Félix Tshisekedi launches ExpoBéton 2026 in Kinshasa, urging stronger construction standards and infrastructure that serves local communities….reports Africa Daily News Desk
President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo on Wednesday, launched the 12th edition of ExpoBéton RDC in Kinshasa, with the event focused on the role of the capital in transforming cities across the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The edition is being held under the theme, “Kinshasa, locomotive for the transformation of the cities of the DRC.” Echo CD
The four-day event, running from October 7 to 10, brings together stakeholders involved in construction, infrastructure, urban development and related sectors. The official ExpoBéton programme describes the event as a platform focused on construction, infrastructure, city development, corridors and special economic zones. ExpoBeton RDC
In his address, Tshisekedi stressed that infrastructure projects should contribute directly to local development and meet the needs of communities.
“A road takes on its full value when it enables a farmer to transport his harvest, a business to receive its equipment, and a family to more easily access school or healthcare,” he said.
Why is Tshisekedi calling for stronger construction standards?
The President also called for greater attention to the durability and quality of infrastructure, urging engineers and architects to strictly follow construction standards.
“Respecting the rules of the art is a duty toward the community. It protects lives, preserves investments, and builds trust in your professions,” he said.
His remarks come as ExpoBéton 2026 places urban planning and infrastructure development at the centre of discussions on the future of Kinshasa and other cities in the country. Organisers have said the event is intended to advance discussions on urban growth, infrastructure, mobility and territorial planning. Radio Okapi
The President linked the 12th edition of ExpoBéton to the wider infrastructure modernisation policy being pursued by his administration.
The approach includes investments in roads, ring roads and airports, alongside the Local Development Programme for the 145 territories. The broader objective is to improve connectivity between different parts of the country and support economic activity.
ExpoBéton’s official programme says the 2026 edition seeks to position Kinshasa as a “locomotive” connecting the country’s provinces, while promoting integrated planning, technological innovation and public-private partnerships. ExpoBeton RDC
How could Kinshasa drive urban transformation in the DRC?
The event is also examining how Kinshasa can respond to the pressures created by rapid urban growth and infrastructure needs.
The organisers have placed particular emphasis on the planning and development of cities, including transport infrastructure and other services needed to support expanding urban populations. Radio Okapi
A central theme of the discussions is the need for infrastructure to be designed around the needs of residents rather than treated solely as construction projects.
The 12th edition of ExpoBéton RDC is being held at La Grande Résidence – Galerie La Fontaine in Kinshasa from October 7 to 10. The event is bringing together public officials, construction professionals, investors, urban planners, engineers and other stakeholders to discuss the future development of Congolese cities. ExpoBeton RDC
