: +243-81-8840015 / 99-8340015 Fax: +243-81-3017070
En face de l’ambassade du Gabon, number 150, Kinshasa, Kintambo
RAWBANK
Tel: +243-99-9915050
3487 bld. du 30 juin Kinshasa, Gombe
DRY CLEANERS
Tel: +243-81-9832000 / 99-8320000 A good dry cleaner is extremely
Email: contact@rawbank.cd
hard to find here. A common pro-
Website: www.rawbank.cd
blem is the staff stapling your refeStanbic Ba nk Congo 12 av. Mongala
rence tag to your clothes!!! Specify NO STAPLING!
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-81-7006000/6801
5 à Sec, crois. av. de l’Equateur et de la Paix
Email: stanbiccongoinfo@stanbic.com
Kinshasa, Gombe
Website: www.stanbic.com
Tel: +243-99-9920200
Trus t Merchant Bank Sa rl ( TMB)
P res sing Yes
Lubumbashi
Rondpoint Forescom
Tel: +243-99-7023000
Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: tmb@trustmerchantbank.com
Tel: +243-81-5112260
DENTAL SERVICES
V it Ne t
Dr Fra ncis Articla ut
Kinshasa, Gombe
34/21 bld. du 30 juin
bld. du 30 juin Kinshasa, Gombe
HAIR AND BEAUTY
Tel: +243-99-8278729 New Amour Cabinet Denta ire Spix
55 av. Isiro
10 av. de la Mongala
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-8044225
Tel: +243-99-8116882 Mike Ha ir Cabinet Denta ire Karavella
2 av. Mutombo katshi
124 bld. du 30 juin
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-9923127
Tel: +243-99-9955155 / 81-8841554 New Infinitif Centre de Sa nte Bucco Denta ire
av. du Tchad, Hotel Memling
Dr Dormal
Kinshasa, Gombe
av. Colonel Mondjiba, Complexe Utexafrica
Tel: +243-81-5095138 / 81-3300100
Kinshasa, Ngaliema Tel: +243-81-8941564
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ADDRESS BOOK
eBizguides DRC
Salon Steve
Tel: +243-89-8910415
22389 Galerie de la Bourse, Rondpoint Forescom
Email: kabongojimmy@yahoo.fr
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-9926726 / 81-99726
Office of Ima gery of Gombe
Email: Salon_steve@hotmail.com
Kinshasa, Gombe
MEDICAL SERVICES
Ultrasound services.
Tel: +243-99-9970735 / 99-8343976
Clinique La kkis
Hos pita l Ma man Marie Mutombo
av. Colonel Ebeya
bld. Lumumba, près du Marché de la
Kinshasa, Gombe
Liberté, Kinshasa, Masina
Tel: +243-81-5146794
Tel: +243-81-5129649
CMK (M edical Center of Kinshasa)
Hospital Comple x Gen Tai
168 av. Wagenia
1 av. St Christophe, Q/Funa
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Limete
Tel: +243-89-8950300
Tel: +243-99-9972244
CMI (International Me dial Cente r) av. Mbuji-Mayi, Kinshasa, Gombe Private clinics are available for those of higher means, but healthcare needs urgent development
eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
PHARMACIES
Arc-en-Ciel 4 Batetela, Grand Hotel Kinshasa
Apothee k
Kinshasa, Gombe
Galeries Centenaire
Tel: +243-81-8110003 / 89-8946660
bld. du 30 juin
SPORT ACTIVITIES/ HEALTH CLUBS
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-8222221
Pharma cie Saint Jean
For outdoor lovers, behind the
100 av. du Tchad
ambassadors' houses along the
Kinshasa, Gombe
river is a closed off km of street where many people run, walk,
Tel: +243-81-5182444
bicycle‌ wonderful at sunset. Pharma cie du Me mling 5D av. du Tchad, Hotel Memling
Centre Kolongono
Kinshasa, Gombe
4 av. Batetela, Grand Hotel
Tel: +243-81-7001111
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-81-8110003
Interna tiona l Pharma cy Grand Hotel Kinshasa
Cercle de K inshasa
Kinshasa, Gombe
414 av. du Cercle Kinshasa, Gombe
PHOTOGRAPHY
Tel: +243-81-7005936
Fujifilm
Cercle E lais
15 Building Botour
15 av. Colonel Lukusa
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-81-9944520 / 81-8138001 Cercle Onatra Kodak
av. Luambo Makiadi
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-9947847 / 81-8129303
Tel: +243-81-5048520
Email: pixkin@prodimpexcd.com Communaute Hellenique
SHOPPING CENTRES
87 bld. du 30 juin Kinshasa, Gombe
Two words for shopping here:
Tel: +243-81-5040694
expensive and limited. Bring the basics and all your favourites.
Adoni Hotel Memling Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-8840000 / 99-9954045
243
ADDRESS BOOK
eBizguides DRC
244
LEISURE
The cook never forgets himself (reap what you sow) / Bolingo ebandaka na yo moko Congolese saying
245
LEISURE
eBizguides DRC
INTRODUCTION
Before enduring the European influence, these ethnic groups were socially and politically organized into empi-
Today’s Democratic Republic of Congo, the deep heart of
res and kingdoms. Some of these still exist, living along
Africa, remains fervent in the imagination, a place where
with the modern administrative structures. The Kuba
we find Conrad’s heart of darkness, Tintin gallivanting in
Empire, headed by King Nimi Kwete Mbokashanga in
Africa or Thierry Michel discovering an African Amazon
Kasaï Occidentale, and the Lunda Empire, headed by
and a rich Eden.
Chief Mwat Yav in Katanga, reflect this atypical cohabitation between modern administrative structures and tra-
Beyond these literary notions, the Democratic Republic of
ditional and customary ones.
the Congo is above all an amazing cornucopia of marvellous natural resources and unfathomable landscapes,
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is also a country
where friendly and creative women and men live toge-
where several religions coexist, such as Catholicism,
ther.
Protestantism, Islam and Kimbanguism, as well as many
The third-largest African country, the DRC is legendary as
embraced a new spiritual dimension, arising from diffe-
new churches. In the past few years, the country has
being one of the most beautiful and diverse countries on
rent beliefs, from various forms of Christianity to other
the continent. Indeed, Congolese landscapes are astonis-
kinds of mystical religious doctrines.
hing, from unimaginable forests in central Equateur, vast savannas in Katanga and the Kasaï, snow-covered moun-
In terms of local faiths, the Kimbanguist church, created
tains in Ruwenzori, to the immense lakes and volcanoes
in 1921 by Simon Kimbangu, appears to be the church of
in Kivu.
most significance.
The cultural diversity portrayed by music, sculpture, wea-
FOOD AND DRINKS
ving, masks and painting reflects the hybrid Congolese community, comprising hundreds of different tribes with
FOOD
four main ethnic groups: Swahili, Tshiluba, Kikongo and Food in the DRC is eventful! Recipes here are as varied as
Lingala.
the numbers of tribes existing in the country, each with
CULTURAL RESOURCES
its regional inspirations influencing variations in textures and flavours.
These four main ethnic groups also represent the four main spoken dialects, well known by most Congolese,
If you are expecting multi-course meals, sub-Saharan
who are multilingual. More than 250 dialects reflect the
Africa is not your region. People tend to focus on a
cultural Congolese landscape, however the official lan-
hearty plate of starch, such as rice. The daily food staple
guage of French and these four national languages are
for the Congolese is a base of manioc (kasava), which can
the only ones commonly used. Luckily for us, neither tou-
be prepared in various ways. Fufu is manioc flour added
rists nor business globetrotters need learn a local langua-
to boiling water (sometimes 50/50 with corn flour) and
ge before getting to the DRC, but we hope your French
stirred until it turns into a doughy polenta type of food.
is up to par, as English speakers are not common.
Chikwange is fermented manioc, boiled over a few days,
The ethnic groups of the DRC are each peculiar in their
wrapped in banana leaves and boiled again to get a rub-
customs and have a rather highly delineated structure,
bery roll of manioc. Although these may sound a bit
then kneaded until a type of thick paste is obtained, then
through which the ethnic tribes have always been subdi-
scary, don’t be afraid of the local manioc foods. They are
vided into clans, where historically chiefs have headed
more on the bland side, purposefully, as they are there to
the patrimony.
accompany a nice heavy sauce or stew or salted meat.
