Poor in an oil-rich country: Republic of Congo’s youth hope for change In the bustling markets of Pointe-Noire, the economic heart of the Republic of Congo, the early morning hours are filled with the sounds of commerce. Amid the crowded stalls and street vendors, Romain Tchicaya sells medicines without a license, navigating a struggling economy where basic goods grow increasingly unaffordable. His story mirrors that of many young Congolese, who face a stark contrast between the country’s oil wealth and their daily realities. Tchicaya, 37, holds a degree in management but found himself without stable employment after university. “We are told the country is rich in oil, but I don’t see that wealth in my daily life,” he said. The city of Pointe-Noire, once known as “Ponton la Belle,” now struggles with crumbling infrastructure, flooded streets, and a lack of basic services. For Tchicaya, the gap between rhetoric and reality is glaring. Similar challenges face Brice Makaya, a 40-year-old computer science graduate who has never secured a stable job. Without income, he lives in a church, praying for a future that remains uncertain. “I’m still underhoused at my age and have no prospects,” he said. His situation reflects a broader crisis: despite being the third-largest oil producer in sub-Saharan Africa, nearly half of Congo’s population lives below the poverty line. The upcoming presidential election on March 15 has placed economic concerns at the forefront for young voters. President Denis Sassou Nguesso, 82, seeks another term, but his campaign has faced criticism for failing to address youth unemployment. During a speech, Nguesso acknowledged the civil service’s limited capacity to absorb job seekers and urged self-employment. Yet for many, this message falls short.#world_bank #republic_of_congo #denis_sassou_nguesso #romain_tchicaya #brice_makaya
Republic of Congo Begins Ballot Counting After Presidential Election Ballot counting commenced Sunday following the conclusion of the presidential election in the Republic of Congo, where incumbent President Denis Sassou N’Guesso is seeking a fifth consecutive term. Results are anticipated within two weeks. The election, held in a country ruled by Sassou N’Guesso for 42 years, saw low voter turnout as many locals expressed skepticism about the likelihood of a leadership change. Opposition parties had called for a boycott, citing concerns over electoral fairness. Six candidates contested the presidency, including the 82-year-old Sassou N’Guesso, who faces challenges from opponents lacking experience. Analysts noted that none of the candidates posed a significant threat to the incumbent. The internet was again shut down nationwide during the election, with restricted communication in the capital, Brazzaville. A teacher, Clarisse Massamba, remarked that Sassou N’Guesso would likely secure re-election due to his extensive campaign efforts, which included traveling across the country to canvass support. Roads in Brazzaville were adorned with his effigies, highlighting his dominance in the campaign. Two major parties boycotted the election, alleging unfair practices. Sassou N’Guesso, representing the Congolese Party of Labor, first took power in 1979, ruled until 1992, and returned to power in 1997 after a civil war. A 2015 constitutional referendum removed term limits, enabling his re-election bid. The country faces economic challenges, including international debt at 94.5% of GDP and high youth unemployment. Over half of the population, which numbers 5.7 million, lives in poverty, with 47% under 18.#republic_of_congo #denis_sassou_nguesso #congolese_party_of_labor #brazzaville #international_debt
