Investment
Facilitation Summit
Republic of
Congo Brazzaville
In partnership with
Radisson Blu Hotel, Brazzaville 15-16 March 2018
Theme
Maximizing Untapped Potentials for Investment
In Collaboration with the Chamber of Commerce of Brazzaville
Honorary Consulate of
the Republic of the Congo
Brazzaville
in the United Kingdom
THE REPUBLIC OF CONGO BRAZZAVILLE The Republic of the Congo, also known as Congo-Brazzaville, or simply Congo, is a country situated in Central Africa, and is bordered by five countries including Gabon, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Angola. The country has access to a large sea border with a deep sea port in Pointe-Noire, , the economic capital of the country, as opposed to Brazzaville, its political capital. The Congo-Brazzaville was formerly part of the French colony of Equatorial Africa, until in 1960 when the country accessed inde-pendence, and the former colony of French Congo became the Republic of the Congo.
Political outlook The only risk of political instability would be where the current President Denis SASSOU NGUESSO suddenly leaves office. He is indeed the executive authority and as the head of state all power is concentrated heavily on his hands and on his government. Under the constitution, the president current seven-year term is his last and he has already spend one year so the remaining six year should provide political stability.
Economic outlook/Forecast For the past few years, the economic policy has been forecasted following unbinding advice from the IMF. The IMF-guided policy directions have prioritised on fiscal stability, whereby higher proportion of spending had been directed into “pro-poor” and “pro-growth” social programmes in fields such as education and health, in line with the country’s poverty-reduction strategy. The Republic of the Congo Brazzaville is quite poorly diversified. In the previous years, commodity producer has heavily been dependent on oil, even though oil’s production has fallen to an estimated 60% of GDP since 2013. The economy is a mixture of subsistence farming and hunting, an industrial sector based largely on oil and support services, and government spending. Oil has supplanted forestry as the mainstay of the economy, providing a major share of government revenues and exports. Natural gas is increasingly being converted to electricity rather than being flared, greatly improving energy prospects. New mining projects, particularly iron ore, which entered production in late 2013, may add as much as $1 billion to annual government revenue. Economic reform efforts have been undertaken... Since 2006, the Congolese authorities have made substantial investments in infrastructure, particularly in the electricity and transportation sectors: construction and repair of roads and airports, hydroelectric dams, electrical distribution infrastructure, and so on. In 2014, the investment budget is set at 1,991.8 billion Congolese francs (CFA), about US $4 billion, amounting to 28.8% of GDP. The country is now embarking in a programme of Identifying and Maximizing the Areas of Untapped Potentials for Investment. GDP growth has accelerated from 4% in 2014 to 7.5% in 2015, with the support of the expansion of non-oil relat-ed sectors e.g. mining, potash and rubber.
Monetary Policy Monetary policy is managed by the regional central bank, Banque des Etats de l’Afrique Centrale (BEAC), which prioritises in controlling inflation and maintaining the CFA franc’s peg to the Euro. Historically, the BEAC has broadly tracked the European Central Bank (ECB) policy, an approach that is expected to continue.
Mining In April 2005, the Republic of the Congo introduced a new Mining Code under Law 4-2005. The new mining code offers attractive terms and establishes a clear regime from exploration and ex-ploitation agreements. The mining code allows foreign entities to control mining operations. This represented the first major over-haul to the mining code since 1965. The mining code also gives, upon granting a mining licence, a 10% non-contributing stake in all mining projects to the Congo-lese state. The government has the right to purchase addition-al equity, but to date has never exercised this right. Royalties and taxes Royalties are calculated on the export value of the resource based on the following schedule: Ferrous and non-ferrous metals (including phosphate) taxed at 3% Precious metals and stones taxed at 5% Mineral and thermal waters taxed at 1% Company profit taxes 20% for quarry operations 30% for mining operations Article 98 of the Mining Code requires the state and the holder of an exploitation licence to enter into a mining agreement (“Convention”) with the Congolese government which clearly establishes the rights and obligations of each party, and grants concessions such as tax-free periods. Once an exploitation li-cence for the Project has been granted and following negotiation and cooperation of advisers, the licence holder and the govern-ment will agree on the terms of the convention. The terms of the convention typically require the state to undertake, as soon as possible after signing the convention, to submit the convention to the Congolese Parliament for ratification and adoption as a state law (“Ratification Law”), and no later than three months from the date of its presentation to Parliament.
International relations. For the past decades or since independence, the Congo has developed strong relations with France as the main commercial partner. However, relations with France have in recent years come under increasing pressure, as relations with China have deepened since China has increased its stakes in Congo’s oil, forestry and mining. The Congo aims to continue exploring and establishing closer commercial ties with other emerging economies, especially in Asia, Latin America, Turkey and the Gulf as investors from these regions seek to explore opportuni-ties, and as the country seeks to reduce its economic depend-ence on France, the US and the EU. Relations with its neighbours including Angola, Cameroon, Chad, Gabon, are fairly stable, and the Congo has been at the fore front of helping with the peace process in countries such as the Central African Republic. Relations with its immediate neigh-bour, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are very stable if not close. The Congo aims to work closely with its neighbour DRC on peace process issues as it is aware that, due to the closeness between the two closest capital cities in the world (5 minutes away by speed boat), instability in DRC, particularly in Kinshasa could encourage unrest in Brazzaville.
