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A Fusion of Music, Fashion, and Cultural Pride as Vlisco Unveils “The Garden of Sisterhood” Featuring Fally Ipupa’s New Hit “MAYANGA”

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Vlisco recently launched "The Garden of Sisterhood"
Vlisco recently launched "The Garden of Sisterhood"

Fashion and music intertwined in a breathtaking tribute to unity and self-expression as Vlisco, an iconic Dutch textile brand with over a century of influence in African fashion, unveiled its latest campaign dubbed “The Garden of Sisterhood.” This campaign came to life through the launch of “MAYANGA”, a mesmerizing new music video by Congolese superstar Fally Ipupa, proudly produced by Vlisco.

Launched in celebration of Women’s Month on March 18th, “The Garden of Sisterhood” draws inspiration from “MAYANGA,” a song that encapsulates the beauty, strength, and solidarity that flourish when women come together. Vlisco, with its rich legacy in African fashion, transforms this sentiment into a collection of intricate floral motifs and soft, elegant colour palettes, symbolizing the individuality and resilience that bloom within a supportive community.

Vlisco recently launched "The Garden of Sisterhood"
Vlisco recently launched “The Garden of Sisterhood”

Filmed in Ivory Coast, “MAYANGA” extends the essence of Vlisco’s campaign beyond textiles, bringing together the worlds of music and fashion in a poetic homage to cultural pride and artistic expression. At the heart of this collaboration is Fally Ipupa, whose signature blend of soulful Congolese rumba and contemporary sounds provides the perfect soundtrack for the campaign’s message of empowerment and unity.

This visionary project also features two celebrated African creatives: Ivorian fashion designer Loza Maléombho and Nigerian director Daniel Obasi. Their combined talents elevate the campaign’s aesthetic, with Maléombho’s avant-garde designs paying tribute to generations of African women, while Obasi’s striking visual storytelling captures the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood.

For Fally Ipupa, this collaboration is a deeply meaningful artistic endeavour:
“Collaborating with Vlisco has been a beautiful experience. They understood my vision of working with talented artists and honouring the beautiful women who wear Vlisco fabrics. By creating exclusive designs for me and the remarkable women in the cast, Vlisco really brought our artistic vision to life, harmoniously fusing music and fashion.”

Fally Ipupa during the launch of the "Garden of Sisterhood" by Vlisco.
Fally Ipupa during the launch of the “Garden of Sisterhood” by Vlisco.

The “Garden of Sisterhood” collection is now available in select stores and at www.vlisco.com. With each piece, Vlisco continues its tradition of merging heritage with innovation, offering women a medium for bold self-expression through meticulously crafted fabrics that are both timeless and contemporary.

Marlou van Engelen, Vlisco’s Creative Director, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in African fashion:
‘’It’s been an honour to collaborate with Fally Ipupa and the creative team behind the ‘Garden of Sisterhood’ campaign. His song ‘MAYANGA’ perfectly reflects our admiration for the women who shaped us, inspired us, and meant so much to us. For us, it’s not just about fashion; it is about the stories told through our beautiful prints. And I believe the best stories are always told together.’’

Models rocking some of Vlisco’s fabrics.

For nearly two centuries, Vlisco has been at the forefront of African fashion, creating over 350,000 unique textile designs that have become cherished cultural treasures. Originally founded in 1846 in the Netherlands, Vlisco’s wax-print fabrics have been embraced by African communities, symbolizing identity, storytelling, and heritage.

Through “The Garden of Sisterhood,” Vlisco reinforces its commitment to celebrating African creativity while fostering unity through fashion, music, and culture.

Interview with Rehanna Ngom: The Visionary Producer Behind the Short Film – The Prophecy (Part Two)

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Rehanna Ngom, the producer behind The Prophecy.
Rehanna Ngom, the producer behind The Prophecy.

Welcome to part two of our interview with the brilliant Senegalese-born producer Rehanna Ngom. Ngom is the mind behind the short film The Prophecy.

AGN: African horror is gaining global recognition but is still underrepresented in film. How do you think The Prophecy contributes to shaping the African horror genre?

