DFID Africa Director discusses DRC plans with President Kabila

18 March 2008
 

Last week Dave Fish, DFID Director for East and Central Africa, was in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Mr Fish met with President Kabila and key members of the Government and the international community to consult on DFID’s business plan and support over the next three years. The President said he was grateful for DFID plans and that what would really matter were results.

Mr Fish held a joint press conference with the Minister of Plan, Olivier Kamitatu, to announce an increase in DFID funding to DRC for the next three years. Over this period DFID expects to provide £300m of assistance to DRC increasing from £70m in 2008/9 to £100m and then £130m in the following two years. This represents an increase of £90m over the period against previously announced plans.

At the Press Conference Mr Fish said:

“The Government of DRC has made clear the need for additional support from donors in line with the needs and challenges in DRC. We have heard this message. Our increase in funding over the next three years demonstrates the UK Government’s determination to respond positively, and to help the Government and people of DRC to reduce poverty and sustain peace.”

Mr Fish met jointly with the Minister of Public Works and the Chinese Ambassador and agreed to work with China – who are planning multi-billion dollar investments in DRC – on the environmental and social impacts of roads investments. Mr Fish also had dinner with the Minister of Education and key donors to discuss what we need to do to ensure 1 million extra children are in school by the start of the academic year in September.

During his visit Mr Fish launched DFID’s Democracy and Accountability programme, which aims to reinforce DRC’s democracy, building on the success of the 2006 elections. We will provide £60m over five years and our funding will include support to the electoral commission, local elections, parliament and decentralisation.