In partnership with the Chamber of Commerce of Brazzaville
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ABOUT THE SUMMIT Proposed by the London Honorary Consulate of the Republic of the Congo Brazzaville in the United Kingdom and in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce of Brazzaville, and in collaboration with Jill International Consultancies Services, the Investment Facilitation Summit Congo Brazzaville will bring together entrepreneurs, executives and investors from across the world to Brazzaville for two days of intense discussions around investment opportunities in Congo, particularly around Maximising Untapped Potential for Investments. In conjunction with key government ministries the event is aimed at combining resources and expertise to put together this Investment Facilitation Summit of the year 2018 in Brazzaville. The Summit will discuss several primary topics for potential investments priorities and will feature executives of some global large and mediums size investments firms and private individuals who will share the opportunity with key Congolese officials in charge of executing the government’s economic development agenda. The Summit programme will include a two-days of genuine discussion designed to introduce government officials and local businesses to potential investors and vice versa, and will focus on key economic development issues including: Agriculture and Agro-business, Mining/energy and Oil,
Construction Infrastructure, Transport, Tourism, Health Care Services, IT and Telecommunications, Education, Environment and Banking and Financial services. The Investment Facilitation Summit will take place in the capital city of Brazzaville on March15-16 at the Radisson Blu Hotel and will: help Foreign investors: * To discover areas of untapped potential for investment Opportunities in Congo * To identify opportunities for Potential Joint Ventures with Congolese Businesses * To develop partnership collaboration with government department on Major Develop-ment Projects * To promote Venture Capitalists Actively and Investments opportunities that may be of benefit to Congolese government and businesses * To discuss Opportunities for participating in the Economic Development Policy programme with key decision Makers in Congo help the Congolese government and busi-nesses: To expose the untapped and exciting business opportunities that may emerge in Congo * To provide an unprecedented platform for the Government of Congo to sell projects to International Investors and Financiers * To enable local industries and markets get greater exposure to the International Media
JILL INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANCY Ltd Jill international Development Consultancy is committed to supporting governments, private sector and NGOs in formulating investment strategies enabling them fulfil their needs and goals hence achieving sustainable change. We work in developing Countries to promote innovation, investment Finance; good governance and poverty alleviation with the aim to achieve sustainable change. We build capacity in the areas of Agriculture; Health; Environment; Renewable energy and infrastructural development. We work in partnership with governments, private and non-profit sectors from planning, strate-gic thinking and service delivery. We seek out innovative sustainable solutions for the world’s toughest challenges; popula-tion growth; urbanization; food security; immigration; climate change and conflict. EXPERTISE: Research - Mentoring and Coaching - Finance and Innovation - Capacity building - Monitoring and Evaluation
In partnership with the Chamber of Commerce of Brazzaville
The agenda
of the summit
features a unique
blend of expert
discussions, case
stories,
breakthrough
methodologies,
practical tools,
hands- on
application and
inspirational
vision.
The summit is not a
passive event; your
participation
matters.
Most discussion will
be “in the round”
without a formal
stage.
Reasons To Invest In Congo There are many reasons to invest in the Republic of Congo:
1.Regional Hub With its deep sea port in Pointe-Noire, the Congo geographical location offers an entry point and hub for many countries in the region, including DRC, and offers access to 120 million of people from the common monetary CEMAC zone and 450 million from the common customs area of CEEAC.
2. Economic Indicators In the past five years, the growth rates in Congo have been very good and have been comparable to some BRICS countries. The economic forecasts are fairly good and positive as the country aims to diversify away from its reliance on oil exports. Strong and long terms investments have been made in infrastructures.
3. Infrastructure and Special Economic Zones The Congo has some economic zones to develop which will offer some fiscal incentives and infrastructure, expected to focus on agro-industrial and food processing technology.
4. Economic Diversification A part of the Congolese programme of the ‘Chemin d’Avenir’, the Congo has a clear strategy to diversify the economy in order to boost GDP. The Congo is focusing on increasing activity on the following sector: Agriculture, agro-processing and fisheries Manufacturing Health Care Services Education IT and Telecommunications Tourism and Environment Mining, Energy and Oil Banking and Financial Services
5. Abundant resources Covered in tropical rain forest, with an 169-km coastline , along the Atlantic ocean and with several important ports; the Republic of the Congo covers an area of 342,000 km², of which 341,500 km² is land while 500 km² is water. The country claims 370 km of territorial sea. As such, the Congo enjoys a wealth of natural resources, many of them are still untapped. And, although oil seems to be the economic backbone of the Congo, its soils boast many other natural resources including gold, copper, phosphate and potash, etc. In the past decades, Hydrocarbons revenue has been supporting wide-spread growth however, the government has developed a diversification effort to promote alternative sectors along with measures for a better regula-tion and oversight aid to business environment to assist and help support SME in creating jobs and new industries and jobs for the local people. The following sectors are considered as priority sectors within the govern-ment development strategic plan.