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eBizguides DRC
MUAMBA NSUSU
LIBOKÉ NA MBISI (FISH IN BANANA LEAF)
This peanut-based chicken stew is one of the most famous and popular sub-Saharan African stews, which comes from the Kongo people of Congo and Angola.
Using leaves for cooking is common in the world’s tropical areas. In Central Africa, both fish fillets and whole fish are cooked in leaf packets over charcoal fires and grills. All over the Congo River area, this specific method of cooking is called Liboké in Lingala. Leaves of banana plants or marantaceae are essential because of the special flavour they give to the dish.
You need: • 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces • 1 onion, chopped • small tin of tomato paste • vegetable oil • half a cup of peanut paste (ground peanuts and salt) • hot chilli pepper or cayenne pepper, to taste
You need: • banana leaves • 1–2kg of fresh fish (either whole or cut into fillets, steaks or pieces); in Africa freshwater fish are typically used • 1 to 2 onions, finely chopped • juice of 1 to 2 lemons • salt • black pepper • cayenne pepper or red pepper • oil (a spoonful) • 1 tomato, chopped and crushed (optional) • a few okra, chopped (optional) • a bunch of sorrel leaves (optional)
Preparation: • Fill a large pot with enough water for a soup base. Bring it to a boil. Add the chicken and boil it until the meat is done and a broth is obtained. • While the chicken is boiling, gently sauté the onion in several tablespoons of oil until the onion is tender. • Remove the chicken from the broth and remove the meat from the bones. (Save the broth and keep it at a low simmer.) • Combine one cup of the chicken broth with the peanut and tomato pastes and stir until smooth. • Return the chicken meat to the broth and add the peanut–tomato paste mixture. Stir and continue to simmer until the soup has thickened. • Season to taste. Serve with rice, tshikwang or fufu and more hot pepper.
Preparation:
Ice: As in all African countries, be careful with ice. Try to always get your drinks chilled, so ice is not necessary.
DRINKS Apart from water, the most common beverages consumed during dinners are bottled soft drinks and local beers. The DRC has two main breweries, Bralima and Bracongo, which produce beers and soft drinks throughout the country. In the DRC beer flows like water and the nation is mainly divided into two groups: Primus drinkers (Bralima) and Skol drinkers (Bracongo). The third brewery of the DRC, and sister company of Bracongo, is Brasimba, based in Lubumbashi, which is known for a darker lager called Tembo.
247
• If you are cooking a whole fish: Prepare a marinade by mixing together the oil, chopped onion, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, red pepper (and any optional ingredients you choose). Clean the fish, but leave the scales on, and cut a few slits lengthwise on each side. Pour the marinade onto the fish and into the slits. Let the fish marinate in a glass dish for 15 minutes. • If you are cooking fish fillets, steaks or pieces: In a glass bowl combine all the ingredients except the fish and mix well. Add the fish and let marinate for 15 minutes. • Warm the banana leaves for half a minute in a hot oven, or on a grill, or in a pot of boiling water. This makes them easier to fold. Remove the centre rib of each leaf by cutting across it with a knife and pulling it off. Cut the ends off each leaf to form a large rectangle. • Wrap the ingredients in banana packets two or three layers thick. (Try a burrito folding technique. Depending on how many leaves and how much (or how many) fish you are cooking, you may want to make more than one packet. Use oven-proof string to tie them closed, or the rib you previously pulled off.) • Cook the packets over an outdoor grill, or in an oven. (If using an oven, you may want to place some aluminium foil under them to catch drips.) Turn them every 10 minutes. After half an hour carefully open the packet and check to see if the fish is cooked. If it is not, close the packet and continue cooking. Watch out for the steam! • Serve directly in the packet with tshikwang or fufu.
Mmm‌ Black Amazon caterpillars and fried termites, local delicacies!
The nation is also a huge producer of palm wine and
adopted rumba and adapted its characteristics to their
highly alcoholic liqueurs made from manioc, bananas or
own instruments and tastes.
even corn, called Lotoko or Kasix. The Congolese rumba has progressively followed an indi-
MUSIC AND DANCE
genization process, which has made it the musica franca
Since the colonial era, Kinshasa, formerly Leopoldville,
symbol of Congolese national identity.
of most sub-Saharan African countries and a significant
has been a hub of musical innovation, ranking alongside This music’s highly eroticized and widely commercialized
Lagos, Abidjan, Johannesburg and Nairobi.
dance was the predecessor of the ardent dance music However, Congolese people have no official term for des-
called soukous popularized in the 1950s. Its name arises
cribing their own music, referring to it simply as muzuki
from the French word secousse, which means a shake,
na biso (our music).
jolt, jerk or shock. It is a popular dance music that can be
Nevertheless, the term rumba or rock-rumba is often
began in the 1980s.
compared to the famous zouk of western Africa, which
used to describe Congolese music. Like most African countries, the Congo was dominated by rumba during
The Democratic Republic of Congo continues today as a
World War II, a fusion of Latin and African musical styles
hub of modern African music, whose success has crossed
that came from the island of Cuba. Congolese musicians
African borders thanks to famous bands such as Luambo
248
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eBizguides DRC Luambo Franco, Joseph Kabasele (Pépé Kalle), Tabu Ley
Manu Dibango (Cameroon/France), Jean-Serge Essou
Rochereau, Abeti Masikini, Madilu System, Koffi
(Congo-Brazzaville), Nino Malapet (Congo-Brazzaville),
Olomide, JB Mpiana, Werrason, Emeneya, Mbiliya Bel,
Sam Manguana (Angola/Cote d’Ivoire), Michel Boyibanda
Tshala Muana and Papa Wemba, among others. These
(Brazzaville) and Youlou Mabiala (Congo-Brazzaville).
world-renowned local personalities promote the DRC
Music is a field with a lot of opportunities for investors
and connect people globally through their music. To
interested in culture.
date, this music is danced throughout Africa as well as in Europe and the United States, where a large African dias-
SPORT
pora is living. In the DRC all common sports are played except rugby The musical sector is an interesting one for investors dea-
and baseball. European football remains the most dyna-
ling with cultural production.
mic sport that gathers people and livens up the masses during every match.
PERSONALITIES Among the African athletes successfully playing in From recent years some famous players worth mentio-
European championship teams are several Congolese.
ning are Mokili Saio Shabani Nonda and Claude
Indeed, many of them have reached an international level
Makelele, African professionals whose careers have pro-
and represent the pride of the African continent, such as
ven successful within the international scene and cham-
Mokili Saio, Shabani Nonda, Makelele Claude, Mpenza
pionships.
Emile and Jérôme (Mbo). You’ll be surprised to find that some very high-ranking public figures actually run foot-
Famous African musicians performing abroad after star-
ball and basketball teams, such is their love of the game!
ting in the DRC include Isaac Musekiwa (Zimbabwe), Traditional dancers
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PROVINCES As the country develops, so do its provinces. Finding a hotel in Kinshasa, Lubumbashi or even Matadi is relatively easy. But keep in mind the lack of tourism and therefore of a developed service industry in the country. You can count on many varieties of basic accommodation, but as you travel into the less populous areas (often towns related to developing sites) the choice becomes very limited. As visitors travelling on business to these areas are often invited, you can count on your hosts to help you find whatever accommodation is available, often vacant private homes used to receive official guests, with low nightly tariffs. These phone numbers are difficult to find. Contact the Provincial Chambers of Commerce and Industry or the ONT (National Tourism Office) for help. Be
In terms of bars and restaurants favoured by expats, you
aware of the cultural differences in standards. Sorry, no
will quickly make your rounds. Be adventurous. Check
little mint on your pillow at night. Bringing a towel would
out the local bars in Matonge, Bandalungwa and throug-
be recommended, and whatever basic toiletries are nee-
hout the rest of the areas of the city.
ded. Although Kinshasa is not a tourist city, it has a certain Eating out and nightlife in the provinces is another limi-
charm arising from its perpetual animations and unusual
ted aspect. In more remote areas you will find one or two
daily fury.
local restaurants are the places to go, which generally make up the nightlife as well. They will generally be fre-
WHAT TO DO
quented by whoever else is itching for a bit of action, but otherwise you can count on a good opportunity to catch
There are many interesting and unusual activities to do
up on your work!
around Kinshasa.
