AGP Executive Report

Human Rights & Security: Congo’s Human Rights Observatory (OCDH) says “Zéro Kuluna” has led to 561 enforced disappearances, urging names, independent inquiries and prosecutions tied to arrests by the DGSP. Military Training: In Brazzaville, 35 FAC officers completed DEMIA 6, a six-month joint staff course aimed at strengthening headquarters-level planning and crisis management. Ebola Response Under Strain: Congo’s Ebola outbreak has surpassed 4,000 deaths (4,018) from 8,300 confirmed cases, as WHO and Africa CDC warn of rapid spread and community mistrust; reports also highlight a politician killed after defending government measures. UN Diplomacy: Congo pushed UN Security Council reform at the 81st UNGA, backing Africa’s demand for two permanent seats with veto power and reiterating its bid for a 2030–2031 non-permanent seat. Regional Energy Integration: CEMAC, APPO and CABEF signed the revised CAPS pipeline MoU in Brazzaville, targeting a $14bn integrated oil-and-gas network with feasibility studies and investment mobilization. Cross-border Mineral Arbitration: A dispute over the Mbalam-Nabeba iron ore project underscores legal risk for governments: Cameroon faces a reported $616m ICC award after alleged violations tied to emergency orders, while the broader Congo-linked licensing fight continues to shape investor-state expectations.

Security & Rights: Congo’s Human Rights Observatory (OCDH) says “Zéro Kuluna” arrests by the Directorate General of Presidential Security (DGSP) have led to 561 enforced disappearances, urging names, independent inquiries and prosecutions. Military Training: Thirty-five FAC officers graduated from the Marien-Ngouabi Military Academy after completing DEMIA 6, a six-month joint staff course aimed at strengthening headquarters-level planning and crisis management. Ebola Response: Congo’s Ebola outbreak has surpassed 4,000 deaths (4,018) amid 8,300 confirmed cases, with WHO warning of rapid spread into new health zones; attacks on responders and deep mistrust continue to complicate containment. Diplomacy & UN Agenda: Congo pushed UN Security Council reform at the 81st UN General Assembly, backing Africa’s demand for two permanent seats with veto power and reiterating its bid for a non-permanent seat for 2030–2031. Regional Energy: CEMAC, APPO and CABEF signed the revised CAPS memorandum in Brazzaville, targeting a $14bn integrated Central Africa oil-and-gas pipeline network with feasibility studies and investment mobilization ahead. International Military Posture: Congo is listed among operational groups participating in Russia’s Center-2026 drills, where Moscow rehearsed repelling external aggression and “capturing foreign territories.”

Security & Rights: Congo’s Human Rights Observatory (OCDH) says “Zéro Kuluna” linked to the Directorate General of Presidential Security has produced 561 enforced disappearances, calling for names, independent inquiries and prosecutions. Military Training: Thirty-five FAC officers completed the DEMIA 6 joint staff course at the Marien-Ngouabi Military Academy in Brazzaville, moving into the “restricted corps” of staff officers. Ebola Response Under Strain: Eastern Congo’s Ebola outbreak has surpassed 4,000 deaths (4,018) from about 8,300 confirmed cases, as mistrust and attacks on responders complicate containment. Regional Energy Deal: CEMAC, APPO and CABEF signed the revised CAPS pipeline memorandum, targeting a $14bn integrated Central Africa oil-and-gas network with feasibility studies and investment mobilization over three years. Diplomacy at the UN: Congo urged UN Security Council reform, backing Africa’s demand for two permanent seats with veto power, and reiterated its bid for a non-permanent seat for 2030–2031.

UN Security Council Reform Push: Congo’s foreign minister told the UN General Assembly that Africa should get two permanent Security Council seats with veto power, and reiterated Brazzaville’s bid for a non-permanent seat for 2030–2031. Ebola Crisis Deepens: Congo’s Ebola outbreak has surpassed 4,000 deaths (4,018) from 8,300 confirmed cases, with WHO warning of rapid spread into new health zones and insecurity complicating response. Human Rights Under “Zéro Kuluna”: A Congolese human rights group says 561 people have disappeared after arrests linked to the DGSP’s year-long “Zéro Kuluna” operation, calling for names, independent inquiries, and prosecutions. Military Training & Regional Presence: Russia’s Center-2026 drills practiced “security zone” scenarios; Congo is listed as present via an operational group, amid participation by multiple countries. Energy & Infrastructure Deal: CEMAC, APPO and CABEF signed the revised CAPS pipeline MoU, aiming for a $14bn integrated oil-and-gas network to boost regional energy security. Diplomatic Cooperation: Russia and the Republic of the Congo signed a 2026–2028 plan for trade and economic cooperation, covering energy, industry, transport, agriculture, and digital development.

