The Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) kicked off with a bang, featuring welcome and keynote addresses from key industry leaders in the Republic of Congo’s energy sector. The goal of the forum is to double oil production to 500,000 barrels per day by 2027 and launch a new Gas Master Plan. This event provides a platform for attendees to connect with leaders in the Congo’s energy market.
During the opening session, Congo’s Minister of Hydrocarbons, Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, emphasized Congo’s potential as a major player in Central Africa’s energy sector. He highlighted critical reforms and initiatives aimed at maximizing the country’s energy potential.
Sébastien Brice Poaty, General Secretary of Congo’s parastatal Société National de Pétroles du Congo (SNPC), reiterated Congo’s commitment to developing hydrocarbons and renewable energy to increase access throughout the country. Poaty announced the finalization of the Gas Master Plan, set to launch at CEIF 2025, and the upcoming adoption of the new Gas Code.
Haitham Al Ghais, Secretary General of OPEC, emphasized the importance of stability in the market for attracting investment to Congo’s energy sector. Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim, Secretary General of the African Petroleum Producers’ Organization (APPO), stressed the need for Congo to review its strategies and revitalize its hydrocarbons sector amidst global energy shifts.
Key industry players like TotalEnergies, Eni, Imperatus Energy, and Ammat Global Resources also presented during the opening ceremony. TotalEnergies highlighted the need for a competitive fiscal framework and stable regulatory environment for long-term investment viability. Eni announced the completion of its ninth LNG cargo, reaching 1 million cubic meters of LNG produced and exported in the market.
The African Energy Chamber’s Executive Chairman, NJ Ayuk, expressed optimism for Congo to attract global investment through regulatory reforms and improved governance. Oumar Semega, CEO of Imperatus Energy Group, emphasized the strategic role of energy in Congo and the company’s vision to create value in the oil and gas sector.
CEIF 2025 is set to take place from March 24-26 in Brazzaville under the patronage of Congo’s President Denis Sassou Nguesso. The event, supported by the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and SNPC, aims to bring together international investors and local stakeholders to explore energy and infrastructure opportunities in the region.
