Like most economies, the DRC's economy continues to suffer the negative effects of the war in Ukraine, with inflation expected to exceed 12% by the end of the year, compared to an initial target of 7%. The cost of living remains high and is fueled by the rising prices of imported necessities and the security situation in the country's east.

For example, some necessities and local foodstuffs (e.g., corn) have become increasingly scarce on the Goma market since the intensification of fighting in the territories of Rutshuru and Nyiragongo between the FARDC and the M23 rebels. The consequence of this situation is a surge in market prices: a 25 kg bag of cornmeal that used to cost 21 USD has now risen to 30 USD. A bag of embers, commonly called "Ndobo," used to cost 27 USD but now around 60 USD. In addition, transport cost has increased from 30 to 50 or even 60 US dollars since the last occupation of Kiwanja, in the territory of Rutshuru, where the cost of a car ticket has risen in transport agencies using the Butembo-Goma road and vice versa.

To preserve the population's purchasing power, the government has taken measures to encourage household consumption, including the suspension of VAT on the import of essential goods.

In this context of uncertainty and decline in purchasing power, Target Sarl interviewed a representative sample of 1540 Congolese on the issue of purchasing power: perceived level of purchasing power, priority actions to be taken by the government to improve living standards and expectations for the year 2023.

Date: December 16, 2022,
Time: 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Seating for the webinar is limited, so reserve yours now by registering: here

Wednesday, November 30, 2022 - 16:33