The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faces significant challenges in its public procurement sector, with local government transparency often lacking, affecting small business access to contracts and opportunities. Theoretical frameworks are constructed through literature review, expert consultations, and qualitative analysis of existing data from public procurement records. The theoretical framework developed highlights the critical role of transparency in fostering fair and equitable access for small businesses in DRC’s public procurement sector. Future research should focus on empirical testing of these insights. Local governments in DRC should prioritise improving procurement processes to enhance transparency, thereby supporting small business growth and economic development.