KINSHASA CITY AND PROVINCE
The River The river, omnipresent, is the focal point for excursions in
The capital of the DRC, Kinshasa, is a harmonious
Kinshasa. The two nautical clubs offer the opportunity
symbiosis between modernity and tradition. Located
for relaxing or adventurous water sport activities. Going
along the Congo River, which is the vestige of an ancient
to the river on Sundays is a popular weekend event. It is
lake, it spreads over 25km of Pool Malebo. This is the
common for family and friends to prepare a picnic and
business and cultural centre of the country, encompas-
grill, pick a sandbank and set up camp for the day. There
sing almost 8 million people.
are many different areas where you can go for a picnic along the river, such as Chez Tintin following the route
Kinshasa, once famous throughout Africa for its nightlife
up to Binza, or the Jardin d’Eden, past the airport. For
and vivacity, is still today a hustling, bustling city, offering
daytime picnics these are wonderful spots. At the Jardin
a multitude of local restaurants and bars. The people of
d’Eden you can also take a 10-minute pirogue ride down
Kinshasa, known as Kinois, love being outdoors, eating,
to a private riverbank and have your picnic or order lunch
drinking and dancing.
there.
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Kinshasa City
Lola ya Bonobo
N’Sele
The famous sanctuary for bonobos at Lola ya Bonobo
The presidential park of N’Sele is a national park mana-
(Paradise for Bonobos, in Lingala) is one of the most well-
ged by the Bralima brewery. The park covers more than
known excursions within this region. The site is located
5,000 hectares offering zoological and botanical won-
about one hour from Kinshasa within the Mongafula
ders in a wild natural landscape made up of bushes,
area and hosts 52 bonobos who live in 30 hectares of pri-
savannas, forest galleries, marshes and pools. The com-
mary forest. Bonobos can only be found in the DRC,
plex also offers the opportunity to have a nice picnic in
where they dwell in the tropical forest of the Congo
the park.
Basin to the south of the Congo River. They are very clever and some of them in captivity have even learned how
Maluku
to use human language! Situated in the north of Kinshasa, along the Congo River,
Snake Farm
Maluku is surrounded by splendid forested hills. Maluku also has a local restaurant on site, where you can sit and
About 30 minutes outside of town past Binza you can
relax under a thatched roof hut and enjoy your lunch
find a private home which holds all types of local snakes
before heading out on a pirogue ride.
and other reptiles, even a couple of caymans and crocodiles. You can see all the indigenous snakes of the
Bombo Lumene
region. Very informative, the snake farm’s purpose is to raise peoples’ awareness of which types of snakes are
This is a natural reserve two hours beyond N’djili airport.
venomous and which not. The snake farm also works on
Wonderful for camping, this is a lush haven for certain
anti-venom and research.
antelopes and monkeys, offering trails to visit the encom-
251
All these colours can come from one same litter of pythons!
passing fields and a stretch of river for bathing. A truly
floors with newer accommodation. The place for all
relaxing experience.
public functions, and where all the government officials stay when in Kinshasa.
WHERE TO STAY Residence Cana As tourism in Kinshasa is lacking, high-end hotels are as
387 av. des Palmiers, Place Royal
well. Nevertheless, you can find a selection of small
Kinshasa, Gombe
hotels with comfortable settings.
Tel: +243-99-8881448 Small residence, with nicely furnished rooms in different
High End
sizes at different prices. Comfortable stay, reasonable prices. Faden House 117 av. Colonel Tshatshi
Hotel Me mling
Kinshasa, Gombe
5 av. de la RĂŠpublique du Tchad
Tel: +243-81-5097141
Kinshasa, Gombe
Email: fayulumartin@yahoo.fr
Tel: +243-81-7001111 Fax: +243-99-9975400
Grand Hotel de K inshasa
Website: www.memling.net
av. Batetela
The other large and highly reputable hotel of Kinshasa,
Kinshasa, Gombe
the Memling is in the heart of downtown Gombe and
Tel: +243-89-8946660/61/62
offers higher end accommodation. Many conference
Fax: +243-81-2616009
rooms and a fine dining restaurant as well.
Email: grandhotelkinshasa@ic.cd
Mid Range
Website: www.grandhotelkinshasa.cd In downtown Gombe, near to the ambassadors’ residences and the river, the former Intercontinental stills hangs
Hotel Es toril
on to its reputation as the leading hotel of Kinshasa. You
85 av. Kabasele (ex. Flambeau)
can feel its age, but the new tower has some renovated
Kinshasa, Gombe
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eBizguides DRC
WHERE TO EAT
Tel: +243-898912210 Email: hotelestorilrdc@yahoo.fr Located near the centre, just behind the Gare Centrale,
High End
this hotel offers air-conditioned bedrooms, breakfast and international gastronomy with Portuguese grill speciali-
Chez Nicola 88 av. de la Justice, Rondpoint Socimat
ties.
Kinshasa, Gombe Ja al Center
Tel: +243-81-5022050
7226 av. du Dépôt
One of the oldest establishments of Kinshasa, this Italian
Kinshasa, Gombe
restaurant is notorious for its enormous pizzas and rich
Tel: +243-99-9949200 / 99-8442615
dishes. Located off the last turnabout before Utex Africa.
Email: jaalcenter@yahoo.fr La P iscine
From US $50 per night, Jaal Center offers 12 air-conditioned rooms with en suite bathrooms, TV, DVD, a restau-
av. Luambo Makiadi, Cercle Onatra
rant and a terrace.
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-81-5093005
African Dre am Hotel
Outdoor restaurant around a large pool. You can sit
bld du 30 juin
under the immense gazebo, or around the pool. Lovely
Kinshasa, Gombe
Greek mezzes and grills. The cossas are delicious!
Basic but quaint rooms, in the dead centre of town along the Boulevard. A small terrace and pool for relaxing and
La Pizze ria du Grand Hote l
taking a dip.
Wood oven pizzas from US $15.
Apartment Hote ls
La Ciboule tte
Cercle Elais
av. Colonel Lukusa, Cercle Elais
av. Colonel Lukusa
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-9942710
Tel: +243-99-9942710
Cercle Elais provides comfortable furnished bungalows
Email: ciboulette@ic.cd
ideal for long stays.
Located in the Cercle Elais, this restaurant is unavoidable for refined food lovers for fine French and Congolese dining.
Marik a av. du Livre
Che z Gaby
Kinshasa, Gombe
9b av. de la Mongala Kinshasa, Gombe Residence Hoteliere Sofia
Tel: +243-81-9904213
1060 av. Mpolo Maurice
Renowned for the best cossas in town! This exclusive
Kinshasa, Gombe
Portuguese restaurant will make you feel transported to
Tel: +243-81-3132329 / 99-9906594
a small villa outside of Lagos. Gaby is always around to ensure a wonderful dining experience and to offer you a
Reside nce 165
chocolate to finish off dinner.
165 bld du 30 juin Le Ca f’ Conc’
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-81-8512345/6
13 av. de la Nation,
Email: Residence165@hotmail.com
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-89-8910592
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LEISURE
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For more than 25 years the fine dining restaurant of hig-
Le Chantilly
hest standing in Kinshasa, also offering fresh pastries and
707 av. Colonel Lukusa
chocolates. A must for flattering clients and important
Kinshasa, Gombe
officials. Many private rooms available.
Tel: +243-81-9930300 / 81-6999990 Email: lechantilly@yahoo.com
Le Cercle de Kinsha sa
Bakery, pastry shop, tea room and ices, restaurant, for
Crois. des av. de la Libération et de la
breakfast, lunch or dish of the day.
Justice La Chaumière
Kinshasa, Gombe A delight to the senses. One of the most refined restau-
3469 av. Ngongo-Lutete
rants of Kinshasa.
