Léon Kamba Mbuyi

TBY talks to Léon Kamba Mbuyi, Managing Partner of Lekam Services, about collaboration with ANAPI, diversification of the Congolese economy, and sectors with potential.

Unlike most consultants, Lekam is characterized for its specialized expertise and a strong collaborative relationship with ANAPI. Is Lekam a consultancy specifically for foreign companies?

We can do both. For instance, companies investing in Kolwezi include local businesses. However, we have also worked with foreign companies, including one that signed a partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the DRC. These are foreign companies that set up subsidiaries in the DRC to operate locally in their activities. Thus, we assist both local and international companies, although, to date, the majority of our clients are foreign. However, we have seen an increase in local businesses seeking our services, especially to benefit from ANAPI exemptions and other fiscal assistance. We are experts in filing applications with ANAPI. Our in-depth knowledge of ANAPI’s teams, strengthened through regular interaction during harmonization meetings, reflects our consistent engagement, although no formal partnership exists.

How is Lekam working towards a diversification of the Congolese economy?

Lekam Services tailors its consulting services to client needs. For example, we have assisted a company in the construction sector, specifically in the production and supply of ready-mix concrete. LEKAM obtained the exemptions offered by the DRC’s Investment Code for this client. We are currently assisting another company in obtaining an exemption for the equipment to be imported for their manufacturing plant. Additionally, we helped the local subsidiary of a German firm specializing in digital identification technology and solutions to access the benefits of the Investment Code. Our mission is to support all businesses aiming to leverage the potential of the DRC.

Lekam Services actively vouches for favorable conditions at the ANAPI and other government agencies. What is the process?

We base ourselves on many sources of information. The sector reports from ANAPI are reports by sector. That is the first point. The second source of information, which is important, is the National Institute of Statistics of the DRC, which provides detailed insights into different industries and region, allowing us to offer clients market trends and strategic advice. Every time we are approached, we do what is called tax mapping. We map by sector and find the base taxes for each sector and their deadlines. We also offer tailored tax consulting services, including fiscal mapping. This involves identifying key taxes per sector and their respective deadlines, which we adapt to each sector based on client discussions and assessment of needs.

What is the next market trend that investors should be aware of?

The construction sector stands out as highly promising, given the vast expanse of the DRC. We are receiving increasing inquiries from companies operating in construction. Ready-mix concrete demand almost came at the same time as demand for the construction of charged zones.

What is missing to make the DRC more attractive for business?

Based on several challenges and market practice, I would say that one major challenge lies in the diversity and multitude of taxes. Tax relief measures would motivate more foreign investors to establish operations in the DRC. ANAPI’s exemptions represent a strategic lever for companies, particularly during the startup phase. These exemptions significantly reduce financial burdens when investments are high, and profits are still limited, paving the way for smoother and more sustainable economic development.

Lekam has worked and works with all sectors of the Congolese economy. Which one is the sector with the most potential?

I would say the sector of energy because a functioning country is one that has reliable and sustainable energy. That said, other strategic sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, and technology also hold promising opportunities, contributing to economic diversification and supporting sustainable growth.