Delayed payment of teachers by IFOD-Caritas: Tony Mwaba promises rapid solutions

As planned, the Minister of Primary, Secondary, and Technical Education (EPST), Professor Tony Mwaba Kazadi, convened a meeting on Thursday, January 25, 2024, with all members of the Teachers’ Pay Committee in his office to find a definitive solution to the delayed payment of teachers’ salaries and operational expenses in hard-to-reach areas. Present were delegations from the Inter-Union Committee of Teachers’ Unions in the sub-sector, the Central Bank of Congo, IFOD-Caritas (paying banks), and Equity BCDC, including the Government’s Deputy Authorizing Officer and the minister’s close associates.

For many hours, participants focused on the various regions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo affected by the delay in monthly payments, notably Bikoro, Bomongo, Ingende, Lukolela, Makanza, Budjala, Gemena, Kungu, Libenge, Monkoto, Aru, Dekese, Yakoma, and Katako-Kombe. These discussions revealed weaknesses among certain stakeholders in the payroll process, a situation that is detrimental to teachers, with the result that teaching is disrupted to the detriment of students.

According to the head of the EPST, a consensus has been reached to find an adequate solution as quickly as possible, given the urgency of the situation.

"For now, we have tried to identify the problem, and the three partners—namely the Central Bank of Congo, IFOD, and Equity BCDC—will meet to discuss the matter and return on Tuesday to present a solution, as the problem lies at their level. They must discuss the matter among themselves to find a solution, and on Tuesday we will hold the final meeting to identify potential solutions and resolve the issue of unpaid teachers in the areas mentioned here," stated Professor Tony Mwaba Kazadi.

The minister then called on the teachers affected by this unfortunate situation to remain calm, given the process that has just been set in motion with all stakeholders.

"Teachers should remain calm and reassured wherever there are delays in pay. A solution is being worked out. We won’t wait until Tuesday. The process is already underway," he said. 

Christian BELLA