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-9933721 Chateau Margau
A nice mix of local and European dishes, very reasonable
3668 av. Mbuji-Mayi
pricing. Semi-private huts offer more intimacy to your
Kinshasa, Gombe
dining. The upper crust place for a Congolese fine dining
Tel: +243-99-9917953/ 81-7005036
experience.
This colonial home renovated into a restaurant boasts the best terrace in town. Take your pick between a fine
L’Extreme
dining menu upstairs and private rooms for more impor-
av. de l’Equateur
tant dinner events and lower prices downstairs on their
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-9925126
splendid terrace.
Good selection of European dishes. Rapid service, with a
Mid Range
nice terrace out front. Good sandwich wraps!
Che z T intin
Le Piccolo
Situated on the river after the Mimosa area, on the way
av. Kasa-Vubu
to Binza Pompage, you will find this trendy restaurant
Kinshasa, Gombe
where you can eat local or western food. A no frills inte-
Traditional Italian food. Best pizzas in town! Straight out
rior, with a simple decor showing the legendary comic
of the wood oven.
strip character Tintin makes you feel at home in his uniL’Orangeraie
verse. Do not miss the great view of the rapids!
bld du 30 juin, Immeuble de la Revolution Le 3615
Tel: +243-89-8910344
bld du 30 juin
A really famous fine dining establishment, especially nice
Kinshasa, Gombe
for lunch. Daily lunch menu available at around US $9.
Variety of dishes, mainly Belgian. Outdoor terrace, nice
Good for people on the run, lunch is generally quick.
for a drink or dinner. Attached to the popular disco 3615.
Going Local Le Ce rcle Français 33 av. des Forces Armées
Le Colibri
Kinshasa, Gombe
av. Colonel Lukusa, Immeuble Inga
Tel: +243-81-7007412
Kinshasa, Gombe
Outdoor restaurant, great for organizing special events
Same menu and owners for 40 years! City landmark for those in the know.
and theme parties.
Menu based on toasted closed or open sandwiches. I
254
The riverbanks of Kinshasa are the perfect weekend getaway
MK Re sta urant – Chez Maman Colone l
recommend the Cannibal, with a good dash of their
10 av. Bayaka, Q/Kimbondo
home made whiskey hot pepper sauce. Woah!
Tel: +243-99-9909672 / 81-5111837 Le Maquis de la Gare
In the city this restaurant is legendary
7224 av. des Sénégalais, in front of the train station
for its grilled chicken. The house originally belonged to a
Kinshasa, Gombe
military colonel in colonial times and has kept its stature
Tel: +243-99-9917895 / 81 8959001
as the colonel’s home. Local and western dishes are avai-
Under the straw gazebo or inside the restaurant you can
lable. A must for any newcomer to Kinshasa.
enjoy some typical Congolese dishes.
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LEISURE
eBizguides DRC Super Aubaine
Ma mbo
6081 av. Lokole, Q/Commerce
av. de la Mongala
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-89-8939922
High-energy ambience. The local talent here is a bit more
Sit among local ministers and businesspeople for your
forward.
traditional Congolese food! Sta nding
Going Out
315 av. des Syndicats Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-81-8512345
Kinshasa offers an attractive nightlife. Within the more upscale area of La Gombe the atmosphere is quite inter-
The place in town to dance salsa! Every Wednesday.
national and proves to be a true integration of all cultu-
Small dance floor but friendly atmosphere and good
res, but for more typically local and popular entertain-
music. Also good for a Friday or Saturday night out.
ment Matonge is the place, with many bars lining the VIP /Saloon
roads. Take your pick and have a seat. Although discos are not so commonly frequented during the week, unless
3559 bld du 30 juin
late and mainly by certain ladies in search of companion-
Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-8337009
ship, bars and terraces remain agreeable all week long and the discos fill up fast starting around 10–11 at night.
Pool bar up front and disco in the back. One of the most
Concerts are very common in Kinshasa as well, with so
popular clubs of Kinshasa. Good music, great atmosphe-
much local talent available, so most weekends you can
re and service.
find at least one show to go to. Signs and banners are
Going Local
always posted around town.
Delice
Chez Nte mba
behind Onatra building
Rondpoint Forescom
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Located behind the Memling. Best
Known far and wide, not only in the DRC, but most of
place in Kinshasa to play pool and enjoy good company.
Southern Africa! Chez Ntemba began with one disco and has expanded to everywhere people like to move! Dance
Ibiza Ba r
to local beats throughout the night.
10 av. de la Nation Quartie r Ma tonge
Kinshasa, Gombe
You will enjoy a 24-hour ambience with music, bars,
Tel: +243-81-8125421 Best place in Kinshasa for live music! Great jazz band
nightclubs, concerts and shops open until late.
every weekend! Le Sa va na na Le Grand Ca sino
Kinshasa, Gombe
4 av. Batetela
Local club, located in Gombe, with quite a hot ambience,
Kinshasa, Gombe
where you will enjoy fiery dances.
Tel: +243-81-8110003 / 89-8946663 Close to the Grand Hotel, the casino opens at 6pm and
Le 3615
lasts all night.
bld du 30 juin Kinshasa, Gombe You will enjoy the most beautiful terrace of Kinshasa
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eBizguides DRC around the agreeable bar and only the rain could push you to get into the disco.
Chez Bibi Place Kintambo Magasin Kinshasa/Kintambo One of the most well-known places in Bandal. Live music and good food on an outdoor terrace. Relax, have fun!
Le Surcouf av. Mbuji-Mayi, Immeuble Inga Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-99-9933941 For a more relaxed feel. Outdoor terrace, good for a drink, even a bite.
Mbanza-Ngungu
BAS-CONGO Bas-Congo covers the only ocean inlet to the country,
This area offers various excursion possibilities, one of the
and borders Kinshasa province to the north-east and
main attractions being its caves about 5km from the city.
Bandundu province to the east. Its capital is the famous
Among the caves discover the Chief’s Cemetery, an
port of Matadi. It is the smallest province and the only
extraordinary cave where visitors can wander among
one with a coastline (Atlantic Ocean). This province is the
beautiful stalagmites and stalactites along underground
second-most economically dynamic within the country
rivers. Amazing indigenous blind animals can be found in
after Katanga. A very charismatic population with a
these caves such as bats, crickets and cockroaches. The
strong cultural identity, which formerly was one of the
Ndombolozi’s Ashes cave, where colonists set up a 150m
most important African kingdoms, distinguishes Bas-
trail, houses diverse animals such as boas, chameleons,
Congo: the Mani Kongo’s kingdom. The province is
crocodiles and turtles. By walking a little bit further visi-
dominated by an important ethno-cultural entity, the
tors will find blind albino fish!
Bakongo tribe.
Zongo ENTERTAINMENT Sit in awe of the beauty and power of nature. Zongo is
Kisantu
an incredible way to get away from the day-to-day rush
This botanical garden is an amazing Eden with an inside
camp for the weekend or just come for the day. There are
arboretum comprising about 200 species of mostly indi-
small bungalows available as well. In the morning you
and stress. Only three hours from Kinshasa, you can
genous large trees and plants from all over Africa. It is a
can walk down a trail across from the massive waterfall
marvellous site for everyone from scientists to the com-
and shower in the mist!
mon plant lover eager to appreciate some of the world’s natural wonders. The visit lasts an hour; you will discover reconstituted natural environments such as orchards, brooks, forests, meadows etc.
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WHERE TO STAY
Boma
Matadi
Societe Ngimbi Nzau 203 av. Kasa-Vubu Flat Hote l Ledya av. Longo Sita, Q/Kinkanda
WHERE TO EAT
C/Matadi Tel: +243-99-8510504 / 99-992237
Matadi
The most sought-after hotel in Matadi. Book ahead! Le T rein Hotel Che z T onton
Best terrace in town. View of the river
av. PĂŠcherie, Q/CinĂŠ Palace
and port. Nice dishes, large selection.
