DR Congo President Félix Tshisekedi has announced an increase in the salaries of Congolese soldiers engaged in the ongoing war.
In an interview with the French newspaper Le Figaro, Tshisekedi revealed that the monthly pay, which was previously set at $100, has now been raised to an average of $500 for soldiers on the front lines.
The move comes as part of the government’s broader efforts to boost morale among troops fighting against armed groups in eastern DR Congo. The eastern part of the country has been plagued by violence for decades, with the Congolese army (FARDC) engaged in fierce battles against the M23 rebels and other militias.
“This salary increase reflects our commitment to supporting our troops who are sacrificing their lives for the nation,” Tshisekedi said.
The salary adjustment is expected to improve the welfare of soldiers and their families, while also strengthening the army’s operational effectiveness. Analysts believe that better remuneration could help reduce cases of desertion and improve discipline within the armed forces.
In the interview, Tshisekedi revealed details about his meeting with Rwandan President Paul Kagame on Tuesday in Doha, Qatar.
The two met as part of broader efforts to ease tensions. The Congolese president said the meeting was the work of Qataris emissaries he met in February on the sidelines of the Munich Security he attended.
Tuesday’s meeting came a day after the EU slapped sanctions on Rwandan officials and M23 rebels it accuses of fueling the conflict in eastern DRC.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to negotiate a lasting peace continue, with regional and international actors urging dialogue to end the conflict.