Human Rights & Security: Brazzaville-based OCDH says “Zéro Kuluna” arrests linked to the DGSP have led to 561 enforced disappearances, urging names, independent inquiries and prosecutions. Public Health Crisis: Congo’s Ebola outbreak has surpassed 4,000 deaths (4,018) from about 8,300 confirmed cases, with WHO warning of rapid spread into new health zones and responders facing mistrust. Ebola Violence: A ruling-party official in Butembo, Marie-Célestin Karondwa, was beaten to death after defending the government’s Ebola response on radio, underscoring tensions that hamper containment. Regional Energy Diplomacy: CEMAC, APPO and CABEF signed the revised CAPS pipeline MoU in Brazzaville, targeting a $14bn integrated oil-and-gas network and feasibility studies over the next three years. Trade & Cooperation: Russia and the Republic of Congo signed a 2026–2028 plan for trade and economic cooperation, covering energy infrastructure, industry, transport, agriculture, science and digital development. Economy & Finance: BEAC reports CEMAC banks’ non-performing loan ratio fell to 15.4% by end-June 2026, improving portfolio quality across the region. Business & Investment: Sedima Congo plans a $35m integrated poultry and feed complex in Pool, aiming to scale production across the value chain.

Human Rights & Security: Congo’s Human Rights Observatory (OCDH) says “Zéro Kuluna” arrests by the Directorate General of Presidential Security (DGSP) have led to 561 enforced disappearances, demanding names, independent inquiries and prosecutions. Ebola Crisis: Eastern Congo’s Ebola outbreak has surpassed 4,000 deaths (4,018) amid 8,300 confirmed cases, while rebel-held areas linked to AFC/M23 report six new cases, underscoring how mistrust and insecurity keep response efforts fragile. Political Violence: A ruling party official in Butembo, beaten to death after defending the government’s Ebola response on radio, highlights the deadly backlash facing health workers and responders. Regional Cooperation: Russia and the Republic of Congo signed a 2026-2028 plan for trade and economic cooperation, covering energy infrastructure, industry, transport, agriculture and digital development. Economy & Finance: CEMAC banks’ non-performing loan ratio fell to 15.4% by end-June 2026, signaling improving credit quality across the region that includes Congo.

Ebola Crisis Deepens: Congo’s Ebola outbreak has surpassed 4,000 deaths, with 4,018 fatalities reported from about 8,300 confirmed cases, as WHO warns the virus is spreading into new health zones and straining resources. Public Trust Under Strain: The response is being hit by mistrust, highlighted by the killing of a ruling party official in Butembo after he defended government Ebola measures on radio—an attack that underscores how resistance and insecurity are complicating containment. Consular Politics in France: In Lyon, Congolese nationals held a “mbongui” with a government representative focused on practical issues like passports, consular services, and participation in elections. Regional Finance Watch: CEMAC banks reported an improved non-performing loan ratio, falling to 15.4% by end-June 2026, as policymakers push for stronger financing to the real economy. Energy Diplomacy: President Denis Sassou-Nguesso met Russia’s energy envoy after signing a 2026–2028 cooperation plan covering energy, industry, transport, agriculture, and healthcare.

Ebola Response Under Fire: A Congolese politician, Marie-Célestin Karondwa of the ruling Union for Democracy and Social Progress, was beaten to death in Butembo after defending the government’s Ebola response on radio, underscoring how deep mistrust and past grievances are obstructing the fast-growing outbreak (over 8,000 cases, nearly 4,000 deaths). Wildlife Enforcement: Nigeria’s Customs Service completed a full-cycle operation repatriating rescued baby gorilla “Bili” to the Republic of Congo, with DHL logistics and CITES support, returning her to the Tchimpounga reserve near Pointe-Noire. Diaspora & Consular Access: Congo’s diplomatic mission in Lyon held a citizens’ “mbongui” focused on practical issues like passports, consular documents, and participation in elections. Education & Health Investment: AGL Congo launched “École Prospère,” starting with a school infirmary at CEG Mbota Raffinerie, aiming to close gaps in pupils’ access to care. Tourism Push: Brazzaville marked World Tourism Day by pitching AI and digital tools to lift tourism’s GDP share from 3% toward nearly 10%. Regional Finance: BEAC kept key rates unchanged across CEMAC, signaling continuity for Congo-Brazzaville amid slower growth.

