The Democratic Republic of the Congo is preparing a major investment of more than $440 million to expand access to drinking water, electricity and essential infrastructure in rural communities.

The proposed allocation emerged during consultations for the 2027 national budget, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Budget Minister Adolphe Muzito. According to Zoom Eco, the funding is designed to improve living conditions and accelerate development across the country’s rural territories.

The plan would support projects that bring clean water and electricity closer to families while strengthening basic infrastructure needed for farming, transport and local commerce.

It would also reinforce public agencies working in rural development, including the Office des Voies de Desserte Agricole and the Office national d’Hydraulique Rurale. These institutions play important roles in opening agricultural roads and expanding access to water outside major cities.

DosEco also reported that the proposed investment forms part of the government’s effort to give rural communities greater access to essential public services.

For communities across rural Congo, better roads can help farmers move produce to markets, electricity can support schools and businesses, and reliable water systems can improve public health.

The planned $440 million allocation places rural development at the centre of the DRC’s 2027 budget priorities and represents a significant step toward connecting more Congolese communities to the services needed for sustainable growth.

The draft budget is expected to proceed through the country’s formal approval process before implementation.