Ngom: I hope The Prophecy can be one of the precursors of African horror before the genre fully takes off – because it is taking off. But reducing it to just horror feels limiting, as it also blends adventure and fantasy. Moves like Paramount Pictures acquiring Children of Blood and Bone are encouraging for filmmakers like me.

I still have so much to learn and create—I’m still young. But I’m proud that The Prophecy is my first real work in the film world. Seeing other creators embrace the genre and gain recognition as well is incredible. It’s a beautiful moment, and I hope we can all keep inspiring one another.

AGN: Your production company, Studio Réveil, carries a name that loosely translates to “awakening.” What vision do you have for it, and how do you see it shaping African cinema?

Ngom: I love that you caught that. I am obsessed with dreams and sleep, and “awakening” with Studio Réveil is my mission in the real world. My company is here to bridge gaps, to elevate African creators and narratives on the global stage—where they’ve too often been pushed to the side. Our cinema is deemed as “exotic”, it is “inclusion” to have us at festivals, but we are so much more than that. I want to redefine how our stories are perceived. African cinema can be just as entertaining, thrilling, impactful, and inspiring as any other. With Studio Réveil, I aim to bring unconventional African stories to the screen, working with creatives across the continent and globally who share this vision.

AGN: You’ve showcased The Prophecy at various film festivals worldwide. What has been the audience’s response, and have any reactions surprised you?

Ngom: The response has been generally positive, which is encouraging. It is a bit daunting to put work out there – especially something you’ve poured your soul into – it means exposing it to criticism and judgment. But I’m learning that the audience is an essential part of filmmaking.

The Prophecy has been described as innovative because it tackles sexual violence, trauma, and misogynoir. It has stirred conversations in some spaces, which makes me happy because that means it made people think.

One reaction that truly surprised me was a scene between Tabara and her grandmother. When Tabara tells her she’s seeing a monster in her dreams, her grandmother reacts in a way I intended to be serious. But at the U.S. premiere, the audience laughed. Meanwhile, African audiences saw it as an expression of genuine worry. And interestingly, when we were filming, my actress felt the reaction carried disapproval.

It’s fascinating how a single moment can be read so differently, completely shifting the energy of a scene depending on cultural context!

AGN: You’re considering a full-length version of The Prophecy. Can you give us a sneak peek into what we can expect if the film expands?

Ngom: Yes, a feature is in the works! We’re still in the very early stages of development, but this full-length version dives much deeper into the ancestral dimension of the story. This time, Tabara gains the ability to travel back in time, uncovering the story of her royal ancestor and introducing us to a fantastical African kingdom.

The feature expands on everything, more characters, richer family dynamics, and a fully fleshed-out backstory for the djinn. It’s an exciting adventure that blends fantasy and horror, with Tabara fully stepping into her role as a true heroine.

AGN: What was the most challenging part of making this film? Were there any unexpected moments or obstacles during production that shaped the final product?

Ngom: The most challenging part was having to do it all by myself—self-producing is no joke! Being both the producer and creator of a project takes involvement on a different level. The experience toughened me up. As the director, I also had to make sure my team was happy, and communication wasn’t always smooth, especially with so many emotions involved. When you add in the different cultural influences, it becomes such a unique experience.

The limited budget for such a rich and ambitious story was also a challenge. But I’m grateful I got to experience it, running the machine to the end. I must thank a few souls who helped me along the way—without them, this film would never have been made.

AGN: Beyond horror, are there other genres or themes you’d like to explore in future projects?

Ngom: I am diving deep into fantasy. I love magical stories like Harry Potter and Dune. I want to create worlds like that, inspired by African folklore, with a few monsters but also divine creatures, landscapes, textures… I want my stories to show the beauty of African mythology, which has already been too demonised in its history.

AGN: What advice would Rehanna Ngom give young African filmmakers wanting to enter the industry?

Muster up all your courage and go for it! The industry is calling for us, and it needs our voices. We may have to push through barriers and overcome some obstacles, but we can make it happen together. Stay determined; remember: we have what it takes to create the space we deserve.