Ebola Crisis in North Kivu: A Congolese ruling-party official, Marie-Célestin Karondwa, was beaten to death after defending the government’s Ebola response on radio in Butembo, underscoring how mistrust and attacks on responders are worsening the outbreak that has now topped 8,000 cases and nearly 3,900 deaths. Education & Service Delivery: AGL Congo launched its École Prospère programme with a first school infirmary project at CEG Mbota Raffinerie, aiming to close gaps in pupils’ health access and prevention. Wildlife & Cross-Border Enforcement: Nigeria Customs repatriated a rescued baby gorilla, Bili, to the Republic of Congo after DNA confirmation, completing a full interception-to-return operation to Tchimpounga reserve. Regional Diplomacy & Culture: Congo participated in Lyon’s consular festival, with officials highlighting diaspora links and symbolic “visa” storytelling events. Economy & Finance: BEAC kept CEMAC policy rates unchanged in Yaoundé, signaling continuity for Congo-Brazzaville as growth slows. Tourism Strategy: Brazzaville marked World Tourism Day by pitching AI and digital platforms to lift tourism’s GDP share from 3% toward 10%. Mining Update: Zanaga reported major improvements in the economics of Congo’s iron ore project, including potential cash-cost savings and talks on up to $500m financing.

Ebola Crisis Escalates: Congo’s Ebola outbreak has crossed 8,000 confirmed cases with 3,901 deaths, as WHO warns the country is running short of health workers and struggles with timely detection and early care. Political Pressure in the Outbreak: A ruling party UDPS official was attacked after defending government Ebola measures on radio, underscoring how the crisis is spilling into politics and security. Regional Finance Watch: BEAC kept key rates unchanged for CEMAC, including Congo-Brazzaville, signaling continuity as growth slows and banks keep leaning on refinancing. Tourism Push in Brazzaville: Brazzaville marked World Tourism Day by pitching AI and digital platforms to lift tourism’s GDP share from 3% toward nearly 10%. Sports Governance: Fecofoot elected Éric Alain Mantot as president in Brazzaville with 87.5% of votes, amid reports of arrests and institutional strain around the vote. Mining Update: Zanaga Iron Ore says its Congo project’s economics improved, pointing to major potential cash-cost savings and talks on up to US$500m financing.

Ebola Crisis Deepens in Congo: Congo’s confirmed Ebola cases have surged past 8,000, reaching 8,067 with 3,901 deaths as of Sept. 26, while the WHO warns the country is running short of health workers to contain the outbreak. Political Violence and Accountability: A ruling party UDPS official, Marie-Célestin Karondwa, was attacked after defending government Ebola measures on radio and was reported in critical condition. Monetary Policy Watch (CEMAC): BEAC kept key rates unchanged on Sept. 28, holding the tender rate at 4.50%—a continuity signal for Congo-Brazzaville as regional growth slows. Tourism Push with AI: Brazzaville marked World Tourism Day by pitching digital platforms and artificial intelligence to lift tourism’s GDP share from 3% toward nearly 10%. Sports Governance: Fecofoot elected Éric Alain Mantot as president with 87.5% of votes in Brazzaville, amid reports of tension around the ballot. Mining Update: Zanaga said its Congo iron ore project’s economics improved, citing potential cash-cost savings and discussions on up to US$500 million financing.

Ebola Crisis Deepens: Congo’s Ebola outbreak has surged past 8,000 confirmed cases, with 3,901 deaths reported as of Sept. 26, while the WHO warns the country is running out of health workers and faces persistent delays in detection and early care. Security Backlash: A UDPS official, Marie-Célestin Karondwa, was beaten to death in Butembo after defending the government’s Ebola prevention measures on radio, underscoring mistrust toward response teams. Social Protection Watch: An actuarial review says Congo’s National Social Security Fund (CNSS) is healthy today, but outdated 1960-era contribution rules and a pension-heavy design could drive future deficits without reforms. Development & Diplomacy: The World Bank Group appointed Charlotte Ndaw Sako as its resident representative for Congo, while a Russia–Congo intergovernmental commission session opened in Brazzaville to push trade and investment cooperation. Infrastructure Deadline: Congo is targeting a late-2026 launch for its delayed national data centre, with a Chinese contractor reportedly assuring schedule completion. Sports Governance: Fecofoot elected Éric Alain Mantot as president in Brazzaville with a large majority, despite reports of tension around the vote.

