Democratic Republic of Congo
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – with a territory the
size of western Europe – borders nine countries in central Africa.
It's home to almost half of all Africa’s forests as well as to
extraordinary mineral wealth that could make it the most prosperous
country on the continent. The potential is breathtaking, but the
challenges are huge.
Decades of misrule and two civil wars have devastated the country
and most of the people are desperately poor. As many as five million
are thought to have died unnecessarily since the start of the civil
wars in the late 1990s. The country also suffers acutely from a lack
of infrastructure, with less than 700 kilometres of useable paved
roads. Yet there is hope. Following the 2006 democratic elections,
the first for 40 years, the DRC now has the opportunity to escape
the cycle of conflict and suffering and realise its potential.
Find out more in Key facts: DR Congo.
DFID’s main objectives in the Democratic Republic of Congo are:
- building a capable and accountable state
- delivering a peace dividend for poor people
- reducing the remaining violent conflict and its impact.
How we've helped
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When corrupt tax collectors come calling, Mwanso Walimbwa and his fellow farmers know exactly what to say...
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In DRC, most trade is done by bicycle, because the few roads that exist are too treacherous for cars and trucks. Now, by opening up new and better roads, DFID is helping to boost the transportation of goods across this vast country.
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In 2000, Oxfam, funded by DFID, constructed 37 water pumps in one of the most disadvantaged areas of Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
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... More real life stories |
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