Congo holds the fifth-largest proven reserves of natural gas in Sub-Saharan Africa at 3.2 trillion cubic feet (Tcf), according to OGJ (Oil and Gas Journal). The country’s gross natural gas production was 334 billion cubic feet (Bcf) in 2011, although only 15% (51 Bcf) was marketed. A majority of the natural gas, 68 % (228 Bcf), was reinvested to boost oil production. Although the country has sizable proven natural gas reserves, only small amounts are monetized due to the lack of gas infrastructure. Congo also may hold large oil sands deposits (unconventional petroleum deposits of bitumen also known as tar sands) and Eni, an Italian company, is currently leading exploration activities. Congo is the second country in Africa, after Madagascar that may start to produce oil sands for commercial use before the end of this decade. Minerals Large reserves of potash (potassium chloride) are found at Tchitondi (Holle), 30 miles (48 km) northeast of Pointe-Noire. Iron ore is found in the south and in the western Sangha basin. Minor deposits of gold and diamonds are located in the Kouilou valley, and there are copper and lead deposits west of Brazzaville. There are also deposits of zinc, tin, phosphates, uranium, bauxite, hydro power and titanium.
Legal Framework and Taxation Investors In key priority sectors such as agriculture, farming and fishing, health care and education, mining, etc. receive a range of incentives that secure their investments; legislation has been modernised in recent years and there is a civil law structure in place with hierarchy of legislation. Indeed, in accordance with its liberal economic principles, the Congo is open to foreign investors and their rights of free enterprise are guaranteed. The Congo’s investment Charter is intended to encourage and stimulate productive investments in Congo. The Charter not only serves as a reminder of the Congo’s compliance with international treaties relating to foreign investments, but also provides for additional genera rights for investors. Laws for private and commercial property do not provide for any restrictions on nationality for the possession and ownership of property in Congo. Any foreigner desiring to lease or acquire property for private or commercial needs may be able to do so freely in accordance with the law. Besides all types of legal businesses are free to operate legally, although occasionally, nationals or CEMAC citizens may be granted certain priorities and incentives when developing some specific activities. The Congo is a member of the World Trade Organisation.
REASONS TO INVEST IN CONGO
In partnership with the Chamber of Commerce of Brazzaville
Focus Presentation
AGRICULTURE, FARMING AND FISHING Overview of the agricultural sector of Congo. Agriculture, Farming and Fishing as the engines of economic growth in Congo Brazzaville. Agriculture as a strategic tool in the process of economic development of a country. Including agricultural development in the process of industrialisation and as a means to attain higher per capita real income. The government is taking a stand to boost domestic agricultural output. Indeed, with a tropical climate and arable land to spare, the Congo has significant potential to expand agricultural projects. Yet, the sector remains largely underdeveloped. Domestic commercial livestock are also minimal, with imports and subsistence farming supplying the large majority of meat and poultry consumed. Thus, there is a very strong potential for local production in broiler chicken for example in order for the country not to rely on imported eggs and frozen chicken coming largely from the EU, Brazil and China. The government strategy is to reduce the food bill by helping to develop domes-tic agricultural projects aimed at improving food security.
MINING/ENERGY/OIL Identifying new approaches to the significance of mining, oil and gas within Congo national economy rather than the traditional approach to understanding the economic importance of mining. Exploration and production generates business activity across a spectrum of indus-tries. Encouraging local industries to participate in the mining, oil and energy sectors as the network of suppliers and support larger industries to meet the needs of oil and gas companies. Mining as the engine of economic growth and as a mean of translating the rich mineral endowment of Congo into social and economic development. For many yeas, Oil has dominated the economy, exports and state revenues, natural gas have been underdeveloped and total reserves almost unknown. Hydroelectricity has been a key to energy and a growing energy source for the Congo. Hydrocarbons have been a key element in energy business of Congo, although the Congo’s regulatory framework may need to be revised as some existing contracts may have been the results of ad hoc negotiations rather than sector-wide regulatory regime. Few local actors participate in the sector, proba-bly due to the large need of resources required to embark in the industry. In the oil/gas/energy sector, existing and recent discoveries in both Shallow and Deepwater offshore fields give promise for medium to long-term increase in production. Many oil companies continue to show strong interest in exploring the Congo’s ultra-deep-water offshore blocks. However, further efforts from the government and private partners are needed to sustain the sector.
INFRASTRUCTURE CONSTRUCTION AND TRANSPORT Assessing the importance of Infrastructure for Economic Growth, Jobs creation and nationwide access to Markets and Services. The need for innovative solutions and effective partnerships across private, government and donor agencies, in order to build effective infrastructure that reduces poverty, raises living standards for all, and helps the Congo and the local people to make full use of its abundant potential. Assessing the importance of efficient transportation infrastructure for multiple economic benefits resulting in better accessibility to markets, employment and additional investments. The Congo has made it a top priority to emphasis on long-term building projects and maintenance, including demand for affordable housing. The construction sector is in high demand and is expected to grow as the state seek to channel inbound capital into the sector. However, international private organisations have a vital role to play to help develop the sector. The Delegation Générale des Grands Travaux (The Department of Major Works) is probably the single most crucial actor in the Congo’s construction and public works sector as it is involved in planning and managing major infrastructure projects.
