DRC Launches $46.5 Million Ubangi River Basin Programme

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has initiated the active phase of a $46.5 million regional programme designed to transform the Ubangi River basin into a hub for cross-border trade, food security, and economic growth in Central Africa.

The initiative, known by the French acronym PREDIRE, was officially launched in the DRC on 16 February 2026. The programme is backed by the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group and seeks to revitalize a river basin that has remained largely underdeveloped despite its strategic importance.

Scope and Geographic Focus

The Ubangi River is the main right-bank tributary of the Congo River, which is the second-largest river basin in the world. The river stretches over 2,272 kilometres and flows between the Republic of Congo, the Central African Republic (CAR), and the DRC.

Within the DRC, the PREDIRE programme specifically targets three provinces: Nord-Ubangi, Sud-Ubangi, and Mongala. These regions have historically struggled with weak infrastructure, persistent poverty, and increasing pressures from climate change.

Programme Objectives and Expected Impact

The $46.5 million investment is directed toward several key developmental pillars intended to stimulate the regional economy. The programme focuses on the following areas:

• Improvement of water infrastructure
• Enhancement of river navigation to facilitate trade
• Support for agriculture to improve food security
• Development of climate resilience strategies

Officials expect the programme to benefit approximately 2.4 million people. The initiative is projected to create 3,400 jobs, with a specific emphasis on providing opportunities for youth and women.

Regional Cooperation and Strategic Context

The launch of PREDIRE in the DRC mirrors a parallel initiative occurring in the Central African Republic. Together, these efforts are intended to create a cross-border development corridor, fostering stronger economic ties and trade between the neighboring nations.

The project aims to turn the Ubangi River basin into an engine of economic growth for Central Africa, addressing decades of neglect in the region’s infrastructure.