In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the African Development Bank (AfDB) is accelerating the transformation of infrastructure and improving access to basic social services. The initiative is expected to benefit more than 19 million people by enhancing market access, increasing the availability of agricultural products, strengthening food security, and supporting mobility and economic activity.
Three projects financed by the Bank are focused on rehabilitating road infrastructure, enhancing air safety, and improving access to basic services. During a field visit conducted by the Bank and DRC authorities between 5 and 19 May 2025, visible progress was observed, particularly in the extension of the Mbuji-Mayi runway, aimed at transforming it into a hub that meets international standards.
Approximately 85% of the 320-metre runway at Mbuji-Mayi has already been rehabilitated. The new tarmac is 95% complete, while the ramp, service road, and Runway End Safety Areas (RESA) are between 70% and 75% finished. Critical technical infrastructure, including the control tower, power plant, fire station, and lighting system, are also nearing completion.
At Kisangani-Bangoka International Airport, aircraft movement areas, taxiways, and the tarmac have been fully rehabilitated, and two turn pads have been installed.
To further enhance air safety, six DVOR/DME radio navigation systems have been deployed at airports in Goma, Mbuji-Mayi, Kindu, Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, and Mbandaka. Additionally, eight VHF radio channels have been installed at various secondary airports to improve aeronautical communication. These upgrades, coupled with capacity-building for technical personnel, have significantly reduced the number of air accidents in the DRC, from an average of ten per year to just one.
The project also includes training for Régie des Voies Aériennes (RVA) staff, covering air safety and airbase operations, maintenance techniques, and project management. Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) inspectors are also receiving specialised training.
This air transport sector improvement effort forms part of the second phase of the Priority Air Safety Project (PPSA2).
The PPSA was initiated in the early 2000s following a diagnostic review of the DRC’s air transport sub-sector. With the support of the AfDB, Phase I of the project was launched in 2010, funded by an ADF grant of UA 88.6 million. This phase focused on infrastructure upgrades at Ndjili, Lubumbashi, and Kisangani airports, installation of air navigation aids, and human capacity development.
Phase II, developed in 2018, builds on the results and lessons of Phase I. Its objective is to further strengthen air transport safety, security, reliability, and affordability, enhancing both domestic and international connectivity. Key components include the rehabilitation of airport infrastructure in Kindu, Kisangani, and Mbuji-Mayi; procurement of air navigation equipment; technical training for CAA and RVA personnel; and strategic studies to support the development of the national aviation sector.
The implementation period for PPSA2 was initially set from February 2019 to December 2022, with a total estimated cost of USD 120.56 million (excluding taxes and duties).
