As the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) marks its 65th anniversary of independence from Belgium, the country is once again grappling with the challenges that have long plagued its development. The milestone has reignited a heated debate among Congolese citizens, policymakers, and international observers about the nation's progress, security situation, and the capacity of the state to provide basic services to its people. Despite significant natural resources, the DRC remains one of the poorest countries in the world, with widespread corruption, insecurity, and infrastructure deficits hindering economic growth and stability. As the country looks to the future, experts and leaders will be scrutinizing the government's performance and seeking answers to the question: what does independence truly mean for the DRC?
The DRC’s independence anniversary renews debate over progress, security and state capacity.
