The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has advanced a $491.3 million financing package intended to support women entrepreneurs, small businesses, education, healthcare and nutrition programmes.

The package consists of $475 million in loans and $16.3 million in grants from the International Development Association, the World Bank institution that provides concessional financing to lower-income countries.

The relevant texts were examined during the 96th meeting of the Council of Ministers, chaired by President Félix Tshisekedi. Finance Minister Doudou Fwamba presented the draft ordinance-laws authorising the ratification of the loan agreements and the ordinance approving the two grants.

$200 million for women entrepreneurs and small businesses

The first allocation provides $200 million in additional financing for TRANSFORME, a programme supporting women entrepreneurs and micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.

The project is designed to help businesses strengthen their operations, improve competitiveness and contribute to economic transformation and employment.

For Congolese women who face difficulties accessing financing, business services and formal markets, the programme could create new opportunities to establish or expand their enterprises.

Another $200 million for education

A second $200 million loan is intended for additional financing under the Emergency Equity and System Strengthening in Education Project, commonly known as PERSE.

The programme aims to improve access to education and reinforce the quality and resilience of the Congolese school system.