C/Matadi Tel: +243-99-9908152
Restaurant Me tropole 2 av. Kinkanda
Hotel Metropole
C/Matadi
2 av. Kinkanda C/Matadi The coastline of DRC, although not very long, is beautiful
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eBizguides DRC
Boma Cercle Gues t House
Restaura nt Exce lsior 452 av. Makuku C/Nzadi, Boma
GOING OUT Matadi Le Tre in
BANDUNDU Bandundu borders Kinshasa and Bas-Congo to the west,
WHERE TO STAY
Equateur to the north, and Kasaï-Occidental to the east. The capital is also called Bandundu, which formerly was
Kikwit
Banningville. Bandundu is the province with the most imposing and incredible waterfalls, which are spread all
Hotel K wilu
over the famous savannah cut by streams and rivers.
av. Lusanga, District du Kwilu
Villages are mostly located on the plateaus and inhabi-
Bandundu
tants walk down into the valleys daily to cultivate the rich
Tel: +243-81-9812980
resources in the forest.
WHERE TO EAT ENTERTAINMENT Bandundu The Congolese waterfalls are undoubtedly the most beautiful and concentrated in Africa. The Kwango-Kwilu
Chez Caroline
area is known for its Tembo (also called Chutes
Local restaurant. Where to go for a bite or a drink.
Guillaume) and Kakobola waterfalls. The Chutes Guillaume formed by the Kwango River are close to the
T he P riests
Angolan border and are regarded as a natural wonder by
The city’s church makes one to two local dishes daily.
Bandundu’s inhabitants.
Very cheap and good food.
This area boasts numerous awe-inspiring and remote
Kikwit
lakes, such as the Moero Lake, a fishing heaven (be careful with crocodiles!), Tumba and Maï Ndombe Lakes,
Res taurant K wilu
invading the virgin forest, and the Kisale with its splendid
av. Lusanga
aquatic flora.
C/Kwilu Tel: +243-81-9812980
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EQUATEUR Equateur is in the north of the country and borders the Republic of Congo to the west, the Central African Republic to the north, to the south the provinces of Kasaï-Oriental, Kasaï-Occidental and Bandundu, and to the east the Province Orientale. The capital is Mbandaka, located on the Congo River. Equateur is characterized by its tremendous central basin spread over 750,000 square km. In this area the hydrographical density is huge mostly because of continuous rains. The Congo River dominates this area with a canal reach of about 1,700km from Kisangani to Kinshasa. Equateur is also the region where tropical forests are most present, representing the second-largest tropical forest after the Amazon. The equatorial forest comprises several vegetative levels where visitors can admire trees over 40m high.
The River ENTERTAINMENT The river, of course, is another focal point of Equateur.
The National Park of Salonga
From Mbandaka you can easily find a pirogue to go out for a cruise and discover the surrounding banks. Do not
Spread over 3,600,000ha, this park is Africa’s largest tro-
miss the Katongo waterfalls in Libenge!
pical rainforest reserve and among the largest in the world. The park, very isolated and almost inaccessible, is
WHERE TO STAY
located at the heart of the central basin of the Congo River. Only recommended to adventurous visitors! There
Mbandaka
is a fabulous African fauna comprising monkeys such as the indigenous bonobo, dwarf chimpanzees, crocodiles
Benghazi
and hippopotamuses. Lots of animals there are endange-
Newer hotel. Variety of room sizes, en suite or shared
red species such as the Congo peafowl, the forest ele-
bathroom. Somewhat higher standards, but exorbitant
phant, the African slender-snout and the dwarf chimpan-
prices for quality/price ratio. US $50–250.
zees. Me tropole 222
The Botanical Garden of Eala
Very basic. Nice staff. Very noisy, especially on weekends, as this is the watering hole of Mbandaka! US $35.
Located about 7km from Mbandaka, this is the third-largest botanical garden in the world. The garden, spread
Le Rocher des Ages
over 370ha, offers a tremendous range of more than
Very basic, but on the river. Lovely sunsets! US $40,
3,200 plant species. Mo n u c H Q
Lake Toumba
The Monuc has two rooms to let. Clean, with 24-hour electricity and Internet access. Not easy to get, so call
A beautiful lake in the Bikula area, near to some villages
ahead. US $40.
so you can easily visit, and with a good road!
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PROVINCE ORIENTALE
Gbadolité VIP in Gbadolité.
WHERE TO EAT
Located in the north-east, Province Orientale is the big-
You can find a variety of little local restaurants around
Kisangani. Its borders are Equateur to the west, Kasaï-
town with local dishes at lunch and dinner. The guest
Oriental to the south-west, Maniema to the south, and
houses and Monuc also serve meals.
Kivu-Nord to the south-east. The province also borders
gest region of the country and its provincial capital is
the Central African Republic and Sudan to the north and
GOING OUT
Uganda to the east. Province Orientale is the scene of the
Metropole 222
The region reflects a real ethnic diversity with four main
ongoing Ituri conflict, which has recently calmed down.
A variety of local bars. More waterfalls
sociocultural groups: Pygmies, Sudanese, Bantous and Nilotiques. Province Orientale is home to the largest concentration of Pygmies in the Ituri forests, who maintain their traditional way of life.
ENTERTAINMENT Near to Kisangani, Province Orientale offers the opportunity to admire the Wagenia floating villages and to see the Wagenia and Lokele fishermen at work.
For adventurers the Ituri forest gives visitors the opportunity to see the okapi, an indigenous animal similar to antelope and zebra.
Bordering
Sudan,
the
Garamba
National
Park
(500,000ha), listed by Unesco as a worldwide heritage site, hosts Nile rhinoceros, the last population of this rare animal. You may also find giraffes here. At Gangala na Bodio visitors can take an elephant-back excursion.
WHERE TO STAY Kisangani The hotel infrastructure is rudimentary but you can still find some accommodation. Three slightly better hotels are: Rivièra V oyageur Hellé nique
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a wild beauty with few animals. Its ochre colour and thousands of termite nests hidden under vegetation characterize the savannah.
ENTERTAINMENT Upemba National Park Spread over 1,200,000ha, this is one of the three national parks that existed before independence. The park is formed on several lakes and humid areas crossed by the Lofoï River within a grassy savannah. Visitors will find lots of diverse animal herds such as lions, leopards, elephants, antelopes and zebras.
National Park of Kundelungus Mid Range
Located 150km from Lubumbashi and spread over
Hôtel de s Chutes
within an outstanding natural environment. Short grass-
Hôtel Congo Palace
land savannah and 800m cliffs dominate the landscape.
240,000ha, the park hosts antelopes and chimpanzees
Hôtel Boyoma
Copper Mines
Hôtel Kisangani Hôtel Palm Beach
The old underground copper mines in Kiputshi are an
WHERE TO EAT
interesting and nice tourist attraction.
Here are some restaurants that you can easily find in Kisangani: Rivie ra Voyageur Hellenique Best cossas (large river shrimp) in town!
KATANGA Katanga is the southern province of the country and its regional capital is Lubumbashi. The nation’s most mineral-rich province, Katanga is often referred to as the lung of the country and is much more developed in terms of hotels, restaurants and even nightlife. The Katanga landscape is symbolized by very high plateaus peaking at 1,000m with abrupt edges where waterfalls emerge. The Lofoï waterfalls are the highest in Africa. Whereas the province was formerly a fauna-rich landscape, today it is
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eBizguides DRC
WHERE TO STAY
Belle vue
Lubumbashi
Katanga/Lubumbashi
Coin av. Mwepu et Munongo, opposite the Post Office
Tel: +243-81-5056409 / 81-8151117 In Lubumbashi you will find several quality hotels, and
In the centre of Lubumbashi, 25 apartments and 5
thanks to the revitalization of the city’s economy, this
rooms. US $20–50/night, possibility of monthly contract.
infrastructure is about to be strengthened. Le V agabond Gues t Hous e Mwamini
Small hotel with 9 bedrooms from US $90–110.
Likasi
57B Chaussée Laurent Désiré Tel: +243-99-5927077 Email: emmanuelkasiho@yahoo.fr
Hotel La Scala
Website: www.guesthousemwamini.cd
Comfortable hotel.
From US $100/night, with breakfast and wi-fi connection. Mwamini is a new guest house, right on the principal bou-
Mid Range
levard. Simple but clean rooms with friendly staff, eager to Hôtel Ma ns e l
please. Quiet place to relax after a busy day of work.