AGN: Where can people watch The Prophecy, and how can they follow your work?

Ngom: It was just released on YouTube and is now available for everybody to watch. I post a lot of my work and my life on Instagram, so I would tell anybody who wants to keep up to follow me, Rehanna Ngom, @reh.eye!

AGN: Lastly, if you were to describe The Prophecy in three words, what would they be?

Ngom: Dreamy, mystical, healing.

Stream Africa Podcast: Youth and leadership in Africa – Episode 01

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Stream Africa Podcast

Stream Africa Podcast Episode 01 – Sam Abuya with our special guest: Edwin Kegoli youth leader, policy and political analyst.

Join us as we dive deep into Africa’s most compelling stories, bringing you the latest in business, culture, technology, and innovation. From groundbreaking entrepreneurs to cultural pioneers, policy makers, and changemakers, we spotlight the voices shaping Africa’s future.

Whether you’re passionate about emerging markets, social impact, or the next big trend, Stream Africa delivers insightful conversations, expert analysis, and untold narratives that matter.

Stay tuned, stay informed, and stay connected—because Africa is not just rising, it’s leading! 

Brought to you by Stream Africa.

Africa Global News Publication

Welcome to the Stream Africa Podcast – The Pulse of the Continent! 

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Stream Africa Podcast

Stream Africa Podcast – Join us as we dive deep into Africa’s most compelling stories, bringing you the latest in business, culture, technology, and innovation. From groundbreaking entrepreneurs to cultural pioneers, policy makers, and changemakers, we spotlight the voices shaping Africa’s future.

Whether you’re passionate about emerging markets, social impact, or the next big trend, Stream Africa delivers insightful conversations, expert analysis, and untold narratives that matter.

Stay tuned, stay informed, and stay connected—because Africa is not just rising, it’s leading! 

Stream Africa Podcast

Africa Global News Publication

Interview with Rehanna Ngom: The Visionary Producer Behind the Short Film – The Prophecy (Part One)

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Rehanna Ngom, the producer behind The Prophecy.
Rehanna Ngom, the producer behind The Prophecy.

Our Chief Editor, Sam Abuya, recently interviewed Rehanna Ngom, the brilliant Senegalese-born producer behind the short film The Prophecy. In this insightful conversation, she shares her journey in the world of film, her inspirations, and what it takes to bring powerful stories to life. Here’s part one of that interview.  

AGN: Your journey spans multiple continents – growing up in Senegal, studying in America and Europe, and working with major institutions like Studio Canal UK. While briefly telling us about yourself, how have these diverse experiences influenced your approach to filmmaking?

Rehanna: I am grateful to have been able to travel a lot in my life. It has opened my eyes to landscapes, people and culture. I do have the soul of a wanderer and I try to reflect that in my films. More than just aesthetics, I love working with people from different backgrounds—it makes the creative process richer and more meaningful. The team on The Prophecy brought together an exceptionally diverse group, featuring talent from seven different nationalities spread between America, Africa, Asia and Europe. Technology also plays a big role in how I see and make films. It is what keeps us all connected, and without it, so many of these collaborations wouldn’t even be possible.

AGN: Rehanna Ngom, you’re a producer, writer, and director – a true creative powerhouse. Let’s start with your journey. What inspired you to pursue film?

Rehanna: What drew me to film was the desire to give people a moment of escape—to help them feel seen, understood, and inspired. That’s what film did for me when confronted with the culture shock and solitude that came with constantly being on the move. It became a way for me to find a connection with the characters on the screen, which I was missing in real life.

How did your studies in International Relations shape your storytelling?

Rehanna: My background in international relations shapes the way I present my work. Seeing how black communities evolve and adapt in an ever-changing world has opened my eyes to a sociocultural perspective of the world—both in Africa and the diaspora. I explore themes like violence against women, the intergenerational impact of colonialism, and the complex relationship between modernity and tradition.

AGN: Before we dive into The Prophecy, tell us: What draws you to filmmaking? Was there a defining moment when you knew this was your calling?

