Author: Congo Times

A Diplomatic Endeavor to Rescue a Nation’s Memory In a concerted effort to safeguard invaluable historical documents, a bilateral mission consisting of experts from both Congo and Switzerland convenes in Pointe-Noire, Congo’s economic epicenter. This collaboration is spearheaded by Brice Isinove Owabira, Director of the National Archives and Documentation Centre, and Professor Alexander Keese, a historian from the University of Geneva. The mission is a continuation of expeditions undertaken in 2017 and 2024, which were instrumental in preserving over 25,000 documents of Middle Congo from severe degradation. Chronicles of the Past: 1960 to 2000 The undertaking focuses on the archives…

Historic Trade Milestone The trade relationship between China and Africa has reached a historical peak with commerce totaling a remarkable $134.16 billion from January to May 2025. This figure represents a 12.4% increase over the same period last year, as announced by China’s Ambassador to Ghana, Tong Defa, during a recent press briefing in Accra on June 19. China’s longstanding position as Africa’s leading trade partner for the sixteenth consecutive year reflects the strength of this economic alliance despite a longstanding structural imbalance. Surging Chinese Exports According to data from China’s General Administration of Customs, exports from China to African…

A Celebration of Cultural Heritage In the spirit of World Music Day on June 21, the Kouilou Regional Committee of Traditional Ensembles (Cretk) orchestrated a vibrant musical event at the cultural hub, Le Mbongui, located in the Tchimbambouka district of Pointe-Noire. This celebration resonated with the rich sounds of traditional music and drew enthusiasts and cultural leaders alike, cementing the importance of music as a unifying force. Among the distinguished attendees were Aurelien Kaya, socio-cultural advisor to the Ngoyo municipal authority; Frédéric Pambou, honorary president of the Loango Civilization Study Center; and Régine Goma, coordinator of local civil organizations. The…

The Persistent Shadows of Apartheid In a Cape Flats home, a father’s sorrow is etched into the bullet-riddled walls—an enduring legacy of violence that stains the region. The tragedies that have visited Devon Africa’s family illustrate a broader sociopolitical failure, rooted deeply in the displacement caused by apartheid. This reshuffling isolated non-white communities, entrapping them in cycles of poverty and gang violence. A Stride Toward Peace Despite the formidable odds, individuals like Pastor Craven Engel strive to mediate in gang disputes. His approach prioritizes mediation and community engagement over sheer force, attempting to dismantle the dynasty of violence with dialogue…

A Strategic Move Towards Enhanced Governance On June 24, in a significant diplomatic ceremony held in Brazzaville, Gilbert Mokoki, Minister of State Control, Public Service Quality, and Anti-Corruption efforts, received the finalized Integrated Public Governance Framework document. Adama-Dian Barry, representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), handed over the document, emphasizing that the resilience of a state hinges on robust public services which underpin stability and public trust. The Blueprint for a Resilient State-Citizen Contract This governance tool, crafted collaboratively by the UN agency and national institutions, is envisioned to recalibrate the social contract between the state and its…

Colonial Roots of a Shared Name The existence of two nations both named ‘Congo’ has its origins deeply embedded in the colonial history of Central Africa. The Republic of the Congo, with its capital in Brazzaville, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, centered in Kinshasa, owe their namesake to the Congo River which traverses the heart of the continent. Their histories diverged primarily due to colonial partitions imposed by European powers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The French colonized what is today known as the Republic of the Congo, whilst the Belgians laid claim to the…

The Geopolitical Landscape The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains a sprawling nation of contrast. It is both enriched by vast natural resources and plagued by enduring instability. The nation holds nearly half of Africa’s forest resources and is a global leader in cobalt production, essential to the tech industry. Yet, its geopolitical landscape is perilous, shaped by historical colonial legacies and ongoing regional conflicts (United Nations report, September 2023). Resource Wealth and Economic Potential Congo’s resource wealth suggests a potential for high prosperity. The mining sector is pivotal, with cobalt and copper leading exports, attracting significant foreign investment. However,…

A Strategic Partnership in the Making The recent agreement signed on June 23 between Mali and Russia marks a significant milestone in the diplomatic narrative of both nations. Under the auspices of President Vladimir Putin and Colonel Assimi Goïta, these agreements aim to foster economic collaboration, with a notable emphasis on nuclear energy, highlighting the strategic interests guiding their relationship. The Role of Nuclear Energy in Bilateral Ties The nuclear energy agreement, cornerstone of the recent accords, underscores Russia’s expertise in nuclear technology and Mali’s pursuit of sustainable energy solutions. Such a partnership not only facilitates technological transfer but also…

Ethiopia Seeks Glory as East Africa’s FDI Champion In a strategic diplomatic maneuver, Ethiopia is poised to attract foreign direct investments (FDI) nearing $4 billion in 2024, as indicated by the latest World Investment Report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). This forecast marks a significant 22% increase in FDI compared to previous years, positioning Ethiopia as East Africa’s frontrunner in attracting external capital. Strategic Reforms Fueling Investment Surge Ethiopia’s rise in the FDI league table can be primarily attributed to comprehensive reforms across various sectors. The government has embarked on transformative policies that liberalize the…

A New Era in Djiboutian Administration On June 23, Djibouti’s President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh inaugurated the new premises of the Ministry of Energy, responsible for Natural Resources. Located in the strategic Plateau du Serpent district, this state-of-the-art complex replaces the city’s historic railway station. This infrastructural evolution is more than a physical transformation; it symbolizes Djibouti’s commitment to upgrading its administrative capabilities to meet the demands of a rapidly developing nation. Strategic Importance of the New Location Strategically positioned at the heart of the capital, the complex not only enhances accessibility for governmental operations but also reflects the country’s multifaceted…