Hôtel Bagatelle Pa rk Hotel
Hôtel Trois Fois T rois
50 av. Munongo, town centre
Kolwezi
Tel: +243-99-7032330 This hotel possesses 77 air-conditioned bedrooms, suites and individual apartments. The price
Guest House
varies from US $95–165. The hotel also has a nice restau-
Tel: +243-81-4093933
rant on a patio. Short walk from the artisan market.
Kalemie Planet Hollybum 975 av. Kilela-Balanda
A decade ago Kalemie had several quality hotels but
Tel: +243-99-7030256 / 99 7029389
today the city only has a few lower-end hotels left.
Email: planethotel@ic.lubum.cd Hotel du La c
16 bedrooms, excellent dining service and a disco.
av. Lumumba, town centre, 20 air-conditioned bedrooms. Hotel-Re ka
WHERE TO EAT
696 av. Kapenda Tel: +243-99-7045132 / 81 9715390 34 comfortable bedrooms from US $40, European coo-
Lubumbashi
king and Congolese specialities. La Calebasse Hotel Karavia
78 av. Sendwe, opposite Parc Hôtel
5859 av. Lukonzokwa, Q/Golf
Tel: +243-99-7026625
Tel: +243-99-7027854 / 99-7024126
Nice Congolese specialities. Large choice of cooked vege-
1970s-style, 200 bedrooms from US $50–80, a swimming
tables accompanied by a capitaine or a tilapia, antelope
pool, a restaurant and a bar with a great view of Lubumbashi.
brochettes, chicken, beef, etc.
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LEISURE
eBizguides DRC
Le Bush Camp
Le Village
33 av. Kapwasa (Route de Munama)
Authentic Congolese food under straw huts.
Katanga, Lubumbashi Tel: +243-99-7026316 / 81-4032161
Le Pe rroquet
Email: mathildebenatar@yahoo.fr
588 av. Kasa-Vubu, Lubumbashi
This is the place in Lubumbashi where you can find the
Tel: +243-99-7022930 / 81-4073635
colonial African flavour with an outstanding reception and an elegant decoration.
Ca sa Degli Italiani
Che z Jeanne Poisson
Tel: +243-99-7025756 / 81-331157
200m from Hollybum Hotel
Typical Italian food.
2900 av. Lumumba, Cercle Italien
A unique way of cooking fish (tilipia or capitaine). La Brioche Planet Hollybum
75 Chaussée Laurent Désiré Kabila
975 av. Kilelabalanda, Lubumbashi
Lubumbashi
Tel: +243-99-7030256
Tel: +243-99-7021780 / 99 7021781
Email: planethotel@ic-lubum.cd
Patisserie with menu as well.
Refined setting, European dishes. A delight to the palate. A bit harder on the wallet.
GOING OUT
Park Hote l
Lubumbashi
av. Lomami, Lubumbashi Tel: +243-99-7032330 Email: Cth_parhhotel@yahoo.fr
In Lubumbashi people love to go out and even though during the week everything is quiet, the weekend livens up in plenty of places until the end of the night. Jungles of the DRC
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w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
eBizguides DRC Next to the Moon Located within the Hollybum Hotel, this
nightclub
opens
Friday
and
Saturday, popular with European customers.
Ok api In front of Hewa Bora Airlines office, next to Park Hôtel Lubumbashi Nice Congolese music within the oldest nightclub of the area.
La Brass erie Toni & Tony 63 av. Mzee Kabila Lubumbashi Ideally located in the centre, this is a great place to enjoy a fresh Simba. With a big screen TV and billiards.
distinct seasons, dry and rainy. The Kasaï River, the
Chez Ntemba
Kasaï Occidental basin. Kasaï’s economy mostly relies on
av. Lomami, in front of Palais de Ju stice, Lubumbashi
diamonds, with two main exploitation zones discovered
Renowned all over Congo, even down to South Africa!
in the 1910s, making the DRC the third-largest diamond
Chez Ntemba is the local club de rigeur.
producer in the world. Although these are some of the
second-biggest tributary of the Congo River, supplies the
richest geological areas in the world, they are purely Afonso Club
industrial and lack anything more than very basic infras-
In front of the train station
tructure, with poor electricity and water capacity.
Lubumbashi
ENTERTAINMENT The Copper Belt Nice mix of expat and local crowd.
Mines
Largest club in Lubumbashi. Mbuji-Mayi (industrial exploitation) and Tshikapa (manual exploitation) mines are an interesting visit to understand
GRAND KASAÏ
the economy of the country.
Kasaï is divided into two provinces, Kasaï Occidental, of
Katende I and II Falls
which the capital is Kananga, and Kasaï Oriental, of which the capital is Mbuji-Mayi. These centrally located
Another tourist opportunity not to miss if you are in this
provinces border Equateur and Province Orientale to the
special province.
north, Maniema province to the north-east, Katanga to the south-east, Angola to the south-west and Bandundu to the west. The north is distinguished by a very dense
Fwa and Mukamba Freshwater Lakes
equatorial zone and bogs where you can find hardwood trees such as the wenge and the sapeli. In this area the
The ideal place for fishing and rowing.
climate is humid and tropical. The south is covered by a savannah where the climate is more temperate, with two
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LEISURE
eBizguides DRC
WHERE TO STAY
Mbuji-Mayi
Mbuji-Mayi
Chez Nte mba
Le Tropical La Ca sa
Cargo
Le Kumbi-kumbi
Chez Tanko
L’E quinoxe
Ville de Mbuji-Mayi
Le Tanko
Tel: +243-99-99901451
Kananga
GRAND KIVU
Le Grand Hôtel
Kivu has been affected by several administrative border
Hôtel Musube
changes in the past few years. The province has recently
Le Guest House
been divided into three areas, Maniema, Kivu-Nord and
Le Ce ntre Thabor
Kivu-Sud. In its heyday, Kivu-Nord was regarded as the
Hôtel Elite
country’s tourist centre. Indeed, the province offers
Hôtel Ngimuk a
various amazing landscapes formed by the geological for-
WHERE TO EAT/GOING OUT
whole of eastern Kivu is marked by a huge volcanic
Many hotels will have restaurants, otherwise a few local
lakes shaped by several craters along the volcanoes. As a
places exist for a quick bite.
result, the area is called La Region des Grand Lacs, the
mations from the Zambezi Valley to the Red Sea. The
mountain mass, the Virunga. The region enjoys many
Big Lakes region. Markets can be so much fun!
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
eBizguides DRC Although Kivu is home to a vast array of awesome landscapes, it is also home to certain political problems and rebel fighting. Kivu-Nord is the only region in which the Congo–Rwanda conflict continues, which makes visiting the many natural wonders of the region difficult. Although the main cities are generally untouched, travelling alone outside of the populous areas is not recommended and some of the parks today should only be visited if escorted by military or government guides as a safety precaution. Ask the provincial Chambers of Commerce and Industry or the National Tourism Office for advice on these matters.
Maniema borders Province Orientale to the north, Katanga to the south, Kivu-Nord and Kivu-Sud to the east, and Kasaï Oriental to the west. Kindu is the capital of the province; it was a significant centre for gold, ivory
Kahuzi Biega National Park
and slave trading during the 19th century when Arab
Spread over 600,000ha and lush with its bamboo forests,
merchants arrived in Maniema. Arab-Swahili slave traders
it remains the only place in the world today where whole
developed an important caravan route to send all these
gorilla families are living.
commodities to Zanzibar. Since that time, the remains of Islam within the Swahili culture continue to be present in
Virunga National Park
Kindu. Africa’s oldest park, encompassing over 800,000ha. You Kivu-Nord shares borders with the Republics of Uganda
can find dormant as well as active volcanoes such as
in the east and Rwanda in the south-east. Its neighbours
Nyrangono, Nyamulagira and Visthumbi. The park is
are Province Orientale to the north and west, Kivu-Sud to
famous because of the various animal herds that visitors
the south and Maniema to the south-west.
can admire. The park boasts hippopotamuses, lions, leopards, elephants, and a huge range of antelopes and tro-
Kivu-Sud is bordered by Kivu-Nord to the north,
pical birds.