Rehanna: The moment I knew filmmaking was my calling was when I experienced culture shock for the first time. I had left Senegal to live in Miami, a city completely different from what I had imagined. I didn’t know anyone, and the gap between who I was and trying to express that to people who spoke a different language was incredibly frustrating.

I’ll never forget how lost I felt – 80% of conversations went over my head because they were full of references I didn’t understand! But cinema became my bridge to connection. Through the stories on screen, I felt less alone. I could spend hours immersed in films, finding comfort in characters and narratives. That’s when I decided to pursue a minor in film studies at my university.

AGN: You’ve worked with major studios like Studio Canal UK and NGOs like Save The Children. How have these experiences influenced the themes and messages in your films?

Rehanna: These two experiences had very different impacts on me. The first opened my eyes to the business and marketing side of cinema – something I had never considered before. For me, filmmaking has always been about art. However, being introduced to this very real side of the industry still serves me today as I navigate producing and distributing my own films while managing my career.

The second experience, on the other hand, was the complete opposite. The financial part wasn’t the heart of it, the only goal was to make something to raise awareness about the situation of people who truly needed it. It taught me how to address important issues with care and sensitivity, a lesson that continues to shape my approach to storytelling.

AGN: The Prophecy is deeply rooted in horror and African folklore, but it also explores mental health themes like anxiety and trauma. What drew you to this story, and why did you tell it through horror?

Rehanna: I chose horror to capture the imagination of the five-year-old me who would hear scary stories and struggle to sleep at night. Tales of spirits that see you even when you can’t see them—they terrified me but also fascinated me. I have a vivid imagination and dream a lot, sometimes involving nightmares. In a way, exploring horror as a filmmaker is my way of healing that part of me. It’s me making peace with what once scared me. Mental health is also a subject close to my heart. Like everyone, I’ve had my struggles, but in Africa, mental health remains taboo – often linked to the spiritual in a way that can demonise it. Through my films, I want to shine a light on these issues, telling stories where protagonists confront their deepest fears, only to realise they are stronger than what haunts them. In the end, horror becomes a path to healing.

AGN: The protagonist, Tabara, is a Senegalese immigrant in America who embarks on a journey back to Africa to find healing. How much of Tabara’s story is inspired by personal experiences or observations?

Rehanna: Tabara’s story is deeply personal, inspired by my own experience as a Senegalese woman searching for her identity while navigating multiple cultural influences. Growing up, I was often called a “toubab bu niul” or a “bounty,” (black outside, white inside) which made me feel different—like the way I was expressing my identity wasn’t Senegalese enough. But when I was abroad, I also felt out of place. Through my travels and conversations with other Black individuals, I realised that this struggle with identity is something we all share in different ways. For some, tracing their roots is difficult because of slavery. For others, defining who they are today is complicated by the lasting effects of colonisation and media imperialism.

At its core, African identity today is deeply multicultural, and navigating that can feel like being pulled in different directions. That’s what I explore through Tabara’s journey.

AGN: The film was shot in New York and Senegal. How did you balance these two locations to capture Tabara’s transformation visually and emotionally?

Rehanna: I intentionally made the scenes in New York darker and colder to reflect Tabara’s depressed mental state. All the dream sequences take place in America and have a very meta feel—she’s always indoors, almost trapped. One of my favourite shots in the film uses a fisheye lens, reinforcing the theme of technology and modernity shaping her life in America.

In Senegal, however, she is transported into an old world – one that represents tradition and origins, a place where she hopes to draw strength. The visuals are filled with nature—nature, nature, nature. Even the supernatural elements feel deeply organic: roots, oils, trance states, earthquakes, and raw power. They reflect the thin line between reality and the supernatural in the African imaginary, a world Tabara is slowly immersing herself in.

As she starts embracing The Prophecy and the healing ritual, her transformation becomes visible – she begins wearing braids and a djelaba, symbolizing her growing connection with her African identity.

Part two of this interview with Rehanna Ngom is coming soon…

Meet Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah; the Best Dressed-man and ‘African Ambassador’ in the NFL

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Photos of Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah on and off the pitch.
Photos of Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah on and off the pitch.

