With financial support from the World Bank and in collaboration with the OHADA National Commission (CNO) of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Coordination Unit of the TRANSFORME Project has initiated a series of strategic actions aimed at strengthening the institutional and operational environment for arbitration and mediation in the DRC. In accordance with the World Bank's procurement procedures, the Regional Advanced School of Magistracy (ERSUMA)—a specialized organ of the Organisation for the Harmonisation of Business Law in Africa (OHADA)—was designated to implement a comprehensive programme comprising awareness-raising, capacity building, legal outreach, documentary support, and technical assistance for the Congolese authorities.

The official launch ceremony took place on 14 July 2025 at the Pullman Hotel in Kinshasa, in the presence of high-level stakeholders. The event featured addresses by Ms. Losamba KITETE, representing the Coordinator of the Business Climate Unit (CCA) of the Presidency of the Republic; Ms. Mallory LUNTADI, on behalf of the Coordinator of the TRANSFORME Project; Professor Roger MASSAMBA, President of the OHADA National Commission of the DRC; and Dr. Karel Osiris Coffi DOGUE, Director General of ERSUMA. The keynote address was delivered by Maître Eddy BANTOU, representing the Minister of State, Minister of Justice and Keeper of the Seals of the DRC.

Just after the opening ceremony, a training session was launched on the theme: “The Practice of Alternative Dispute Resolution Methods (MARDs) in the OHADA Space”, held from 15 to 18 July 2025 in Kinshasa. This session marks the first in a series of training activities scheduled to take place in the cities of Kinshasa, Matadi, Kananga, and Mbuji-Mayi.

ERSUMA expresses its appreciation to the TRANSFORME Project Coordination Unit for the confidence placed in its expertise in the fields of training, legal research, documentation, translation, and consultancy relating to OHADA law and other African community legal instruments. It also extends its gratitude to the Congolese authorities for their continuous support and the logistical facilities provided towards the successful implementation of this mission.

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