Signing of a strategic memorandum of understanding between Petroci Holding and Sonangol to strengthen logistics infrastructures (SIREXE)

During the first edition of the International Extractive and Energy Resources Exhibition (SIREXE), a historic event took place with the signing of a strategic memorandum of understanding between Petroci Holding, represented by its Managing Director, Mrs Fatou SANOGO, and Sonangol, represented by its Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mr Sebastião Gaspar Martins.

The agreement, the fruit of a shared vision between Côte d'Ivoire and Angola, covers the study, financing, construction and operation of an integrated logistics services base in Abidjan.

A strategic partnership for shared ambitions

This initiative is part of a framework of strengthened cooperation between two major African nations in the energy sector. It responds to the growing need for modern, efficient infrastructure, which is essential to support the growth of the extractive and energy industries on the continent.

Mrs Fatou SANOGO underlined the importance of this partnership: "This agreement with Sonangol represents a major step forward for the logistics sector in Côte d'Ivoire. Together, we will build a platform that will serve not only our country, but the entire West African region.

For his part, Sebastião Gaspar Martins said: *Sonangol's recognised expertise in the development of energy and logistics infrastructures, combined with Petroci Holding's ambitions, will enable us to meet today's logistical challenges while creating opportunities for sustainable growth for both our nations.

An integrated logistics base to transform Abidjan into a regional hub

The integrated base project aims to provide state-of-the-art logistics services to the oil and mining industries. Located in Abidjan, this strategic infrastructure will include :

- Facilities for storing and transporting energy resources that meet international safety and efficiency standards.
- An industrial equipment maintenance and repair centre to support the operations of companies in the sector.
- Spaces dedicated to training and capacity building, encouraging the development of local skills.

This base will help to position Abidjan as a major logistics hub in West Africa, attracting additional investment and facilitating regional trade.

Strengthening Côte d'Ivoire-Angola ties

The signing of this agreement also symbolises the strengthening of bilateral relations between Côte d'Ivoire and Angola. The two countries, rich in natural resources, share a common vision of inclusive and sustainable development, based on strategic partnerships and structuring investments.

This partnership is part of a wider dynamic of regional cooperation in Africa, where optimising logistics infrastructures is essential to maximising the added value of natural resources and strengthening economic integration.

An impetus for sustainable development

At the signing ceremony, the two parties reaffirmed their commitment to sustainability and inclusion. The project will incorporate measures to reduce its ecological footprint, in line with the environmental objectives set by both countries.

A significant socio-economic impact

This partnership between Petroci Holding and Sonangol promises to generate significant economic benefits. In particular, it should :

- Create local jobs, both during the construction phase and when the base is in operation.
- Stimulate the transfer of skills and technologies, strengthening local expertise in the logistics and energy sectors.
- Increase Côte d'Ivoire's regional competitiveness, while consolidating its position as a regional leader in extractive and energy infrastructures.

A turning point for Africa's extractive industries

With this agreement, Petroci Holding and Sonangol are demonstrating that African synergies can play a key role in developing the infrastructure needed to drive the continent's economic transformation.

Thanks to initiatives like this one, Côte d'Ivoire continues to position itself as a key player in energy and extractive resources in Africa, and SIREXE 2024 is proving to be a decisive platform for furthering these ambitions.