In the high-octane world of the National Football League (NFL), where athletic prowess often takes centre stage, Cleveland Browns linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah has distinguished himself not only through his on-field performance but also by becoming a beacon of cultural pride. Embracing his Ghanaian heritage, Owusu-Koramoah has seamlessly incorporated traditional African attire into his pregame wardrobe, turning heads and sparking conversations about identity and representation in professional sports.

Born on November 4, 1999, in Hampton, Virginia, to a Ghanaian father and an American mother, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah’s early life was steeped in spirituality and discipline. Despite this foundation, his upbringing did not heavily emphasise his Ghanaian roots. It wasn’t until his collegiate years at Notre Dame that he actively sought out and embraced his ancestral heritage. This journey of self-discovery led him to delve into Ghanaian spirituality, ideology, and fashion, profoundly influencing his personal and professional identity.

Owusu-Koramoah’s transformation is perhaps most visibly reflected in his distinctive fashion choices. Departing from conventional athletic wear, he has introduced a vibrant array of traditional African garments for his pre-game appearances. From the regal kente cloth, symbolising royalty and unity, to the intricately designed kaftans and kufis, each ensemble is meticulously selected to convey a narrative of cultural richness and personal significance. Collaborating with artisans and stylists, including a Beninese designer who provides crowns and jewellery, he ensures authenticity and respect for the traditions he showcases. Notably, Owusu-Koramoah plans to launch his own fashion line, “Abravo,” to bring African-inspired designs to a broader audience.

Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah in an African attire.
Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah in an African attire.

The linebacker’s commitment to honouring his heritage extends beyond personal expression; it is a powerful statement within the NFL and the broader sports community. By consistently presenting himself in traditional African attire, Owusu-Koramoah challenges the status quo, encouraging conversations about diversity, representation, and the significance of cultural pride. His efforts have not gone unnoticed; fans and commentators alike have praised his unique style, and he was recently voted the most stylish player in the NFL, a testament to his influence both on and off the field.

Owusu-Koramoah’s journey highlights the importance of embracing one’s roots and utilising one’s platform to promote understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures. Through his sartorial choices, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah not only pays tribute to his ancestors but also inspires others to explore and celebrate their own identities. In a league where uniformity often dominates, his vibrant displays of heritage remind us of the beauty found in cultural diversity and the power of personal expression.

In essence, Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah exemplifies how professional athletes can transcend their roles, becoming ambassadors of culture and catalysts for meaningful dialogue through the universal language of fashion.

Silas Adekunle; from Building the World’s First Intelligent Gaming Robot to Being the Highest-Paid Robotics Engineer

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Nigeria's Silas Adekunle is the highest paid robotics engineer in the world.
Nigeria's Silas Adekunle is the highest-paid robotics engineer in the world.

Silas Adekunle, a Nigerian-born robotics engineer, has emerged as a pioneering figure in robotics, earning recognition as one of the world’s highest-paid professionals in his field. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Adekunle moved to the United Kingdom at the age of 12, where he developed a profound interest in robotics and technology.

Adekunle, who has become a household name in Nigeria, pursued his passion academically, obtaining a first-class degree in Robotics from the University of the West of England, Bristol. During his studies, he co-founded Reach Robotics in 2013, aiming to revolutionise the gaming industry by integrating advanced robotics with augmented reality. This vision culminated in the creation of MekaMon, the world’s first intelligent gaming robot, which seamlessly combines physical robotics with virtual gaming experiences.

MekaMon’s innovative design and functionality attracted considerable attention, leading to a landmark partnership with Apple in 2017. This exclusive distribution agreement made MekaMon available in Apple stores across the United States and the United Kingdom, marking a significant milestone in consumer robotics. The initial launch witnessed sales of 500 units, generating £7.5 million in revenue.

Despite its success, Reach Robotics faced challenges in the consumer robotics market, resulting in its closure in 2019. Undeterred, the 34-year-old Silas Adekunle redirected his focus to education and technological development in Africa. He founded Awarri, an AI and robotics company dedicated to empowering young Africans with the skills and tools necessary to thrive in the evolving technological landscape. Awarri aims to democratise access to advanced technologies, foster innovation, and address local issues through homegrown solutions.

