The Republic of Congo is advancing its oil and gas sector through the development of a dedicated local content law aimed at reinforcing regulations and boosting national employment. This initiative underscores the country’s commitment to maximizing domestic benefits from its energy resources. The 2016 Hydrocarbons Code mandates that companies prioritize the hiring, training, and promotion of Congolese nationals in decision-making and technical roles. Additionally, businesses, including subcontractors, must source goods and services locally, even when local offers are up to 10% more expensive than foreign alternatives.
Energy Capital & Power recently engaged with Karim Manouach, Managing Director of Congo Services, a majority Congolese-owned company that exemplifies the government’s local content strategy. The company actively contributes to workforce development and the energy sector’s growth.
Enhancing Local Expertise in Oil & Gas Services
Congo Services specializes in stevedoring, handling, lifting equipment rental, and maintenance services for lifting equipment. Since 2020, the company has expanded its reach to repair and maintenance services across the oil and gas, mining, and private sectors. It is also the exclusive dealer for Manitowoc cranes in Congo, providing sales, rentals, and servicing. The company’s subsidiaries include Congo Services Transit, which focuses on freight forwarding, and SCPP, which offers painting and scaffolding services for offshore platforms.
“We are the only Congolese company in this field, competing with international firms that have vast resources. To stay competitive, we’ve had to adapt by maintaining the structure of a national company while meeting international standards,” said Manouach.
Congo Services boasts a strong client portfolio, working with major oil companies such as TotalEnergies, Perenco, ENI, Schlumberger, Halliburton, and Baker Hughes. Manouach emphasized, “Our long-term collaborations with both major and junior oil companies reflect our expertise and deep-rooted commitment to the industry.”
Raising the Bar for Local Content
Congo Services aligns its operations with international standards to strengthen local expertise. “Our goal is to ensure Congolese professionals have the skills and knowledge to compete at a global level,” stated Manouach. To achieve this, the company is investing in a new maintenance facility, setting international benchmarks in offshore operations, with a focus on hydraulics and specialized repairs.
Manouach further noted, “We don’t just hire local talent—we develop it. Building local capacity isn’t just a legal requirement; it’s a strategic asset.” The company provides structured training programs to equip employees with technical skills for high-level roles in the oil and gas sector. Additionally, it has expanded its inspection services by acquiring its first magnetic particle testing kit.
Looking beyond the Republic of Congo, the company is planning regional expansion. “We already have equipment in Cabinda, working with the local refinery,” Manouach revealed. “As soon as that project is completed, our equipment will move to the airport construction site nearby.” Congo Services is also exploring opportunities in other African countries to further extend its expertise.
Local content promotion will be a key focus at the upcoming Congo Energy & Investment Forum, scheduled for March 24-26 in Brazzaville. The event will highlight energy projects and investment opportunities, bringing together international investors, industry leaders, and local stakeholders to drive sector growth.
Source: Energy Capital and Power