However it is far from being the only agency in the sector for urban develop-ment. The Congo has also develop some New Special Economic Zones requir-ing construction projects on industrial land. Looking ahead, the Congo’s con-struction sector has plenty of work to develop. The sector is mainly focusing on infrastructure projects, and in order to achieve this great ambition, foreign part-nership will be key to build roads and other basic public infrastructures such as hospitals, schools, administration buildings, etc. The government has focused in recent years in upgrading infrastructures, primarily roads to facilitate interconnection between various regions of the country. A road linking Brazzaville, the capital city of Congo to Pointe-Noire, the economic city has been completed in recent years and has facilitated transport of goods and persons from any part of the Congo to the Maritime city. The port of Pointe-Noire, a deep-sea port has recently been redeveloped to accommo-date larger boats. And there is a plan to refurbish the CFCO railway linking Brazzaville to Pointe-Noire. A number of road works infrastructures have been developed throughout the country. However, there is still a need to invest in more road infrastructures and the government is looking for potential partners in this field.
TOURISM AND ENVIRONMENT The Congo boast a wealth of touristic potentialities. How Tourism can impact on development of the Congo’s economy. Using Tourism as a potential sector for income creation and generation of jobs. Attracting investment to develop infrastructure to supply for tourists’ needs. How to make the Congo as an attractive country for investors in tourism. Considering the impact of the environment and economic growth and "natural capital." identifying the general environment applicable to economic sectors such as agriculture, forestry, and manufacturing. Evaluating the role of natural resources and the environment in economic growth . Understanding the linkage between the environment and economic development in various sec-tors of development. Biodiversity and ecotourism form part of the primary attractions of the Republic of Congo. However, in spite of the wealth of natural attractions available in the country, the tourism industry in Congo remain untapped with regards to the contribution it makes to the local economy, and in absolute terms. Experts believe that this was due to the fact that for many years, the oil sector has been considered as the main focus of revenues. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, the direct contribution of Travel & Tourism to GDP was USD 0.1bn, 1.1% of total. The total contribution of Travel & Tourism to GDP was USD 0.6bn, 4.1% of GDP in 2016, and is forecast to rise by 6.1% in 2017, and to rise by 2.4% pa to USD0.7bn, and to 3.8% of GDP in 2027. In 2016 Travel & Tourism directly supported 9,000 jobs (1.0% of total employment). This is expected to rise by 0.8% in 2017 and rise by 1.1% pa to 10,000 jobs (0.8% of total employment) in 2027. In 2016, the total contribution of Travel & Tourism to employment, including jobs indirectly supported by visitor exports generated 0.8% of total exports in 2016. This is Travel & Tourism investment in 2016 was 3.0% of total investment USD 0.2bn). The government of Congo is now seeking to develop the industry and boost tourism number to at least 100,000 tourists by 2020. As such, the government, with local partners, is focusing on developing high-end ecotourism with the view to promoting a high quality image of the Congo, boosting the country’s capacity in developing the tourism sector, boosting the promotion of the coun-try as a tourism destination by improving access to the country many national parks. Some of the attractions in Congo include : the Conkouati-Douli National Park, Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park, the Ntokou-Pikounda National Park, Odzala National Park, Ougoue Lekiti National Park, Odzala National Park, The Loufou-lakari Falls and/ or the Lake Tele, believed to be a home to mokèlé-mbèmbé – purported giant reptile. The lake area is very rich with rare species of plants and animals including a population of more than 120,000 gorillas.
Areas of Untapped investments
In partnership with the Chamber of Commerce of Brazzaville
Focus Presentation
Areas of Untapped investments
In partnership with the Chamber of Commerce of Brazzaville
IT and TELECOMMUNICATIONS Telecommunications as an essential catalyst for growth. How telecommunica-tions can increase the efficiency of economic, commercial, and administrative activities and development. How can IT improve the effectiveness of social and emergency services to distribute the social, cultural and economic benefits of development more equitably throughout the Congo. In this Information and technology age, the Congo has embarked on introducing 3G connectivity to allow opportunities for growth and to increase the number of internet users in the country, by expanding the nation’s fibre optic network. The government is conscious that the growth of mobile telephony could help multi-ply economic opportunities for the local people. With only about four operators serving about 5 million people, the regulatory authorities are encouraged to put together some incentives that may encourage companies to mutualise telecommunication infrastructures, to ensure that telecoms companies benefit from strong growth as the needs for telecoms services deepens. The gradual launch of 3G coverage throughout the country will open up a num-ber of long-awaited opportunities both for local entrepreneurs and foreign inves-tors who may be willing to participate in the expansion of the telecommunica-tions sectors in the country. The telecom market is very dynamic and is ex-pected to continue to grow and serve as an economic multiplier of commercial opportunities in the years to come.
HEALTH CARE SERVICE Identifying the importance of improving health standards and assessing the additional health care resources and necessary actions at international level to promote health for economic development. Identifying international health aid and partners as an essential support for the transition of healthcare systems and the modernisation of hospitals that can be financially sustainable, to give patients consistently safe and high quality care. Although the Congo is amongst African countries with the highest per-Capita GDP, there is a large scope for improvement with regards to basic health ser-vices. Health care spending as a proportion of GDP has remained extremely low, at around 2% in 2015, according to the World Bank, compared to 5% in Cameroon and 6% in Equatorial Guinea or 4% in Gabon. According to the WHO, non communicable diseases linked to demographic changes, including hypertension, obesity and diabetes are a growing concern. The WHO also advises that the Congo has yet to complete its epidemiological transition, and the country still has to address communicable diseases such as malaria, which with a prevalence of more than 50% continue to be one of the leading cause of mortality. In recent years, the country health strategy was centred on investing in upgrad-ing health infrastructure, improving health service quality and expanding hospi-tal capacity. However, there is still an urgent need to develop health facilities such as medical centres, clinics, infirmaries and dispensaries nationwide. In addition, the Health service, although may have some qualified medical personnel, the government aims to develop human resources and implement a new hospital policy to reform hospital management and improve hospital gov-ernance. Thus, although some progress may have been made towards health services, challenges such as shortage of hospital facilities, trained medical personnel, medical equipment, etc., remain a big challenge. The country has much work to do to meet its goals in the health care sector and is keen to work with foreign international partners to achieve its health care programme.