Silas Adekunle’s contributions have received widespread recognition. In 2018, he was included in Forbes’ “30 Under 30 Europe: Technology” list and was named among the Financial Times’ “Top 100 Minority Ethnic Leaders in Technology.” His journey from a young enthusiast in Lagos to a globally acknowledged robotics engineer exemplifies the power of innovation and resilience.

Through his endeavours, Silas Adekunle continues to inspire a new generation of African technologists by emphasising the importance of education, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of one’s passions.

Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, 59, Beats 80-Year-Old Raila Odinga in AUC Chairmanship Race

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The new Chairperson of the African Union Mahmoud Ali Yousouf of Djibouti.
The new Chairperson of the African Union Mahmoud Ali Yousouf of Djibouti.

Djibouti’s Foreign Minister, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, has been elected as the new Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) in a closely contested election during the African Union (AU) summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Youssouf secured the position against prominent contenders, including Kenya’s former Prime Minister, 80-year-old Raila Odinga, and Madagascar’s ex-Foreign Minister, Richard Randriamandrato.

Kenya's former Prime Minister Raila Odinga withdrew from the contest after six rounds of voting.
Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Odinga withdrew from the contest after six rounds of voting.

Mahmoud Youssouf will now succeed Moussa Faki of Chad, who has led the AUC since 2017.

The 59-year-old Mahmoud Youssouf has been Djibouti’s Foreign Minister since 2005 and previously served as the nation’s ambassador to Egypt. His extensive diplomatic experience spanning more than 20 years has largely shaped his career. Upon his election, Djibouti’s Economy and Finance Minister, Ilyas Dawaleh, announced the victory on social media, expressing confidence in Youssouf’s leadership.

The election was a significant event at the African Union summit, which primarily focused on addressing escalating conflicts, particularly the war in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The election of Mahmoud Youssouf is viewed as a strategic move to strengthen the AU’s role in conflict resolution and enhance its global influence. In his campaign, the career diplomat emphasised the importance of African representation with permanent seats on the U.N. Security Council, advocating for the continent’s voice in international affairs.

Raila Odinga, a veteran Kenyan politician, opposition leader and former Prime Minister, was a formidable candidate, receiving endorsements from several African leaders. His campaign centred on making the AU more people-oriented and enhancing intra-African trade. Despite his loss, Odinga’s participation underscored his enduring influence in African politics.

The tenure of Mahmoud Youssouf as AUC Chairperson will involve tackling pressing challenges, including political instability in various African nations and implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). His leadership is anticipated to steer the AU towards greater unity and proactive engagement in continental issues.

CLG Experts Break Down Congo’s Upcoming Gas Code and Investment Prospects

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Congo

BRAZZAVILLE, Republic of the Congo, February 12, 2025/AGN/ – The upcoming Congo Energy & Investment Forum 2025, set for March 24-26 in Brazzaville, will feature critical discussions on the much-anticipated Gas Code a regulatory milestone designed to enhance gas exploration, production, and commercialization. This framework is expected to boost investor confidence and unlock the full potential of the country’s vast natural gas reserves.

Leading these discussions is CLG Congo, a premier legal and commercial advisory firm specializing in the energy sector. In an exclusive interview with Energy Capital & Power (ECP) (www.EnergyCapitalPower.com), Yves Ollivier, Managing Director, and Daoudou Mohammad, Director of Tax & Legal at CLG, shared insights into the Gas Code, Congo’s regulatory landscape, and emerging investment opportunities.

CLG’s Role in Congo’s Energy Sector

What is CLG’s involvement in the energy industry, and what are its recent activities?

CLG Congo is a leading provider of legal, tax, and commercial advisory services for oil and gas companies. In 2024, the firm played a crucial role in Trident Energy’s acquisition of Chevron and TotalEnergies’ interests in key oil fields, including Lianzi, Nkosa, Nsoko 2, and Moho Bilondo. As a result, Trident now holds:

  • 15.75% in Lianzi Field
  • 85% in Nkosa and Nsoko 2 Fields
  • 21.5% in Moho-Bilondo Field

To expand its network and enhance investor engagement, CLG actively participates in major energy events, including African Energy Week in Cape Town, and proudly serves as legal counsel for CEIF 2025.

