DR Congo signs contracts to modernise 13 airports by end of 2028
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Desk Eco
Congolese Transport Minister Jean-Pierre Bemba signed contracts on 29 October 2026 with four companies to rehabilitate, modernise or build 13 airports in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Funded by the public treasury, the works should improve links between provinces, with the first handovers expected by the end of 2028, according to Desk Eco.
Congolese Deputy Prime Minister in charge of Transport Jean-Pierre Bemba signed contracts on Thursday 29 October 2026 with four companies to rehabilitate, modernise or build 13 airports in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The first handovers are expected by the end of 2028, according to Desk Eco.
SAFRICAS will work in Boende, Kalemie and Kikwit; SAFRIMEX in Bandundu, Bumba, Lisala, Tshikapa and Matadi; SOKERICO in Gbadolite and Buta-Zega; and MODERN CONSTRUCTION in Gemena, Mbandaka and Muanda. These companies, which are already established in the DRC, will be funded by the public treasury.
The works include the construction and extension of runways, the building of terminals and control towers, as well as the construction of perimeter fences, fire stations, inspection buildings and freight infrastructure. The airports in Beni and Isiro could be added to the programme in the coming days under a contract with Mont Gabaon.
The programme is part of measures announced by Jean-Pierre Bemba to strengthen public transport on 17 October. The Congolese government also announced on 26 October that it was preparing the financing of the Grand Inga dam with Washington.
