Goma, 06 August 2024 (Fatshimetrie). Transparency in negotiations concerning hydrocarbon resources is proving to be a major issue, raised during a social dialogue initiated in Goma, in the province of North Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of Congo. During this meeting, the participants and the organizations involved unanimously recommended greater transparency in the negotiation process for oil and gas blocks.
Emmanuel Ndimwiza, the program manager of the association “Congo Uni” part of the consortium “Le Congo n’est pas à vendre” (CNPAV), stressed the importance of this recommendation. Since the call for tenders launched in July 2022 by the Congolese government for 27 oil blocks and 3 gas blocks, controversies persist regarding the allocation of certain blocks to bidding companies. This context raises the need to promote transparency in the negotiation processes to guarantee the fairness and legitimacy of the agreements.
The uncertainty surrounding the designation of blocks, their compatibility with protected areas, and the economic viability of operations raises legitimate concerns. Faced with these challenges, the Association Congo Nouveau, a partner of the CNPAV consortium, has initiated social dialogues aimed at raising awareness of the need for advocacy for transparency in oil and gas block negotiations.
It is crucial to recognize that the opacity of negotiation processes can not only compromise Congo’s economic and environmental interests, but also threaten efforts to combat climate change. By promoting a transparent approach, stakeholders will be able to contribute to building a more sustainable and equitable future for the Congolese nation.
In conclusion, transparency in hydrocarbon resource negotiations is of paramount importance to ensure responsible and beneficial development for all. The recommendations made during this social dialogue in Goma call for collective awareness and concrete actions in favor of more transparent management of the country’s energy resources.