DRC: Establishment of a structure to strengthen economic and financial information
Congolese President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo has taken a major step in the economic and financial management of the Democratic Republic of Congo by signing an ordinance on August 12, 2024, to create the Department of Economic and Financial Intelligence (DIEF) within the National Intelligence Agency (ANR). This ambitious initiative demonstrates a strong commitment to transparency, economic security, and the fight against corruption—issues that often hinder the country’s development.
The DIEF, tasked with the collection, investigation, exploitation, and dissemination of economic and financial intelligence, embodies the government’s determination to strengthen oversight of strategic sectors of the Congolese economy. The creation of this department addresses an urgent need to monitor and secure critical areas such as energy, telecommunications, information technology, cyberspace, and the management of public funds.
In addition to enhancing economic security, the DIEF will play a crucial role in combating fraudulent practices that weigh heavily on the national economy. Its mission includes the verification and control of capital flows, banking and non-banking transactions, as well as mobile payments and virtual currencies. This proactive approach enables the detection and prevention of fraud, tax evasion, and embezzlement, contributing to better management of natural resources and strategic products.
The presidential ordinance also provides for the establishment of a central administration for the DIEF, composed of three specialized directorates: the Directorate of Economic Intelligence, the Directorate of Investments, Investigations, and Anti-Fraud, and the Directorate of Economic and Financial Studies and Planning. This well-thought-out structure ensures effective coordination of efforts to monitor and secure the country’s economic interests.
By taking this initiative, President Tshisekedi demonstrates his determination to place the Congolese economy under close scrutiny, ensuring rigorous management of public finances and enhanced protection of strategic sectors. The DIEF emerges as an indispensable tool for strengthening the DRC’s economic sovereignty, while sending a clear message to those who might attempt to undermine the country’s economic stability: the management of Congo’s economic resources will now be subject to heightened vigilance.
This move is commendable, as it paves the way for more transparent, effective, and responsible management of the Congolese economy. The DIEF represents a significant step toward consolidating the rule of law in economic matters and promoting sustainable development that benefits all Congolese citizens.