Maniema to the west, Rwanda and Burundi to the east and Maniema to the south-west.
Lake Edward
ENTERTAINMENT
Lush aquatic vegetation offering opportunities to see hippopotamuses, crocodiles, pelicans, Nile geese, as well as
Kivu Lake
a vast array of other animals.
Kivu Lake represents one of Central Africa’s treasures. It
MANIEMA
is in fact the highest lake in Africa at 1,460m, lost in the middle of the splendid Graben. Its surface is about 2,700
This Province does not offer as many tourism opportuni-
square km. The northern lake’s shores are formed by lava
ties, but the former slave markets are rather interesting
blocks going up to the volcanoes. The southern part of
to see.
the lake is mostly formed from peninsulas, especially in the Bukavu bay.
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LEISURE
eBizguides DRC
WHERE TO STAY
Hotel Ihusi On the lake
Bukavu
46 rooms Email: ihusihotel@yahoo.fr
Hotel Re side nce Bungw e Guest Hous e
av. Lumumba
City centre Orchids Safari Club
Tel: +243-99-7093167
av. kahuzi Biega
21 rooms
Email: ILAOrchids@ila-chateau.com
Email: bungwegest@yahoo.fr
22 bedrooms and a restaurant, from US $90 per night. Ideal hotel offering a great view of Kivu lake.
Goma
Kindu Because of a lack of electricity and water, hotels and restaurants provide rudimentary services.
Stella Matutina On the lake
WHERE TO EAT
Tel: +243-81-3655900 Email: marnou@hotmail.com
Kindu
Le Cha rlet
A selection of small local restaurants is available.
On the lake Tel: +243-81-3150000
Bukavu
7 bedrooms Orchids Sa fa ri Clubs Hotel Nyra
Lake Kivu, Bukavu
Town centre
Email: ILAOrchids@ila-chateau.com
Tel: +243-99-8611089
Travel Agencies
17 bedrooms Such a variety of animals exists here
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eBizguides DRC
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
TRAVEL AGENCIES Amicongo av. des Aviateurs, Immeuble Amicongo
Okapi T ra ve l
Kinshasa, Gombe
bld du 30 juin
Tel: +243-81-0587275
Tel: +243-99-9915795 / 99-9915082
Email: amicongo@ic.cd
Website: www.okapitravel.best.cd
CTS
Comexas Afrique
bld du 30 juin
15–17 av. Colonel Ebeya
Kinshasa, Gombe
Kinshasa, Gombe
Tel: +243-99-9918740 / 81-9915042
Tel: +243-99-9908920 / 81-9908919 Email: kinshasa@comexas.cd
Je ffery Travel bld du 30 juin Kinshasa, Gombe Tel: +243-81-8887777
BASIC VOCABULARY Every Congolese speaks fluent French and Lingala. French is the official language, used for written communication, and Lingala the preferred language spoken locally. The Lingala language is based on broken French slave traders used to speak to the slaves. From that time it has been kept and evolved as a local language. Lingala is only a spoken language, the written version of which is almost purely phonetic and subject to personal habits and the area in which one have grown up.
ENGLISH
LINGALA
E NGLISH
LINGALA
How are you
boni
How much is it?
oyo boni?
I am fine
malamu
It’s too expensive
ezali talo mingi
I am happy
nazali na esengo
Lower the price
kitisa talo
Please
bolimbisa
Do you speak English/French olobaka anglé/ francé
Thank you
matondo
Let’s go
tokende
I am sorry
naza na mawa
Stop
telema
My name is
nkombo na ngai “…”
Slowly
malembe
What is your name?
nkombo nayo nani?
Come here
yaka awa
Where are you from? Owuti wapi?
Help me
salisa ngai
Yes
boye
Bring
pesa
No
té
Drinking water
mayi
Some food
ndambu yabiloko
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eBizguides DRC
BASIC VOCABULARY NUMBERS
7
sambo
15
zomi na mitano
50
tuku mitano
8
mwambe
16
zomi na motoba
60
tuku motoba
70
tuku sambo
1
moko
9
libwa
17
zomi na sambo
2
mibalé
10
zomi
18
zomi na mwambe 80
3
misato
11
zomi na moko
19
zomi na libwa
90
tuku libwa
4
minei
12
zomi na mibale
20
tuku mibale
100
monkama
5
mitano
13
zomi na misato
30
tuku misato
1000
nkoto
6
motoba
14
zomi na minei
40
tuku minei
GREE TINGS Hello Goodbye Good Morning Good Evening
losako/mbote boti kala malamu mokolo elamu pokwa elamu
USEFUL WORDS Is it possible to… ? Is there…? No problem
na kokoka … ? Ezali awa… ? likambo ezali té
BAS IC VOCABULARY Where is…? When Go away I You Money Change Good / ok Everything is ok Closed
Ezali wapi…? ntango nini ? kende ngai yo mosolo bongola malamu nyonso malamu kokanga
BUS INES S Company Meeting Available / present Busy Director Ministry, Minister When does he come back? Can I speak to...?
compani bokutani kozala natango kozala mosala patron ministre Ntango nini okozonga? nakoki kosolola na… ?
COMM ON PHRASES I live at the …hotel I want to go… What is it called in Lingala? Do you speak English? I don’t speak Lingala
nafandaka na … loteli nalingi nakende… Babengaka yango nini… na Lingala? Olobaka anglé? nalobaka Lingala té
FOOD & DRINK Water Bread Coffee Milk Tea Milk, cream, sugar Meat Rice Potatoes Lemon Apple Banana Orange Hot Pepper Salt/Pepper do TIME AND SPACE Yesterday Today Tonight Tomorrow Time What time is it? Week Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Straight Left Right Stop here Far
276
tuku mwambe
mayi mapa kawa miliki ti miliki, cremi, sukali mosuni loso libenge ndimo pomi bitabé lilala pili pili mungwa/ pili pili ya moyin-
lobi lelo mpokwa lobi ngonga ngonga nini ? poso mokolo mwa poso mokolo ya eyenga mokolo ya yambo mokolo ya ibalé mokolo ya isato mokolo ya minei mokolo ya mitano liboso mpenza loboko ya mwasi loboko ya mobali telema awa mosika
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
eBizguides DRC
Top 100 Companies Achour Group Africanus Afriland First Bank (First Bank CD) Air Kasaï Air Kivu Air Tropiques Anvil Mining Services Banque Centrale du Congo Banque Commerciale du Congo (BCDC) Banque Congolaise du Commerce Extérieur (BCCE) Banque de Commerce et du Développement (BCD) Banque Internationale d'Afrique Centrale (BIAC) Banque Internationale de Crédit (BIC) BCM Congo Exploration Beltexco Borgakim Mining Bracongo Bralima Brasseries Simba (Brassimba) Bravo Air Congo British American Tobacco Congo Sarl Business Aviation Celtel Cimenterie Nationale (CINAT) Citibank Cobil Comexas Afrique Compagnie Africaine d'Aviation Compagnie de chemin de fer du Katanga Compagnie Sucrière Kwilu-Ngongo Congo Chine Télécoms (CCT) Congo Mine & Metal Congo-Étain Congo-Korea Télécom Congolaise des hydrocarbures (Cohydro) Congotex - textile CRM De Beers Entreprise minière de Kisenge Manganèse (EMKM) FILTISAF - textile Flight Express Frasabank Gécamines Global Broadband Solution Group Chanimetal Group Forrest Hewa Bora Airways INERA InterConnect Leda Mining Congo
Marsavco - margarine, savon, cosmétique Microcom Midema Mineral Mining Company Mines Advisory Group Office congolais de poste et télécommunication (OCPT) Office de la Gestion de Fret Maritime Office national des Transports Phoenix Mining Procredit Bank Raga Rambi Mining Rawbank Regideso Ridge Mining Roffe-Hi-Tech SAIT Telecom (Oasis), Service national hydraulique rural (SNHR Sintexkin - textile Société BRC Congo Developpement Société de développement industriel et minier du Congo (SODIMICO) Société de prospection et d'exploitation (SOPREX) Société de Transport urbain du Congo (STUC) Societé minière de Bakwanga (MIBA) Société minière de Tenke Fungurume (SMTF) Société minière de Tshikapa (MITSHIS) Société Nationale d’Assurance (Sonas) Société nationale d'électricité (SNEL) Société nationale des chemins de fer du Congo Socir Socituri - savon Sodefor Sodexmines Sofricom Sogetel Sominex Stanbik Bank Starcel Congo, Starnet Supercell Tabacongo - tabac Télécel Tigo (RDC) Trust Merchant Bank (TMB) Union Congolaise de Banques (UBC) Usine de panification de Kinshasa (UPAK) Vodacom Wimbi Dira Airways
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eBizguides DRC
COMPANY INDEX INVESTMENT & LEGAL FRAMEWORK AGENCE NATIONAL POUR L'INVESTISEMENT (ANAPI) ..................................................................................PAGE 51 FÉDÉRATION DES ENTREPRISES DU CONGO (FEC) ........................................................................................PAGE 51 FONDS DE PROMOTION DE L' INDUSTRIE (FPI)..............................................................................................PAGE 53
AGRICULTURE BRITISH AMERICAN TOBACCO SARL ........................................................................................................PAGE 101 COMPAGNIE SUCRIÈRE DE KWILI-NGONGO ..............................................................................................PAGE 101 MARSAVCO SARL ....................................................................................................................................PAGE 102 MIDEMA MINOTERIE DE MATADI ..............................................................................................................PAGE 102 MINOCONGO GROUP ..............................................................................................................................PAGE 102 SIFORCO ..................................................................................................................................................PAGE 106 SODEFOR ..................................................................................................................................................PAGE 106
ENERGY COBIL ......................................................................................................................................................PAGE 111 CONGO OIL ..............................................................................................................................................PAGE 112 MAGENERGY INC ....................................................................................................................................PAGE 112 PERENCO GROUP ......................................................................................................................................PAGE 113 REGIDESO ................................................................................................................................................PAGE 115 SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC CONGO ..................................................................................................................PAGE 115 SEP-CONGO ..............................................................................................................................................PAGE 118 SOCIÉTÉ NATIONALE D’ELECTRICITÉ (SNEL) ..............................................................................................PAGE 118 SOCIR ......................................................................................................................................................PAGE 119 SOCO E&P-DRC SPRL ................................................................................................................................PAGE 122
