FY 1999 assistance will fund election-related activities to ensure that the process is politically inclusive with a key activity in educating voters. The almost complete lack of social services has been an appalling legacy of the Mobutu government. The revitalization and strengthening of a sustainable health care system is a high priority. Immunizing children can reduce these mortality rates. Translating the nation's proven potential wealth into an improving Congolese standard of living will take time and donor resources.
Deep suspicion is a major stumbling block between the government and private sector.
Obstacles such as corruption, and access to credit and technology will be examined. Great wealth of natural resources combined with the overwhelming need for funds invite unsustainable or destructive resource extraction behavior. Similarly, the spread of infectious disease is often traceable to the pressure placed on inadequate water and waste systems. These conditions are often exacerbated by initial increases in production activity. In terms of economic development, the Congo has significant possibilities for tourist industry development that could simultaneously address protection of biological resources, and community security.