Marcellin Simba Ngabi, the CEO of Gabon Oil Company (GOC), has been confirmed as a key speaker at the highly anticipated Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF), scheduled to take place on March 25-26, 2025, in Brazzaville.

The event marks a significant opportunity for Gabon to showcase its expanding oil and gas sector, as well as reinforce regional cooperation in Central Africa’s energy future. As the leader of Gabon’s national oil company, Ngabi will present GOC’s ambitious strategies to attract foreign and regional investment.

James Chester, CEO of Energy Capital & Power, emphasized the importance of regional collaboration, stating, “Gabon Oil Company’s participation at the Congo Energy & Investment Forum reflects the importance of collaboration and innovation in advancing Africa’s energy sector.”

Central to his address will be Gabon’s efforts to ramp up oil production to 220,000 barrels per day (bpd), a crucial target for the country’s economic growth.

In addition, Ngabi will discuss how GOC is unlocking value from marginal fields, further demonstrating the critical role of national oil companies (NOCs) in optimizing Africa’s vast energy resources.

Gabon Oil Company has emerged as a strategic player in Africa’s energy sector. One of its most notable achievements in recent years is the acquisition of Assala Energy’s assets in 2023.

This acquisition significantly bolstered GOC’s portfolio, adding seven onshore licenses, a well-developed pipeline network, and the Gamba export terminal.

The move has also strengthened Gabon’s production and export capacity, positioning the country as a more prominent oil producer on the African continent.

Ngabi’s address at CEIF will not only highlight these achievements but also emphasize Gabon’s upstream growth. The rapid development of BW Energy’s Hibiscus South satellite field exemplifies Gabon’s ability to unlock new production opportunities.

This project, which added 5,000-6,000 bpd within just five months of discovery, reflects the country’s commitment to efficient resource development and its potential to achieve production targets.

Advancing Africa’s Energy Value Chain

The forum will provide a platform to discuss Africa’s growing role in global energy transitions. While oil and gas remain central to economic development in countries like Gabon, efforts to promote sustainability and reduce carbon emissions are equally important.

Gabon’s initiatives, such as flaring reduction through LPG projects and investments in gas monetization, demonstrate a balanced approach to resource development and environmental responsibility.

“National oil companies like GOC play a pivotal role in transforming the continent’s energy value chain and positioning Africa as a competitive global energy leader.
“The inclusion of regional stakeholders like Gabon emphasizes the interconnected nature of Central Africa’s energy future and the need for unified progress.”
James Chester, CEO of Energy Capital & Power

The CEIF 2025, set to bring together key players from across Central Africa, is more than just an event; it is a platform for actionable solutions, partnerships, and strategies to secure the continent’s energy future.

Gabon’s participation reinforces the importance of unified progress and cross-border cooperation in unlocking the full potential of Africa’s resources.

As the energy sector in Central Africa continues to evolve, leaders like Marcellin Simba Ngabi and companies like Gabon Oil Company will play a defining role in transforming the region into a competitive global energy powerhouse.

The spotlight will be on Brazzaville in March 2025, as stakeholders gather to explore opportunities that will shape Africa’s energy ambitions for decades to come.