Serving as the inaugural edition, the forum underscores the Republic of Congo's growing role in Africa's energy landscape. Under the leadership of Minister of Hydrocarbons Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, the country has affirmed its commitment to maximizing its energy potential and streamlining licensing and regulatory processes, leading to a series of recent acquisitions and project developments. As sub-Saharan Africa’s fourth-largest oil producer – with a daily output of 280,000 barrels expected by the end of 2024 – the Congo has attracted a new wave of independent explorers and investments across its energy value chain, rivaling neighboring oil giants like Angola and Nigeria.