DR Congo’s hydrocarbons minister has announced a plan to expand fuel storage capacity in Grand Équateur.

According to the ministry, the project involves reopening storage sites in Businga, North Ubangi province, and Akula, South Ubangi province, both inactive for more than two decades. The plan was announced after talks with SEP Congo and Cobil, two companies involved in fuel storage.

“Decisions have been made. We are about to begin an analysis phase with SEP Congo teams. Everyone is now aligned on reopening these sites,” said Malick Ndiaye, director general of SEP Congo.

The initiative follows earlier failed attempts. According to Radio Okapi, a plan to rehabilitate the Businga site was discussed with SEP Congo in 2019 but never implemented. The site is now reported to be in severe disrepair after years of inactivity.

Boaz Kabeya