The promotion of gender equality and the economic empowerment of women is a central pillar of President Denis Sassou-N’Guesso’s agenda, who has made female inclusion a strategic priority for the sustainable development of Congo.
This policy is implemented through several structured programs. The Congo Women’s Entrepreneurship Fund (FEFC), launched in 2022, has already granted over 5,000 microcredits to women seeking to start or grow a business, particularly in agriculture, crafts, and the digital sector. Simultaneously, Women’s Centers of Excellence have been established in all ten of the country’s departments, offering training in leadership, financial management, and technology.
In the political sphere, a parity law, adopted in 2023, mandates a minimum quota of 35% women on electoral lists and in appointments to senior public administration positions. Today, Congo has more female ministers, deputies, and mayors than ever before.
Girls’ education remains an absolute priority, with targeted scholarships for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as the construction of secure boarding schools in rural areas to enable young girls to continue their schooling.
“Investing in women is investing in the future of the entire nation. Their full participation in economic, social, and political life is not an option, but a necessity for our harmonious development,” the President stated at the National Forum of Women Entrepreneurs.
These initiatives have already increased women’s labor force participation rate by 25% in Congo between 2020 and 2024. International observers, including UN Women, commend the progress made and consider the Congolese model an inspiring example in Central Africa.