FINANCE AFRILAND FIRST BANK ..............................................................................................................................PAGE 126 BANQUE CENTRALE DU CONGO ..............................................................................................................PAGE 127 BANQUE COMMERCIALE DU CONGO ......................................................................................................PAGE 128 BANQUE CONGOLAISE SARL ....................................................................................................................PAGE 129 BANQUE INTERNATIONALE POUR L’AFRIQUE AU CONGO (BIAC) ..............................................................PAGE 130 DELOITTE AND TOUCHE CONGO SPRL ......................................................................................................PAGE 131 GRAS SAVOYE RDC ..................................................................................................................................PAGE 131 MASTER TEAM CONSULTING ....................................................................................................................PAGE 132 RAWBANK ................................................................................................................................................PAGE 132 SOFICOM ..................................................................................................................................................PAGE 134
278
w w w. e b i z g u i d e s . c o m
eBizguides DRC
COMPANY INDEX SOCIÉTÉ NATIONALE D’ASSURANCE (SONAS) ..........................................................................................PAGE 135 TRUST MERCHANT BANK SARL ................................................................................................................PAGE 136
INDUSTRY & TRADE ACHOUR GROUP ......................................................................................................................................PAGE 143 BELTEXCO ................................................................................................................................................PAGE 143 BRALIMA ..................................................................................................................................................PAGE 144 CFAO ........................................................................................................................................................PAGE 145 CONGO-FUTUR SARL ................................................................................................................................PAGE 146 DOVER COSMETICS ..................................................................................................................................PAGE 147 GHANDOUR ..............................................................................................................................................PAGE 148 GROUPE BLATTNER ELWYN (GBE) ............................................................................................................PAGE 148 GROUPE FORREST ....................................................................................................................................PAGE 149 GROUPE ORGAMAN ................................................................................................................................PAGE 150 MAFRICOM ..............................................................................................................................................PAGE 150 SAFRICAS..................................................................................................................................................PAGE 153
MINING ANVIL MINING ..........................................................................................................................................PAGE 158 ASHANTI GOLDFIELDS KILO SARL ............................................................................................................PAGE 159 BOSS MINING............................................................................................................................................PAGE 159 CHEMAF SARL ..........................................................................................................................................PAGE 162 CS COBIT ..................................................................................................................................................PAGE 163 DRC COPPER COBALT PROJECT (DCP) ......................................................................................................PAGE 167 EMAXON SPRL ..........................................................................................................................................PAGE 167 FIRST QUANTUM MINERALS LTD ..............................................................................................................PAGE 169 GÉNÉRALE DE CARRIÈRES ET DES MINES (GECAMINES) ............................................................................PAGE 171 SOCIÉTÉ MINIÈRIE DE BAKWANGA (MIBA) ................................................................................................PAGE 171 RUASHI MINING PROJECT ........................................................................................................................PAGE 176 SOCIÉTÉ POUR LE TRAITEMENT DU TERRIL DE LUBUMBASHI (STL) ............................................................PAGE 176 TENKE FUNGURUME MINING ....................................................................................................................PAGE 179
PUBLIC SERVICES CENTRE MEDICAL INTERNATIONAL ..........................................................................................................PAGE 183 CENTRE MEDICAL DE KINSHASA (CMK) ....................................................................................................PAGE 183 BIAMBA-MARIE MUTOMBO HOSPITAL ......................................................................................................PAGE 184 SHALINA ..................................................................................................................................................PAGE 184 UNIVERSITÉ DE KINSHASA ........................................................................................................................PAGE 187
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eBizguides DRC
COMPANY INDEX UNIVERSITÉ DE LUBUMBASHI ....................................................................................................................PAGE 187 ZENUFA LABORATORIES ............................................................................................................................PAGE 188
PUBLIC WORKS CHANIMETAL ............................................................................................................................................PAGE 194 CILU-CIMENTERIE DE LUKULA ..................................................................................................................PAGE 194 CINAT-CIMENTERIE NATIONALE ................................................................................................................PAGE 195 GÉNÉRAL CONSTRUCT ..............................................................................................................................PAGE 196 MIKE PROMOTION - STEVER CONSTRUCT ................................................................................................PAGE 197 MOBIMETAL..............................................................................................................................................PAGE 197
TOURISM BOTANICAL GARDEN OF EALA..................................................................................................................PAGE 206 BOTANICAL GARDEN OF KISANTU ............................................................................................................PAGE 206 GRAND HOTEL KINSHASA ........................................................................................................................PAGE 207 HOTEL MEMLING ......................................................................................................................................PAGE 208 INSTITUTE CONGOLAIS POUR LA CONSERVATION DE LA NATURE (ICCN) ..................................................PAGE 208 LOLA YA BONOBO ....................................................................................................................................PAGE 210 RÉSIDENCE HOTELIÈRE SOFIA ....................................................................................................................PAGE 210 VIRUNGA NATIONAL PARK........................................................................................................................PAGE 211
TRANSPORT AFRICAN INTERNATIONAL TRADERS (AFRITRANS) ......................................................................................PAGE 216 AGETRAF SDV ..........................................................................................................................................PAGE 217 CAA COMPAGNIE AFRICAINE D’AVIATION................................................................................................PAGE 218 CELTEL ......................................................................................................................................................PAGE 219 COMEXAS AFRIQUE ..................................................................................................................................PAGE 220 CYBERNET ................................................................................................................................................PAGE 220 GENERALCO ............................................................................................................................................PAGE 221 GLOBAL BROADBAND SOLUTIONS ............................................................................................................PAGE 222 ONATRA ..................................................................................................................................................PAGE 222 SNCC - SOCIETE NATIONALE DES CHEMINS DE FER DU CONGO ..............................................................PAGE 224 TIGO ........................................................................................................................................................PAGE 225 TRANS AIR CARGO ..................................................................................................................................PAGE 226
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