EDUCATION / LIFELONG LEARNING Addressing the importance of education as one of the most powerful instru-ments for reducing poverty and inequality and it sets the foundation for sus-tained economic growth. Identifying ways to improve human capital by involving governments, private sector, families, knowledgeable individuals on education and training. Increasing the returns to tertiary education, lifelong learning and competencies for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, to increase their job prospects within the Congolese society. It is a well documented fact that in order for a country to develop, education is key. The Congo has had in previous years, one of the highest education rate in the whole of Africa. Thus, a large proportion of people in Congo are quite educated. However, in recent years, educational opportunities have been reduced due to a lack of infrastruc-ture. In recent years still, efforts to increase the number of schools and training institutions, train and recruit more teachers and/or produce reliable statistics on students performances have been inexistent. Although officially, school is compulsory until the age of 16, and public school is free, many parents choose to take their children to private educational institu-tions, yet, the country was able to nearly achieve its Millennium Development goal of universal education by 2015. According to UNESCO, in 2015, there was a net primary school enrolment rate of almost 96%, although the quality of the education system remains very poor, with some classrooms accommodating up to more than 100 pupils at a time. Great efforts are required to be made particularly with regards to reducing the number of pupils from 70-100 to a maximum of 30 per classroom. At secondary schools where pupils are aged around 11, the situation remains the same, with Brazzaville being the most affected where again, as many as 100 pupils per classroom can be seen. In higher education where pupils join university, there is no much change, espe-cially since as of this time, there is only one university in the whole of Congo. Therefore, all pupils who have passed their Baccalaureate examination and who want to embark in higher education are transferred into University Marien Ngouabi of Brazzaville. There are a few Vocational training institutions which are mainly held by private sector organisations, in various fields, such as ac-counting, administration and management, hospitality and human resources management, etc. The government plan is to develop and or increase the number of vocational training to help absorb some the many thousands young people in entering the job market with some skills in their hands. There is also a need to design and align courses that may match the growing need by industry sectors in order to offer more advanced skills to young people. Therefore, there is a need to devel-op more professional and technical schools. The Congo, with a population of around 60% of young people, efforts to identify future economic needs and to bring tertiary education in line with the demands of the job market are vital for the economy and growth of the country. To achieve these demands, the private sector and foreign cooperation are necessary as they will play a key role in improving the educational needs and thereby helping the Congo to provide the skilled workers required for the grow-ing economy.
Focus Presentation
Areas of Untapped investments (Contd)
In partnership with the Chamber of Commerce of Brazzaville
BANKING AND FINANCIAL SERVICES Understanding the relationship between financial system and economic devel-opment. Assessing the role of financial system in economic development in Congo including economic growth, investment and production and improving GDP to improve standard of living of people therefore achieving economic development.. Identifying and attracting appropriate foreign financial partners and encouraging them to get involved in developing the banking system. The banking penetration remains relatively low despite the per-capita income, although some schemes are available to deploy excess short-term liquidity. Personal insurance lines remains almost untapped and could be the way for-ward to boost revenue. A country of liquidity within the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (Communauté Economique des Etats de l’Afrique Centrale, CEMAC), the Congo competes head-on with the more populous Cameroon and the less populous Gabon in terms of banking centre in the region. However, banking penetration in Congo remains shy of its possible full poten-tial. Hence, the country’s drive to diversify the economy by 2025 in order to generate more opportunities for debt financing, challenging banks to channel abundant and growing short-term liquidity into project and trade finance.
The banking sector in Congo, which benefits from a monetary-policy peg to the eurozone as well as common banking supervision. The BEAC regulatory Unit, the Commission Bancaire de l’Afrique Centrale, (COBAC), is primarily responsible for overseeing Banking Licensing but also have shared authority for granting national banking licences with finances minis-tries in the region. According to the world bank, CEMAC has Africa’s lowest access to financial services, therefore, prompting the Congo’s drive for bancarisation will improve and increase financial penetration beyond traditional schemes. While the state has not set firm targets for banking penetration, there are in place policies that require all the state’s civil servants to be paid directly through a formal bank. Microfinances are also limited markets in Congo compared to neighbouring countries such as Cameroon and DR Congo. With a capital requirement of CFA 25m (€37,500), there have been very few MFI licences in Congo since COBAC started regulating the sector in 2005. The Congo is open to new entrants in the banking sector, who will be expected to expand both their physical reach and drive new account creation, in order to render more dynamic the banking sector in Congo.
PARTICIPATION FEES *The participation to the Investment
Facilitation Summit of Congo Brazzaville is
subject to a fee of $1,000.00 per delegate.
