The Republic of Congo is gearing up for its 2025 licensing round, with a focus on onshore blocks in the country’s continental basin. This announcement was made by Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, the Minister of Hydrocarbons, during a ministerial panel discussion at the Congo Energy & Investment Forum in Brazzaville.
Minister Itoua emphasized the importance of developing the country’s hydrocarbons sector as a key component of the national development plan. He stated, “We have no choice but to take care of hydrocarbons to give the country the capacity to develop.”
In addition to the licensing round, the Ministry of Hydrocarbons plans to collaborate with Trident Energy to monetize associated gas from the N’Kossa oil field. This initiative is part of a strategy to reach zero flaring by 2030 and maximize the utilization of natural resources.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is exploring opportunities for bilateral cooperation with the Republic of Congo in developing cross-border hydrocarbon resources. Minister Aimé Sakombi Molendo announced discussions with the aim of mutually benefiting from the abundant hydrocarbon reserves in the region.
Angola’s Secretary of State for Mineral Resources, Petroleum, and Gas, José Barroso, highlighted the potential for joint energy projects with both Congo and DRC. He emphasized the need to create conducive technical conditions to encourage national companies to participate in the energy sector.
Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim, Secretary-General of the African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO), discussed the upcoming African Energy Bank, a collaborative effort to finance the development of Africa’s oil, gas, and energy industries. The bank aims to promote regional cooperation and drive cross-border development in the energy sector.
The Congo Energy & Investment Forum, scheduled for March 24-26, 2025, in Brazzaville, will provide a platform for international investors and local stakeholders to explore energy and infrastructure opportunities in the region. The event is under the patronage of President Denis Sassou Nguesso and is supported by the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo.
As Africa seeks to leverage its natural resources for economic development, collaboration and strategic partnerships will play a crucial role in driving sustainable growth in the energy sector. The 2025 licensing round in the Republic of Congo signals a commitment to unlocking the country’s hydrocarbon potential and attracting investment for the benefit of the nation and the region.
