Representing the Fédération des Entreprises du Congo (FEC), and at the same time a committed player in the Congolese entrepreneurial ecosystem, Lionel Kabeya took part this Thursday, October 20, 2024, in the inauguration of the Pan-African Data Center named Silikin village.
In his address, Lionel Kabeya delivered a poignant speech on the crucial importance of the Startup Act in the Democratic Republic of Congo, recalling the need to take measures to implement Ordinance-Law no. 22/030 of September 08, 2022 on the promotion of entrepreneurship and startups. This ordinance was adopted in the hope of creating an environment conducive to the emergence of national champions. Unfortunately, two years after its signature, this law remains a dead letter.
Retracing his career path, Lionel Kabeya spoke of the many challenges facing Congolese entrepreneurs.
“Among these challenges are limited access to financing, complex administrative procedures and lack of networks. Difficulties that are holding back the development of many promising initiatives”, he enumerated, before
before calling for urgent action.
“I therefore appeal to the public authorities, to players in the ecosystem and to all Congolese to ensure that the Startup Act is finally implemented. Because this law is an essential lever for creating jobs. Startups are engines of growth and employment. It will also foster innovation. New technologies, new products and services to improve everyone’s lives”, he added.
This expert is of the opinion that this creation will also enhance the country’s attractiveness. A dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem attracts foreign investors and strengthens the DRC’s international reputation.
Untapped potential
Lionel Kaveya also pointed out that the DRC has immense entrepreneurial potential, with almost 600,000 SMEs by 2022. However, this figure is still well below that of Nigeria, which has over 35 million SMEs.
“The benefits of a Startup Act are not limited to startups. It’s a virtuous circle that benefits everyone: job creation, social impact, improving the daily lives of entrepreneurs and citizens alike. The Startup Act represents a unique opportunity for the DRC to strengthen its economic fabric and become a major player in African innovation. It’s time to turn promises into reality and give Congolese entrepreneurs the means to succeed. “To Pesa Startup Act Chance”, he asserted.
Startup Acts are new, comprehensive legal instruments designed to encourage the creation and development of startups by taking into account their specific needs.
AGNES KAYEMBE