Revamping the Global Compact Network in the DRC.

In a significant step towards revamping activities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Africa Head of the United Nations Global Compact, Herve Lado, has held pivotal discussions with key business entities in the country. The discussions conducted with the Federation of Enterprises of Congo (FEC) and the Franco-Congolese Chamber of Commerce, aim to reinvigorate the relations with these key organizations to enhance the integration of sustainable principles and values into business practices and strategies. The discussions were held during a mission visit from 11 to 16 February by Hervé Lado, who lauded the upcoming partnerships as catalysts for driving positive change in the DRC's business landscape.

In addition, Herve Lado engaged in various meetings with stakeholders during his visit. A breakfast session hosted by Mrs. Samura Angele, the Ambassador of the Netherlands in Kinshasa, brought together the Board of Directors of the DRC Network, where the Netherlands' support for the DRC Network was highlighted as instrumental in the fight against corruption in business.

Furthermore, fruitful exchanges were held with Mrs. Roxane de Bilderling, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to Kinshasa, and other officials, exploring avenues to enhance corporate sustainability in the DRC. Special focus was given to supporting young entrepreneurs and SMEs, as emphasized in discussions with FEC President and CEO and the President of the Franco-Congolese Chamber of Commerce.

During the visit, Herve Lado also participated in discussions with the Global Compact business participants in the DRC outlining the program of activities for 2024, with a spotlight on the "Forward Faster" campaign aimed at accelerating the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) over the next seven years.

As a culmination of the visit, the Board of the Global Compact Network DRC appointed Mrs. Jessica WEBE as the new Executive Director, signaling a fresh chapter in expanding the Global Compact’s activities in the country. The appointment underscores the commitment of the United Nations Global Compact to enhance collaboration with local stakeholders to drive positive change and foster sustainable development in the Democratic Republic of Congo.