• DRC and France launch €50 million project to modernize Boma’s infrastructure
  
• Initiative combines €40 million loan and €10 million grant for sustainable development
  
• Program to upgrade roads, services, and facilities benefiting 5,000 women

DRC authorities and the French Development Agency (AFD) have launched a 50 million-euro (58.4 million-dollar) project to modernize urban infrastructure in Boma, a city in Kongo Central province, and strengthen its climate resilience.

The initiative follows two financing agreements signed on March 14, 2025, between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and France through AFD. The package includes a 40 million-euro loan and a 10 million-euro grant to support Boma’s digital modernization and sustainable urban development program.

AFD’s country director in the DRC, Hervé Conan, said the project aims to “revitalize the city, enhance its appeal, and test an integrated pilot model for a sustainable and resilient urban area that could be replicated elsewhere in the country.”

He said Boma was chosen because of its former status as the national capital, its strategic location, and the project’s synergy with other AFD-funded activities in the region.

The project includes urban improvement works, the development of a citywide spatial planning strategy, upgrades to roads and municipal services, and training programs for local stakeholders. The 10 million-euro grant, managed by Expertise France, will finance technical assistance and the rehabilitation or construction of several public facilities.

These include a Youth Center, a sports complex and a future Women’s Center designed to support women’s economic and social empowerment.

The program is expected to restore essential infrastructure, expand access to urban services, support local economic activity and raise incomes for at least 5,000 women, while strengthening governance and planning capacities.

National oversight is provided by the Ministry of Spatial Planning, and the project is implemented through an independent administrative and financial project management unit reporting to the Ministry of Finance. Local coordination is carried out by the National Territorial Development Agency and the Boma city council.

Boaz Kabeya (Bankable)