Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, Minister of Hydrocarbons, Republic of Congo and current President of the African Petroleum Producers’ Organization (APPO), will deliver remarks at the G20 African Energy Investment Forum, hosted by the African Energy Chamber (AEC). His participation underscores the Republic of Congo’s ambitious plans to expand oil and gas production and position itself as a leading energy hub in Central Africa.
Minister Itoua’s participation comes at a pivotal moment as the Republic of Congo advances major initiatives across the energy sector. With current oil production at approximately 274,000 barrels per day (bpd) and a target of 500,000 bpd in the medium term, the government is actively reforming its regulatory framework, including a new Gas Master Plan and Gas Code, and the establishment of a national gas company to attract foreign investment and foster public-private partnerships.
Under Minister Itoua’s leadership, the Republic of Congo has achieved key milestones in both oil and gas development. The country exported its first LNG cargo in February 2024 from the Tango FLNG facility, part of the flagship Congo LNG Project with Italian energy major Eni. Phase 2 of the project is underway, with the second FLNG expected to bring total LNG capacity to 3 million tons per year. In parallel, the Banga Kayo Integrated Gas Development – led by Chinese company Wing Wah – is monetizing previously flared associated gas for domestic and regional use, with multi-phase expansion scheduled.
The Republic of Congo’s upstream sector is also seeing significant investment and strategic partnerships. QatarEnergy, in partnership with supermajor TotalEnergies and the national oil company SNPC, secured an offshore exploration license for the Nzombo block. Exploration and production company Trident Energy acquired interests in the Nkossa, Nsoko II, Lianzi and Moho-Bilondo fields, while independent hydrocarbon producer Perenco invested $300 million to revitalize mature fields, aiming to raise production to 100,000 bpd by the end of the year. These initiatives, combined with refinery projects such as the upgrade of the Congolaise de Raffinage refinery and construction of the new Atlantic Petrochemical Refinery in Pointe-Noire, demonstrate the Republic of Congo’s integrated approach to expanding production, refining capacity and LNG commercialization.
As President of APPO, Minister Itoua has played a central role in continental energy cooperation, advancing initiatives such as the African Energy Bank to close financing gaps and enable large-scale oil and gas projects across Africa. His leadership continues to facilitate strategic collaboration with key international partners, while also promoting regional energy security and sustainable development.
“The participation of Minister Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua at the G20 African Energy Investment Forum demonstrates the Republic of Congo’s commitment to scaling production, attracting investment and delivering reliable energy infrastructure. His presence highlights the intersection of national leadership, continental collaboration and investor-ready opportunities across Africa’s hydrocarbon sector,” states NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman, AEC.
The G20 African Energy Investment Forum will convene senior government officials, investors, development institutions and project developers to engage on investment pipelines, policy reforms and innovative financing solutions. Minister Itoua’s participation positions the Republic of Congo as a key case study in accelerating energy sector growth, LNG commercialization and cross-border cooperation in Africa.
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