How Congo’s Legislative Framework Affects Energy Investments

How does the Republic of Congo’s regulatory framework impact foreign investment in hydrocarbons?

With 80% of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Congo stemming from oil and gas, the government has implemented various measures to improve investment conditions. These include:

  • Establishing a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Agency
  • Creating a Ministry for International Cooperation & PPPs

The 2016 Hydrocarbons Code introduced competitive bidding for exploration rights, enhancing transparency and investor confidence. However, a Gas Code is still needed to provide a comprehensive legal framework for natural gas investments. The current draft, developed with international institutions, aims to streamline regulations and attract foreign capital, making the industry more structured and competitive.

Fiscal Incentives for Energy Investors in Congo

What tax and financial benefits does Congo offer to energy investors?

The government provides various fiscal incentives to attract oil and gas investments, including:
✅ Corporate tax exemptions and progressive tax reductions under Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs)
✅ Customs incentives, such as the IM5 temporary import regime, allowing tax-free equipment imports if re-exported after use

These cost-cutting measures enhance profitability and make the Congolese energy sector more appealing to investors.

Key Expectations for the Gas Code and Regulatory Reforms

What are the main expectations from the Gas Code, and how will it improve investment conditions?

The Gas Code, set for approval in 2025, will provide:
🔹 A structured legal framework for gas monetization, fiscal policies, and resource management
🔹 Clear guidelines for foreign and domestic investments in natural gas
🔹 Support for the Gas Master Plan, developed by SNPC and McKinsey, to boost gas utilization and attract investments

A major regulatory challenge is the 2023 VAT decree (2023-1337), which extends Value-Added Tax (VAT) to previously exempt oil and gas operations. Ongoing negotiations between government officials and industry leaders aim to reach a mutually beneficial resolution.

Local Content Development in Oil & Gas

How is local workforce development progressing under the current legal framework?

Despite the 2019 Local Content Decrees, enforcement remains a key challenge. The law mandates:
✅ 70% Congolese employment in management roles

However, a lack of compliance monitoring leads to inconsistent implementation. Strengthening verification processes is essential for sustainable workforce development in Congo’s oil and gas industry.

Investment Prospects at the Congo Energy & Investment Forum 2025

What are the key expectations for CEIF 2025?

The Congo Energy & Investment Forum 2025 will be a major platform for:
📢 Engaging with foreign investors and showcasing Congo’s gas potential
📢 Highlighting investment opportunities in projects like Eni’s Tango FLNG and Wing Wah’s Banga Kayo Gas Project
📢 Advancing discussions on regulatory reforms, including:

  • The Gas Code
  • The VAT decree
  • Hydrocarbons Code updates

With proven gas reserves of 284 billion cubic meters, Congo presents immense opportunities for global energy investors. CEIF 2025 will facilitate direct dialogue between policymakers and industry leaders, ensuring a more competitive and attractive investment environment.

Stay updated with Africa Global News for the latest energy insights and investment opportunities.

Africa Global News

Appreciate Your Detractors

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Appreciate

Dear Destiny Friends,

“I don’t know the key to success, but the key to failure is pleasing everyone”

Life has many twists and turns. The ability to successfully navigate them will usher any individual into a whole new dimension of existence. This is because sometimes, when we experience misfortunes, we think there’s a force working against us, yes, it might be true to some extent, but the truth is, it might be something totally unrelated to what one might be thinking. One’s mindset has a way of deceiving them, especially when they are not properly informed.

Whenever we experience misfortunes, or life doesn’t seem to align with our plans, expectations and desires, consider thinking out of the box to know what happened, instead of apportioning blame.

For instance, ask yourself if you made a mistake; if the answer is yes, find out if you could have done differently. Again, did someone contribute to it or masterminded the act; was it a natural cause; was it because of a government policy; was it a case of Karma working against you; or is it a case of detractors trying to set you up for failure. One’s ability to decipher the right answers to these questions will go a long way to fixing the issue.

