Local content round table

The first Round Table on local content in the hydrocarbons sector, organized by the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and placed under the patronage of the Prime Minister, Head of Government, Mr. Anatole Collinet Makosso, was a forum for in-depth reflection on the implementation of a local content policy. Unicongo was strongly represented by its members, who shared their experiences and recommendations for the harmonious implementation of local content in the Congo. At the close of this event, which brought together African experts on local content, the Ministry of Hydrocarbons retained seven fundamental lessons.

Legislation: The need for appropriate legislation was unanimously recognized as a key element in structuring the sector. Quotas for local participation and support mechanisms for SMEs are seen as levers for the successful integration of Congolese into the industry.

Developing local skills: The importance of developing and training local skills was emphasized, reflecting an awareness that human resources development is crucial to the growth of the oil and gas industry.

Commitment to sustainable development: Discussions revealed a deep commitment to sustainable development, emphasizing that economic progress must be accompanied by social and environmental responsibility.

Cross-sector collaboration: Collaboration between different players - government, business, academia, civil society - has been identified as crucial to meeting the complex challenges of implementing a local content policy.

Listening to civil society : The importance of including citizens in the national dialogue was underlined by the fact that civil society's concerns about the economic benefits of oil and gas were taken into account.

Recognition of challenges: Officials' acknowledgement of past shortcomings and stated desire for change were hailed as signs of political maturity and aspiration for progress.

Access to information: Communication between all stakeholders has been identified as a lever for promoting the Local Content policy. In this respect, the Ministry of Hydrocarbons will launch the Local Content Monitoring Platform (PSCL), a place for exchange and intermediation.

Unicongo is strongly committed to this debate, which is crucial to the country's emergence, and has played an active role in these discussions through its members. Among the Union's recommendations is that an in-depth study be carried out to assess the current situation in each sector, with the aim of introducing realistic measures that take into account the reality of our environment.