The government of Congo-Brazzaville announced on Wednesday that state-financed travel is suspended.
This ban will remain in effect until the end of 2024. The decision applies to government members, senior officials, and other state agents.
Prime Minister Anatole Collinet Makosso signed a circular detailing the suspension.
An exception has been made for travel related to the president of the republic. The circular encourages officials to participate in video conferences instead.
A government source explained that the measure aims to reduce state costs.
Congo-Brazzaville is currently facing significant cash flow tensions. Various sectors of the economy have been struggling and are reportedly in the red.
The country, an oil-producing nation, has over five million residents.
According to World Bank estimates, nearly half of the population lives below the poverty line. Recent events in the capital, Brazzaville, highlight ongoing issues within the city.
Rubbish has accumulated in the streets as refuse collectors strike due to unpaid wages.
Additionally, the city has experienced power cuts for a month due to damaged electricity pylons. An investigation has been launched by the public prosecutor regarding the damage.
The government has also revised its 2024 budget downward to four billion euros. This is a significant decrease from the six billion euros budgeted in 2020.
