Etienne ngoubou biography channel

Interview: Etienne Ngoubou

What are the biggest hurdles still remaining to the successful conclusion of the 10th bidding round?

ETIENNE NGOUBOU: The government is particularly concerned with good governance for the process of allocation for the deep and very deep offshore blocks in our sedimentary basin.

In order to successfully promote these blocks, our country needs to implement a new hydrocarbons code to effectively regulate oil operations as well as to encourage the entry of new multinationals and the creation of consortiums.

Gabon will have to use a mechanism for awarding available blocks on a competitive, transparent and ethical basis.

What sort of challenges are involved in implementing the new hydrocarbons code?

NGOUBOU:The hydrocarbons code project must create a framework for awarding, negotiating and renegotiating contracts that maximises state revenues and ensures favourable conditions for investors.

Owing to the maturity of active oilfields, drumming up inter