The fee is payable when registering your
interest, and your registration is NOT
confirmed until payment has been received.
All fees must be paid via Jill International,
through bank transfer on the account de-
tails provided below.
Your Registration Fee Includes: Transfer
from Airport to your hotel, refreshment
breaks, lunches, a networking reception, the
opportunity to meet with government offi-
cials, and post-conference access to minis-
ters when required.
All payment MUST be made through
Jill Development Consultancy Ltd using the
following banking details:
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Bank Name: BARCLAYS BANK
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Participation Fees: $1,000.00
Summit programme
Introduction. HE Jean Omer MPEHO, Vice Honorary Consul of the Republic of the Congo in the UK opens the summit and introduces Delegates and Officials.
Opening address: HE Denis SASSOU NGUESSO, The President of the Republic of the Congo (TBC) Representative of the President Office.
Welcoming address: Welcome address form Mr. Paul OBAMBI, President of the Chamber of Brazzaville.
DAY ONE:
08:00—09:00 Arrival and Registration (Tea, Coffee)
09:00—09:30 General Introduction by guests
09:30—10:00 Introduction of the Summit (by His
Excellency, Jean Omer Mpeho, Vice Honorary
Consul Congo UK)
10:00—10:30 Presidential Address (His Excellency,
The President of the Republic of Congo
Brazzaville or Representative)
10:30—10:40 Welcome address by Mr. Paul Obambi,
President of the Chamber of Commerce
10:40—10:45 Introduction of the Summit themes (by Hon.
Olivia Mirembe Musisi)
10:45—10:00 Welcome speech from His Excellency
Clement Mouamba, Prime Minister of Congo
KEY SPEAKERS
(15 minutes presentation – 10 minutes questions from
Audience)
10: 45—11:15 Dr. Heinz MESSINGER , Diplomat and
Business Consultant
11:15—11:45 Hon. Prof. Sebastian C. KOPULANDE
Member of Parliament Chembe, Zambia &
CEO Zambia International Trade and
Investment Centre
11:45—12:15 Mr. Zubian SHARIF KAWAJA, Infrastructure
Finance, No Interest Loans
12:15—12:30 A word from State Minister HE. Henri
DJOMBO, Minister of Agriculture and Farming
12:30 –13:30 LUNCH
13:30 - 14:30 Introducing the Liberland Team (Hon. Olivia
Mirembe Musisi)
His Excellency, Vit JEDLICKA, the Present of
the Free Republic of Liberland)
His Excellency, Lord Tariq Abhasi (State
Secretary for the Liberland state)
Hon. Thomas Walls (Hon. Minister of Foreign
Affairs, Liberland)
His Excellency, Luis De Melo, the President
of the Global Chamber of Commerce of
Portuguese speaking nations)
14:30—15:00 TEA BREAK
15:00—15:30 David Mutebi, International Trade, Finance
and Investment Consultant. Brighton
Consultancy Agencies Ltd
15:30—16:00 Mr. Tan Ahmet, Chairman, Tangudur
Group of Companies, Turkey
16:00—16:30 Dr. Judex OberholzerUrban- Econ – Fish
Farming Specialist
16:30—17:00 Investment for Education
19:00—21:00 Dinner (Networking)
DAY TWO:
08:30—09:00 Tea/Coffee
09:00—09:15 Introduction of day two (His Excellency,
Jean Omer Mpeho)
09:15—09:30 Case studies ( The Good Farm)
A word from Mr Stephen Lwanga
09:30—09:45 A word from HE. Pierre OBA
Minister of Mining and Geology
09:50—10:30 Mining/Oil and energy
10:30—10:45 Other Speaker (TBC)
10:50—11:10 Other Speaker (TBC)
11:15—11:30 A word from Minister of Energy
11:45—12:00 Other Speaker (TBC)
12:00—12:30 Other Speaker (TBC)
13:00—14:30 LUNCH
14:30—16:00 Forums/Consultation meeting between
Guests and the Hon. Ministers and their
teams. (Agriculture; Health; Infrastructure;
Construction; Finance; Tourism, etc.)
16:00—16:30 A word from the Minister of Investment and
Trade
16:30—17:00 Closing remarks by the President’s office
17:00—19:00 Break
19:00—10:00 Dinner /Entertainment/Networking
In partnership with the Chamber of Commerce of Brazzaville
Olivia Mirembe MUSISI. Diplomat, Advisor on Africa Affairs to Liberland. Founder and CEO of Jill International, Mrs. Olivia Mirembe Musisi is an experienced International development consultant, a social Entrepreneur with extensive track record of working with multi– stakeholders and cross-sector groups at inter-national, national, local and organisational levels. She focuses on advocating and lobbying for innovative investment solutions based approaches that bridges gaps in public sector, private
sector and not for profit sectors fostering partnerships between governments and investors especially in Africa in areas of Agriculture; Health; Technology; Environ-ment; Tourism; and Infrastructure development.
