Government-Union-Business Agreement on SMIG Adjustment
In a groundbreaking meeting at the Primature on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, attended by key stakeholders, including government members, the national trade union, and the Federation of Congolese Enterprises (FEC), the Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka led discussions on the critical issue of the Guaranteed Interprofessional Minimum Wage (SMIG).
Agreement on SMIG Increase
The government, under Prime Minister Suminwa’s leadership, prioritizes employment and purchasing power issues. They have committed to raising the current SMIG rate of 7,075 Congolese francs to 14,500 FC, effectively doubling it. Minister of Employment and Labor Akwakwa Ephraim stated, “We have agreed that the rate of 14,500 Congolese francs is accepted by all parties. However, we will discuss other issues at the National Labor Council to be convened next week.”
Importance of Legal Procedures
Vice Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy Daniel Mukoko Samba emphasized the need to adhere to proper procedures to ensure the quality and legality of the wage adjustment. He stated, “Respecting the procedure guarantees the quality of the measure and the text that supports it. What we need to avoid is any legal challenges in the future.”
Union and Business Support
President of the national trade union, Guy Kuku Gedila, commended the Prime Minister’s approach, highlighting the importance of formalizing the agreed-upon wage increase through legal procedures. Similarly, FEC President Robert Malumba expressed support for the government’s initiative, emphasizing the need for the National Labor Council to regularize the adjustment procedure.
Legal Challenges and Government Response
In December 2024, Minister Akwakwa had issued an order adjusting the SMIG, which was later deemed non-compliant with established procedures. However, in early January 2025, Prime Minister Suminwa instructed the minister to retract the order and follow the legal process, involving the National Labor Council for legal advisory. The meeting clarified that the Prime Minister’s stance was not against the wage update but aimed at safeguarding workers’ interests.
As a personal touch, imagine you are a worker in the Democratic Republic of the Congo struggling to make ends meet on the current SMIG rate. The news of the impending increase to 14,500 FC brings a glimmer of hope, knowing that your hard work will soon be more fairly compensated. This wage adjustment could mean better living conditions for you and your family, providing a brighter future and a sense of security.