Congo to Host CEIF 2026 Amid Accelerated Oil, Gas, and Power Sector Growth
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Building on the success of its inaugural edition in March 2025, the Republic of Congo is set to host the second Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) in Brazzaville from March 10 to 12, 2026. Held under the theme “Invest. Build. Empower: Transforming Congo’s Energy Landscape,” the forum aims to consolidate the country’s rising profile in the oil, gas, and electricity sectors while showcasing new opportunities to domestic and international investors.
The timing is significant. The 2025–2026 period marks a turning point in Congo’s energy strategy, with transformative developments taking shape across the hydrocarbons and power sectors. A centrepiece of these efforts is the second phase of the Congo LNG project, expected to go live in December 2025. This expansion will allow Eni to triple its liquefied natural gas (LNG) output from 0.6 to 3 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) a leap that underscores Congo’s ambitions to become a key player in the global LNG market.
Also on the horizon is the launch of the Fouta Refinery, targeting a 2.5 mtpa capacity for refined petroleum products, including gasoline and diesel. This facility is expected to enhance domestic fuel security, support regional supply chains, and reduce reliance on imports.
These advances are backed by Congo’s significant proven gas reserves estimated at over 10 trillion cubic feet and follow a landmark moment in February 2024 when Congo exported its first LNG cargo from the Tango FLNG floating platform. With this momentum, authorities are preparing to establish a national gas company, roll out a revised gas code, and unveil a sector-wide master plan for long-term development.
On the oil front, the government has announced a strategy to nearly double oil production from 280,000 to 500,000 barrels per day by 2027. This expansion is being driven by leading players such as TotalEnergies, Perenco, and Trident Energy, focusing on new exploration blocks and optimising output from mature fields.
As part of efforts to accelerate foreign direct investment, Congo will launch an international oil and gas licensing round this year. The round will be open to major international companies equipped to tap deepwater resources, as well as local and regional firms interested in marginal fields. This initiative is poised to reinforce Congo’s status as the third-largest oil producer in sub-Saharan Africa.
In parallel, authorities are looking to double the country’s electricity generation capacity to 1,500 MW by 2030, with an emphasis on renewables and hydroelectric energy. With a vast untapped hydro potential of 27,000 MW, Congo is well-positioned to become a regional green energy powerhouse. Strategic dam and water diversion projects have been earmarked for investment.
The 2026 forum programme will feature expert roundtables, technical workshops, and investor presentations aimed at deepening dialogue and strengthening partnerships. Organisers hope the platform will serve as a launchpad for infrastructure projects, policy coordination, and private-sector collaboration.
According to Sandra Jeque, Director of Events and Projects at Energy Capital & Power, “CEIF 2026 is a key platform to illustrate the dynamics of Congo’s energy transformation. In a context of the rise of hydrocarbons and the transition to renewables, the forum fosters constructive exchanges, attracts capital, and strengthens partnerships essential to the sustainable development of the sector.”
Supported by the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and the National Petroleum Company of Congo, CEIF 2026 will welcome government leaders, investors, IOCs, NOCs, independent operators, and energy experts, building on the success of CEIF 2025 and pushing forward the country's long-term energy vision.