Sebastian Kopulande is the Member of Parliament for Chembe Constituency in Luapula Province, North of Zambia. He is also the Chief Executive Officer of the Zambian International Trade & Investment Centre (ZITIC) which works to promote and facilitate trade and investment in Zambia in key economic sectors. He holds a B.A degree (with Distinction) from the University of Zam-
bia (1983). He is a Rhodes Scholar and holds the degree of Master of Philosophy (M.Phil) in Management Studies from the University of Oxford, United Kingdom (1985). In 1993 he was elected as a PEW Economic Freedom Fellow at Georgetown University, USA where he studied Transitional Economics. Sebastian has worked as a Management Consultant for Deloitte and Touche and held senior management positions in various companies in Zambia. He served as Board Chairman on several Government-owned companies and as a keen protagonist of good Corporate Governance, he served on the inaugural Board of the Institute of Directors of Zambia when it was just founded. He has very rich experience in Gov-ernment, having served as Director of Industry in the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Comptroller/Permanent Secretary at State House under late Presi-dent Frederick Chiluba and later as Special Assistant to the President (Special Duties), the late Dr. Levy P. Mwanawasa, with the responsibility of advising the Zambian Head of State on a variety of national and international issues. He has a trail of major achievements in public office and is credited with numerous milestone innovations in policy development and infrastructure projects that he helped initi-ate. He has extensive experience in economic development matters, particularly in the field of industrial and trade policy, economic policy formulation, small enter-prise development, investment promotion and creation of business-friendly envi-ronment. Sebastian has been actively involved with promoting Zambian entrepre-neurship, private sector growth and attracting foreign investment as well as helping foreign companies to establish operations in Zambia. On 11th August 2016, he was elected as the first Member of Parliament for Chembe Constituency in Luapula Province, northern Zambia. Upon entering Parliament, he was appointed as Zam-bia’s Representative to the African, Caribbean and Pacific-European Union Joint Parliamentary Assembly (ACP-EU JPA) where he was also elected as Rapporteur on Aid and Development Effectiveness. HE Luis De Melo. Chairman of the Global Chamber of
Commerce for Portuguese Speaking Countries (Luxembourg), Vice-President of the Union of Exporters of the Community of Portu-guese Speaking Countries (Portugal), has broad experience and networking in African Portuguese Speaking Coun-tries (APSC): Angola, Cape Vert, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea-Equatorial, Mozambique, S. Tome-and-Prince. Former journalist, he’s now a communication expert, specialized in political
marketing. His skills also include project management and fund raising. In compa-ny management, he’s been CEO of two in the real estate sector and one in media and event production. Founder of two NGO for Development focused in APSC. Born in Mozambique, Portuguese nationality, now living and working in Luxembourg. Runner, cross-fitter, married, father of two. Multilingual, multitask and libertarian.
Featured Speakers
Vit Jedlicka has been actively involved with the Liberty movement since his university days. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Economics, Prague in 2009. At the same time, he became the founding member of the Czech Libertarian Free Citizens Party. He also started libertarian educational NGO Reformy.cz and Zlatainiciativa.cz whose video channels have in excess of 18 million views. He received his Master’s
degree in political science from CEVRO Institute in 2014. On 13th April 2015, he founded the Free Republic of Liberland and was elected as its first Presi-dent. Since the formation of Liberland, close to half a million individuals have applied or registered for citizenship. Vit considers himself a Frédéric Bastiat influenced libertarian.
Dr Tariq ABBASI MBE DL, SECRETARY OF STATE Tariq is an Investment Banker, and a real estate developer in the United Kingdom with 25 plus years experience in the related industries. He serves on the board of trustees of sev-eral national and International charities. A philanthropist, activist and advocate for peace and justice, and a passionate supporter of charities dealing with the educational needs of children from under privileged background. Tariq Lives in London. He was made the member of most excellent order of British Empire (MBE) form H.M The Queen in 2011 for his
services to the communities. He was given another community award at the House of Lords for his services to the communities. Tariq was given the Lifetime achievement award by the Royal Borough of Greenwich and most recently made a Freeman of the Borough, a highest civic honour. He has also been appointed Deputy Lord Lieutenant (DL) of Greater London which is a Royal appointment to support Her Majesty Queen’s Lord Lieutenant. Tariq serves as the Secretary of State for the Republic Liberland and looks after the United Kingdom Mission in London.
Thomas D. Walls is the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Free Republic of the Liberland. He is a long-time Libertarian activist in the U and has Iong had a strong interest in the languages. culture and history of Europe, particularly Eastern Europe. He has worked in the German Bundestag and al the US embassy in Germany under the late Ambassador Richard Holbrooke, who went on to bring the former Yugoslavian republics togeth-er for the Dayton Accords peace agreement. He has worked
for the US Libertarian Party in Washington D.C. and is one of the founders of the RLC. Tom is a travel Consultant and has worked for Travelocity. Orbitz and Expedia and is a professional translator for German, Dutch and Spanish. Among his passions are travel, music. film, and cycling.
Ahmet Tan, Chairman Tangudur Group. Turkey. (Infrastructure, oil and gas plus electricity generation). The Tangudur group, operating in several sectors of activity ranging from city planning to the construction of basic infrastructure, including asphalting of roads, construction of shopping malls or public supermarkets, construction of schools, city sanitation, agriculture projects, construction and / or rehabilitation of
health infrastructure, mineral exploration, etc., the list is not exhaustive. In other words, any large-scale projects geared towards development, and aimed at contributing to the improvement of people's living conditions. The Tangudur group has already intervened successfully in many African countries like Ugan-da, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Guinea or even Benin; who took ad-vantage of Tangudur Group's expertise and investment facilitation to develop numerous projects in their country.
