DRC Defence Minister Seeks More Funds to Modernize FARDC

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is preparing a new four-year military programme aimed at turning the FARDC into a better-trained, better-equipped and more professional force.

Vice-Prime Minister and Defence Minister Guy Kabombo Muadiamvita presented senior lawmakers with an assessment of the armed forces on Monday, July 20. The meeting brought together the defence and security committees of the National Assembly and the Senate at the Palais du Peuple in Kinshasa.

Kabombo’s message was direct: the army cannot provide a lasting response to the country’s security threats while it remains weakened by gaps in training, equipment and infrastructure.

He therefore asked Parliament to support the proposed Military Programming Law for 2027–2030 and ensure that the plan receives adequate, predictable funding.

What is the proposed military programming law?

The legislation is designed to establish the FARDC’s priorities over four years and connect those priorities to a multi-year financing plan.

Instead of relying mainly on emergency spending whenever a crisis develops, the government wants a legal framework that allows it to plan military training, equipment purchases, infrastructure and operations in advance.

The bill is built around six main programmes:

0. General administration and the welfare and management of military personnel

1. Military instruction, training and research