Football Politics: Éric Alain Mantot won the Fecofoot presidency in Brazzaville on 26 September with 87.5% of the vote (35–5), but reporting highlights “visible strain” around the ballot, including arrests and the early exit of CAF and FIFA delegations. Social Protection Watch: A FINACTU actuarial review says Congo’s National Social Security Fund (CNSS) is healthy today, yet warns that 1960-era contribution rules and a pension-heavy design could drive future deficits without reforms. World Bank Appointment: The World Bank Group named Charlotte Ndaw Sako as its resident representative for the Republic of Congo, signaling a push to translate a large public-private investment pipeline into results. Russia-Congo Talks: An intergovernmental commission session opened in Brazzaville, with both sides stressing trade diversification and expanding cooperation in energy, hydrocarbons, security and defense. Ebola Response Tensions: A senior UDPS figure in Butembo, North Kivu, was beaten to death after promoting Ebola prevention on radio, underscoring mistrust and attacks on response efforts. National Infrastructure: Congo is targeting a late-2026 launch for a delayed national data centre, with officials citing a Chinese contractor’s schedule assurances.

National Infrastructure: The Republic of Congo is targeting a late-2026 launch for its delayed national data centre, with officials saying the Chinese contractor Sumec Group has assured completion despite setbacks since 2024. Public Health & Security: Congo’s escalating Ebola situation is again in focus at the UN, where leaders are urged to keep pandemic preparedness on the agenda as the outbreak spreads and health systems strain. Security Forces: Brigadier General Gildas Olangué was formally installed to lead the national gendarmerie in Brazzaville, following President Denis Sassou N’Guesso’s insignia conferment and an interior ministry handover. Local Development & Regional Skills: Congo’s technical education ministry is discussing opening the Souanké mining school to Cameroonian students, aiming to turn the Sangha centre into a cross-border training hub. Urban Planning & Partnerships: Kintélé’s mayor took a bid to the Senate to help secure backers for SIIV.IA, an African cities innovation summit planned for March 2027.

Security Leadership: Brigadier General Gildas Olangué was installed as head of Congo’s national gendarmerie in Brazzaville on 25 September, following President Denis Sassou N’Guesso’s insignia conferment and an interior ministry handover—an orderly, public display of the command chain. Public Health Crisis: UN officials and the refugee chief Barham Salih warned that Congo’s escalating Ebola outbreak is worsening displacement and straining health systems, with WHO reporting a shortage of health workers and treatment capacity. Local Governance & Development: Kintélé’s mayor pushed Congo’s Senate to help secure partners and backers for SIIV.IA, an African cities innovation summit planned for March 2027, pitching the event’s focus on health, sanitation, education and mobility. Regional Skills & Industry: Congo’s technical education ministry discussed opening the Souanké mining school to Cameroonian students, aiming to turn the Sangha border area into a cross-border training hub for iron-sector labour. Economy & Resources: Gerald Group took full control of Soremi in M’Fouati (Bouenza), signaling a renewed push on copper and zinc operations. Climate Finance: Britain announced £331M for climate resilience and clean water, explicitly including support for ecosystems in the Amazon and Congo Basin.

Ebola Response in Congo: The WHO warns Congo is running short of health workers as Ebola spreads across seven provinces, with treatment centres overwhelmed and insecurity, displacement and a strike hampering care. Security Leadership: In Brazzaville, Brigadier General Gildas Olangué was installed to lead the national gendarmerie, following President Denis Sassou N’Guesso’s insignia conferment and a formal handover presided over by the interior minister. Mining and Investment: Gerald Group took full control of Soremi in M’Fouati (Bouenza), signaling a renewed push on copper and zinc operations after the deal was surfaced during a presidential audience. Cross-Border Skills: Congo’s technical education ministry and Cameroon’s embassy discussed opening the Souanké mining school to Cameroonian students, aiming to turn the Sangha centre into a regional training hub. Regional Diplomacy & UN Agenda: Congo’s Senate was approached by Kintélé’s mayor to help secure partners for SIIV.IA, an African cities innovation summit planned for March 2027.