In partnership with the Chamber of Commerce of Brazzaville
Doctor Heinz MESSINGER (Austrian soft loans for medical Health Care). Broad experienced in encouraging the transition of healthcare systems and leading the modernisation of hospitals for more than 25 years. Particularly broad experience in developing countries. Besides this he also advises companies on their business strategy and has worked with multiple international healthcare bodies.
H.E. David Mutebi, International Trade, Finance and Invest-
ment Consultant, Brighton Consultancy Agency Ltd
Youth Enterprenuership, Enterprise and attitude
Dr Judex Oberholzer has extensive experience in integrated development projects and development strategies. The combi-nation of town planning and economics provide Dr Oberholzer with insight in both spatial and non-spatial development di-mensions. He has successfully integrated economic develop-ment with other development dimensions in his research. Dr Oberholzer has a degree in Town Planning and received his
doctorate in Spatial Economics from the University of Milwaukee (Wisconsin). He has applied many of these concepts and techniques in the projects he participated in during his career of 34 years. Most profound in this respect is the industrial complex analysis. As spatial economist, Dr Oberholzer had been employed by the former Department of Planning and in 1984 became the Managing Director of Urban-Econ, which provides spatial economic con-sultancy services since being founded in 1984. The underlying philosophy that Dr Oberholzer applies is based on the integration of the various compo-nents of development economics, namely economic market focus, spatial aspects, sustainable planning and strategic development facilitation. Eco-nomic development opportunities are identified, spatial planning parameters drawn up and implementation guidelines specified in terms of facilitating actions.
Featured Speakers
. Biz Planners & Advisors Mr. Zubian Sharif Kawaja. CEO Biz Solutions. Zero Loan Program "Whether you think you can, or you think that you can't, you are usually right" Henry Ford. It's not always about the money… "Only after the last tree has been cut down,
only after the last river has been poisoned, only after the last fish has been caught, only then will you find that money cannot be eaten." "Entrepreneurs creating profit-generating businesses within a social-value struc-ture to end poverty and promote environmental sustainability to create... The World We Want!" At Biz Planners & Advisors, we are a team of committed, positive and dedicated people with a genuine desire to operate to the highest levels of business ethics and integrity. We shall only deal with our stakeholders on a win-win basis and will also recognise that outside stakeholders must also share in our success - particularly those people less fortunate than ourselves and the environment. Our success will not simply be measured in monetary profits but also on how many people's lives we can positively impact and by our efforts to minimise any harm we cause to Mother Nature. We are not afraid to admit that we work to live and not live to work. Consequently, we make no apologies for having fun, spending time with family and friends and being amazed at how wonderful life can be.
Dr. Peter HAAS , MD is emergency medicine
Mr. Simpson B. Birungi, MD Movit (Uganda Ltd) Beauty and comestic product
Geoffrey Tusiime. Africa Development Projects Consult & Procurement
Partners, Dubai/Nairobi,
Most activities will involve live interaction in a creative process. The agenda is geared towards intensive
relationship-building, practical implementation, real – time “ making ” of solutions, and design-based
modelling. You will meet the heads of department and their teams for a one to one business discussion.
You will share your experience, exchange ideas, contacts and create powerful networks that will enhance
opportunities for contract for your business.
In partnership with the Chamber of Commerce of Brazzaville
Participating Organisations/Sponsors
The Following organisations, state-run institutions, private or otherwise are those which have helped sponsor the events. Should any one participant wish to get in touch with the following bodies, please con-tact the organising team of the Summit, and they will be very happy to facilitate contact with them.
(Waiting for Logos)
*The Office of the President
*Chamber of Commerce and Industry of
Brazzaville
*The Office of the Prime Minister
*Ministry of Agriculture, Farming and Fishing
*Ministry of Health
*Ministry of Trade and Industry
*Ministry of Mining
*Ministry of Education
*Ministry of Tourism
*Ministry of Environment
*Mayor of Brazzaville
*Mayor of Pointe Noire
And more ...
In partnership with the Chamber of Commerce of Brazzaville
Be a part of the discussion on all the
major development issues on Congo
Brazzaville:
*Agriculture and Agro-Business
*Mining/Energy and Oil
*Infrastructure Development,
Construction and Transport
*Health Care Services
modernisation
*IT & Telecommunications
*Education and Lifelong Learning
*Tourism and Environmental
protection
*Banking and Financial Services
To register and for more
information Please contact:
Hon Olivia MUSISI
PDG Jill Development Consultancy
Services (English)
Tel : 0044 (0) 7950 462 397
Email : [email protected]
Jean Omer MPEHO
Vice Honorary Consul
Honorary Consulate of the Congo
in the UK
Tel: 0044 (0) 7495 439 339
Email: [email protected]
Investment Facilitation Summit
Republic of Congo Brazzaville
15-16 March 2018
Radisson Blu, Brazzaville, Congo
Honorary Consulate of the
Republic of the Congo
In the UK
The Honorary Consulate of the Republic of the
Congo Brazzaville in the United Kingdom
3rd Floor—Holborn Gate
26 Southampton Buildings
London WC2A 1PN
Tel: 00 44 (0) 203 077 9958
Fax: 00 44 (0) 207 404 6810
www.consulateofthecongobrazzaville.webs.com
