Congo Cancels Oil Auction Due to Irregularities

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has canceled its controversial auction for 27 oil blocks, initially launched in 2022, due to issues such as late submissions, irregular bids, and insufficient competition. Hydrocarbons minister Aimé Sakombi Molendo cited these procedural flaws and acknowledged that many blocks overlapped with protected areas, raising significant environmental concerns. Environmental groups have warned that drilling could threaten the Congo Basin rainforest and release vast amounts of carbon, jeopardizing global climate goals. Despite the cancellation, the DRC remains committed to tapping into its natural resources, viewing oil development as essential for economic growth. Future licensing rounds are planned, although no specific timeline has been set, as the government aims to balance resource exploitation with environmental responsibilities.