The Gas as Fuel for Progress session will delve into the nation's strategic initiatives, including the establishment of a National Gas Company in Congo, the introduction of a new Gas Code, and the implementation of a comprehensive Gas Master Plan. These developments are designed to position Congo as a major subregional gas exporter, with an emphasis on creating a more attractive investment climate for gas-to-power projects.

The inaugural Congo Energy and Investment Forum, set for March 24-26, 2025, in Brazzaville, under the patronage of President Denis Sassou Nguesso and supported by the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and Société Nationale des Pétroles du Congo, will bring together international investors and local stakeholders to explore national and regional energy and infrastructure opportunities. The event will explore the latest gas-to-power projects and provide updates on ongoing expansions across the country.

In recent years, Congo has made significant strides in its natural gas sector, notably through collaborations with international energy companies like Eni. Eni’s Congo LNG project marks the country's first natural gas liquefaction initiative. This project includes the deployment of two Floating LNG units: the Tango FLNG, operational since December 2023 with a capacity of 0.6 million tons per annum (MTPA); and the Nguya FLNG, launched in November 2024, adding an additional 2.4 MTPA. Collectively, these units are expected to bring the total liquefaction capacity to 3 MTPA by the end of 2025.

Congo's regulatory framework has evolved to support these developments. The forthcoming Gas Code, set to be unveiled at CEIF, aims to establish a legal and regulatory environment to attract investment in gas exploration and production. Complementing this, the Gas Master Plan will provide a strategic roadmap for investment, infrastructure development and resource management in the gas industry. These initiatives are designed to create a robust framework for investors, laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and the achievement of the country's industrial goals.

"As Congo aims to increase its natural gas production, the emphasis on gas-focused legislation and strategic initiatives underscores the nation's commitment to leveraging gas as a fuel for progress," stated Event and Project Director at Energy Capital & Power Sandra Jeque, adding, "The CEIF is poised to play a crucial role in advancing these objectives, fostering collaboration and attracting the investments necessary to realize the country's energy ambitions."

By utilizing natural gas for electricity generation, Congo can provide a more stable energy supply and develop its economy. Additionally, natural gas serves as a critical feedstock for fertilizer production, which can bolster the agricultural sector and contribute to food security.