In a significant step toward lasting peace and inclusive development, the United Nations and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) unveiled a new Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (CCDD) for 2025–2029 on Thursday, July 24. The launch event took place in the main hall of MONUSCO headquarters in Ngaliema and brought together a broad coalition of stakeholders including government officials, civil society leaders, private sector actors, academics, and international partners.
The CCDD 2025–2029 marks a fundamental shift in approach.
Rather than addressing only the symptoms of instability, the new framework is designed to tackle the historical, political, economic, and social root causes that have long fueled conflict across the country.
“This framework is the result of a rigorous process,” said Bruno Le Marquis, the UN Resident Coordinator in the DRC. “It stems from our common country analysis in 2023 and a series of strategic planning workshops held between March and June 2024.”
The plan is built around four strategic pillars:
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A fair and job-creating economy that encourages responsible investment and strengthens national production across all provinces.
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State authority and governance, with an emphasis on institutional modernization, access to justice, and the protection of citizens.
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Social investment, focusing on improved education, healthcare, water access, sanitation, and social safety nets.
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Ecological transition, integrating environmental protection into policy and promoting responsible use of natural resources.
Le Marquis highlighted five key outcomes the framework aims to achieve: expanding decent employment, reinforcing the rule of law, improving security and justice, ensuring access to basic social services, and fostering sustainable environmental governance.
Celestin Kabombo, Secretary General for International Cooperation, acknowledged the challenge of financing the plan amid shrinking global aid budgets.
“We must work with what we have,” he said, “and focus on achieving real impact for the populations we serve.”
Despite funding gaps, the United Nations and the Congolese government reaffirmed their commitment to transforming the country through coordinated action and evidence-based planning—offering renewed hope for millions in one of Africa’s most resource-rich yet conflict-affected nations.
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