The Democratic Republic of Congo has announced a significant increase in the Guaranteed Minimum Wage (SMIG), raising it from $2.5 to $5, effective February 1.
This wage hike aims to improve living conditions for Congolese citizens, according to government officials. The increase is seen as a major social advancement for the country.
DRC's Minister of Labor and Employment, Ephraïm Akwakwa Nametu, welcomed this progress, highlighting that it was the result of social dialogue. He emphasized the importance of compliance with the new regulation by both public and private sector employers.
While unions have expressed satisfaction with the raise, they have raised concerns about its implementation, particularly in the public sector, where the national budget has not accounted for the increase due to financial constraints, according to local media reports.