In a context of growing tension, oil companies members of the Fédération des Entreprises du Congo (FEC) in the southern zone of the country have announced a strike planned for the next 48 hours, starting October 20, 2023. This decision makes following the non-compliance with commitments made by the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
According to a strike notice addressed to the Prime Minister and a copy of which was sent to CONGOPROFOND.NET, oil tankers in the southern zone are facing significant losses and a shortfall in earnings that has not been reimbursed for more than a year. They also highlight the lack of publication of the new price structure, which does not take into account the rise in prices of petroleum products on the international market.
The FEC, in a memo dated September 14, 2023, had already warned of the risks incurred in the event of non-regularization of the situation. Unfortunately, commitments made by the government at a meeting on September 30 have not been met, with partial payments promised but not delivered to date.
This strike decision was motivated by the strong escalation in the main parameters of the price structure noted during an extraordinary meeting of the petroleum product price monitoring committee on October 1 in Lubumbashi. Faced with this situation, oil companies have decided to cease the distribution of petroleum products in the southern zone from October 20.
This strike by oil companies once again highlights the challenges facing the DRC in terms of natural resource management. It highlights the need for better regulation of the oil industry to ensure fair working conditions for companies in the sector and guarantee the stability of the supply of petroleum products for the population.
It is essential that the DRC government takes urgent action to resolve this conflict and address the legitimate concerns of oil companies. A constructive dialogue and a balanced solution are necessary to avoid major disruptions in the oil sector and preserve the country’s economy.
Joseph MALABA/Congoprofond.net