Congo’s revised wartime budget, currently under consideration by lawmakers, reflects a downward revision of expected tax revenue and a surge in military costs due to an ongoing conflict with Rwandan-backed rebels.
The budget bill, approved by President Felix Tshisekedi’s cabinet, includes slightly decreased spending of $17.2 billion and anticipates tax revenue to drop to 12.5% of GDP from 15.1% expected under the original budget.
The conflict has led to the closure of revenue collection offices in areas controlled by the M23 rebels, resulting in a potential 4% shortfall in expected tax revenue.
Despite increased security spending, army officials report persistent shortages of food, ammunition, and basic equipment, with much of the funding going towards arms procurement.
The International Monetary Fund has warned that the fighting is straining public finances, and the domestic budget deficit is projected to reach 1.2% of GDP this year.
