Tourism and Economic Growth in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: An Empirical Analysis from 1995 to 2023

Abstract

This paper examines the relationship between tourism and economic growth in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) over the period 1995–2023. It highlights a significant positive impact of tourism on national economic growth. Using an ARDL modelling approach, the results reveal a bidirectional causal relationship in the Toda-Yamamoto sense between GDP per capita and tourism revenues. The test also confirms causal links between institutional variables, tourism activity, and economic growth. Therefore, the development of sustainable tourism, supported by strong institutional governance and effective regulation, appears to be a strategic lever for stimulating economic growth and economic diversification in the DRC.

Keywords: Tourism, Economic Growth, ARDL Model, Governance.

Received Date: February 22, 2026

Accepted Date: March 14, 2026

Published Date: April 02, 2026

Available Online at: https://www.ijsrisjournal.com/index.php/ojsfiles/article/view/620