DR Congo's Banana SEZ gets expert approval
The project in Muanda, Kongo Central, secured a favorable opinion with over $100 million investment planned.
Experts have given a preliminary green light to the Banana Special Economic Zone (SEZ) project in Muanda, Kongo Central. The project, led by ARISE IIP, received this positive assessment after an October 21-23, 2026, commission meeting. This development aims to transform the province into a new industrial and logistics hub for the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Banana SEZ project plans to mobilize $104 million in investments across approximately 984 hectares. ARISE IIP's request for the industrial infrastructure was approved by the Special Economic Zone Status Award Commission. Director General of the Special Economic Zone Agency (AZES), Auguy Bolanda, stated the initiative is expected to create 50,000 direct and indirect jobs.
The SEZ is designed to attract businesses in logistics, agro-industry, and construction materials. Its proximity to the Banana deep-water port, currently under construction, is seen as a key advantage. The project also includes plans for training centers to develop necessary skills for companies within the zone.
Why it mattersThe Banana SEZ project in DR Congo is expected to create 50,000 jobs and attract $104 million in investment.