A major nepotism scandal has erupted in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following allegations that Minister of Industry and SME-PMI Development, Louis Watum Kabamba, suspended the Director General of the National Agency for Entrepreneurship Development (ANADEC), Godefroy Kizaba, to install close associates in key positions.
The controversy, which has sparked widespread public debate and criticism, gained traction after reports surfaced claiming that Kizaba’s removal was politically motivated rather than based on performance concerns.
Social media platforms and opposition figures have accused the minister of orchestrating the move to advance personal interests within the agency responsible for supporting small and medium-sized enterprises.
In response to the growing backlash, the Ministry of Industry and SME-PMI Development issued a statement denying the allegations, insisting that Kizaba’s suspension was a precautionary measure rather than an act of favoritism.
“The Office of H.E. Louis Kabamba Watum firmly denies these claims and wishes to clarify that the decision was based on serious dysfunctions within ANADEC,” the statement read.
According to the ministry, ANADEC’s Board of Directors convened on February 10-11, 2025, and identified several governance failures, as well as “anti-republican actions” by Kizaba that threatened the agency’s ability to execute its mission effectively.
The board ultimately withdrew confidence in the director general, paving the way for the minister’s intervention.
“Following multiple meetings between the minister, the board, and Kizaba to resolve misunderstandings, it was unfortunately observed that the director general’s conduct continued to be detrimental to national interests,” the statement continued.
The ministry emphasized that Kizaba’s 90-day suspension was not a punitive measure but rather a means to enable a full investigation into the alleged mismanagement.
“In his capacity as supervising authority, H.E. Louis Kabamba Watum deemed it necessary to take precautionary measures, including a temporary suspension, to facilitate a thorough inquiry,” the statement noted.
To ensure transparency, the ministry announced the formation of an independent commission comprising officials from the Minister’s Office, the General Inspectorate of Finance (IGF), and the General Secretariat for SMEs. The commission will investigate the matter and allow Kizaba to present his defense.
Despite the government’s attempt to downplay the controversy, the scandal has fueled concerns over nepotism within state institutions. Critics argue that the timing and manner of Kizaba’s removal raise serious questions about political interference in public administration.
As the independent commission begins its work, pressure is mounting on Minister Watum Kabamba to prove that his actions were in the public interest and not a calculated move to serve personal or political allies.