Examining the Role of the World Bank in Post- Conflict Reconstruction: A Case of the Democratic Republic Of Congo

Democratic Republic of Congo is a country with rich natural resources. However, the continuous civil wars in DRC have made it difficult for any meaningful economic, social, and political development to take place. The underdevelopment in DRC is the reason why the World Bank initiated projects that can help in steering economic development in DRC thus the need for the study. Therefore, it is critical to understand the underlying issues affecting the suitability and effectiveness of economic development in DRC. This thesis explores the role of the World Bank in post-conflict reconstruction from conflict resolution towards sustainable economic development programs in Democratic Republic of Congo. It strives to show the changing role of the World Bank in the reconstruction of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).The study used qualitative research approach as well as the case study research design. Data was collected through secondary sources and the data was qualitatively examined by the use of content analysis. The study is premised on two theories. Conflict theory which states that conflicts arises as a result of presence of two or more disagreeing parties while institutional theory presents the systems or organizational and institutional arrangement that can support sustainable economic development from bodies such as World Bank. The study found out that the World Bank in its efforts to transform from post conflict resolution to economic development programs, has resorted to implementation of various projects that have helped spur economic growth in the DRC. The study concluded that indeed the World Bank has shifted from promoting conflict resolution to initiating and implementing sustainable economic development programs that will have a lasting solution to DRC problems. The study, therefore, recommends that problems such as poverty, marginalization, and repeat civil unrests could be issues of the past as long as the recommendations identified in the study are addressed.