Côte d'Ivoire: Promoting local content to transform the country's oil and gas industries (Kamel Koné)

At SIREXE 2024, Kamel Koné, Chairman of the Groupement des Entreprises de Services Pétroliers et Gaziers de Côte d'Ivoire (GES PETROGAZ-CI) and co-founder of Hydrodrill S.A., shared his ambitious vision for strengthening Ivorian expertise and promoting local content in strategic hydrocarbon sectors.

A player committed to developing local content

GES PETROGAZ-CI, chaired by Mr Koné, brings together oil and gas service companies in Côte d'Ivoire. The group, which has around 20 members, plays a key role in the implementation of the local content law, which is designed to maximise the economic and social benefits of the oil and gas industry for local companies and Ivorian workers.

"Take the time to find out more about the Local Content Act. It is an essential law, designed to offer you opportunities in strategic sectors. It's made for you", urged Mr Koné, inviting Ivorians to find out more about the opportunities offered by this legislation, which is available online.

Hydrodrill S.A.: an Ivorian success story

As Co-Founder and Deputy Managing Director of Hydrodrill S.A., a 100% Ivorian company, Mr Koné embodies local expertise in oilfield services. Hydrodrill provides offshore and onshore technical services in Côte d'Ivoire and Equatorial Guinea, and is currently expanding into Congo and Gabon.

The company also has interests in two strategic blocks: CI-11, in production, and CI-705, in exploration.

"We are proud to show that Ivorian companies can not only compete with international players, but also play a leading role in the hydrocarbon sector," said Mr Koné.

Supporting local businesses through innovative initiatives

To meet the financial challenges faced by local companies, GES PETROGAZ-CI has signed an agreement with Sirius Capital, making available a fund of FCFA 50 billion to facilitate members' access to larger markets.

"Financing is one of the main limitations for local businesses. Thanks to this support, we can overcome these obstacles and strengthen our presence in strategic markets," explained Mr Koné.

"Thanks to SIREXE, we are showing that Ivorian expertise is no joke. We are capable of operating in Côte d'Ivoire and internationally with excellence and competitiveness," said Mr Koné.

Under the leadership of Mr Kamel Koné, GES PETROGAZ-CI and local companies such as Hydrodrill S.A. are demonstrating that the Ivorian oil and gas industry is ready to meet the challenges of local content.

Between strategic initiatives, technological innovation and regional collaboration, the future of the sector looks promising, with lasting benefits for the economy and people of Côte d'Ivoire.