For the first time in its history, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is preparing to borrow directly on international financial markets. A $750 million eurobond is in preparation. Behind this figure lies a major turning point for the Congolese economy, but also considerable challenges.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is preparing to cross a historic threshold. The government has announced its intention to raise $750 million through its first eurobond issuance, a sovereign bond aimed at international investors. The operation is planned for April 2026. Initially, the ambition was higher. In August 2025, the Council of Ministers authorized a eurobond program of up to $1.5 billion. But faced with conditions on international financial markets, the authorities have opted for a cautious approach: start with an initial tranche of $750 million, with the possibility of returning later with other issuances.
“The Minister of Finance presented the note on the launch by the Democratic Republic of the Congo of a first Eurobond issuance on the international market, with a macroeconomic situation characterized by stability in domestic prices and the exchange rate, resilience of economic activity, as well as a sovereign credit rating favorable for attracting potential financial investors, with stable outlooks, respectively, from the rating agencies. Standard & Poor’s tells us our country therefore possesses the necessary levers to take this path in order to finance its development projects.”
The funds raised will be used to finance priority infrastructure projects, particularly in energy, transport, and national connectivity. The government is highlighting a project portfolio estimated at around $3 billion, aligned with the 2024-2028 Action Program. To convince investors, the DRC is promoting its macroeconomic strengths: inflation controlled around 2%, one of the lowest debt-to-GDP ratios in Africa, growth driven by the mining sectors, particularly copper and gold. These indicators explain the interest already shown by several major international investors.
“The Minister of Finance indicated that this approach is sustainable for our economy given its financial landscape, which shows significant borrowing margins whose utilization could allow for addressing major development priorities. It should be noted here that to date, our country still has a ratio of public debt to GDP that is far from the convergence norm of the SADC sub-region.”
This operation is not without risks. The DRC remains a first-time issuer with no track record on international bond markets. Aware of these challenges, the government is surrounding itself with strong partners. The operation is expected to be led by Citigroup, with support from Rawbank, and accompanied by Rothschild & Co and White & Case for financial and legal structuring.