For the sake of this article, we shall focus on detractors to x-ray their role in orchestrating one’s destiny. It’s generally normal for us to hate our enemies or anyone who has a negative vibe or energy towards us, but the truth remains that everyone we meet in life has a role the universe or destiny has planted or positioned them to play. The ability to know this truth will go a long way towards appreciating life.

It should be known that detractors are not as bad as they appear, yes. Some may be bad, agreed, but some are there to help us do better. Isn’t it true that only our true friends will drive us to do better? Whenever a mentor, friend, parent, supervisor, benefactor, or even your enemy admonishes you, please don’t take it personal. Look at their intent as opposed to their words.

My beloved mother will always say, when someone is speaking, always look at their heart as opposed to their words. Words can literally mean nothing if our actions don’t correlate with our words.

But when the criticism is from a place of disrespect or disdain, consider removing yourself from that space until the person receives sense. According to Uche Okorie, a Maritime lawyer, “When you are criticized objectively, examine it. If it is untrue, ignore it. If it is unfair, resist the temptation to be irritated. If it is ignorant, just smile. If it is justified, then it is NOT criticism, LEARN FROM IT!

It’s only myopic and uninformed minds that will take corrections from a negative perspective. Progressive minds welcome constructive criticism because it serves as a second eye for them. It is sad to see people who should appreciate the role of detractors in their life acting funny because they allow their ego to rule them. Hear this from me, if you have someone who will correct you on the right way, and because you feel you don’t like the person, or the person is younger than you, or whatever reason you have, you are actually doing yourself a disservice because if you had taken the opportunity to learn, maybe an opportunity would have popped out in the nearest future.

On a personal note, I have experienced detractors in my life when I was serving as the Public Relations Officer for the Nigerian Lawyers Association. Let me make this disclosure; my detractors were right in their concerns because my writing skills were indeed horrible at the said time, however, what I didn’t really like was the approach they used in correcting me. It came across to me in a sarcastic, derogatory and disdainful manner to the extent I almost felt like leaving the association, but for the influence of mentors who I regard as life savers, I was able to manage the situation and today, when I reference back, I’m glad I didn’t resign. The whole experience has really shaped my approach and outlook to life, especially when I mentor the younger generation and relate with people who ordinarily think life has no space for them.

Here’s my advice, please stop hating your enemies, they will make you stronger, especially when they want to see you fail. Your detractors have a role to play in your life. Without them, your life would be depressingly boring. You might not be inspired to do better. For instance, one of my driving forces was being told I was a horrible writer, and life might not be easy for me to live in America. I was even told to consider going back to Nigeria. All these I guess, came from a place of love if you look at my situation at the said time, but guess what, man is not God because nobody knows tomorrow.

If I was told I will have two books to my name and a co-author to another book, I won’t believe it. Maybe God has used the books to send a subtle message to my detractors. Furthermore, a horrible writer is now a prolific writer, who is read globally every week.

Let me ask you, what would Tom be without Jerry? How interesting will a James Bond movie be without a villain? If not for satan, many of us will not be serving God. If not for the lion that runs fast, the antelope would not run faster.

Let’s take it a little further, there was a race I watched where Usain Bolt was running, he was looking at his colleagues while sprinting because they were inspiring him to run faster, when he looks back, and sees his rival closing in, he runs faster. Without his opponents, Usain Bolt wouldn’t have broken records. The moral here is that our enemies are as essential to us as oxygen is to life. Without them, one may never fulfil their potential or life’s purpose.

In conclusion, as you journey through, and experience life, always see your detractors as the necessary evil you can’t avoid on your way to success.

Henry Ukazu writes from New York. He works with the New York City Department of Correction as the Legal Coordinator.  He’s the founder of Gloemi. He’s a Transformative Human Capacity and Mindset coach. He is also a public speaker, youth advocate, creative writer and author of Design Your Destiny Design Your  and Unleash Your Destiny .  He can be reached via info@gloemi.com

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