Company Plantations et Huileries du Congo (PHC), the leading industrial palm oil producer in the Democratic Republic of Congo, celebrates its 113th anniversary on May 11, 2024. Driven by a strong commitment to sustainable development, shared prosperity and social responsibility, under sustained Congolese leadership by shareholder Kuramo Capital Management, led by Mrs. Monique Gieskes since February 2021, PHC is committed to promoting shared prosperity through agribusiness. This approach aims to promote inclusive economic growth and invest in local communities.
PHC has played a vital role in the Congolese economy through strategic investments in increasing productivity and building the capacity of its employees. PHC has seen impressive growth, increasing production by 20% annually over the past three years.
PHC's positive impact is not limited to its internal operations. Between 2021 and 2024, the company significantly increased its workforce, from 6 to nearly 500 employees, while improving salary conditions and providing personal protective equipment. Additionally, PHC is committed to providing quality medical care to its employees, their families and surrounding communities, with the establishment of several health facilities and schools. Aware of its role as a key player in the socio-economic development of the DRC, PHC initiated constructive talks with community representatives to resolve historical disputes and establish an open and transparent dialogue. This approach has led to strengthened relationships with local communities and better integration of community leaders into the life of the company.
As part of its commitment to sustainable development, PHC recently launched the “Partner Plantations” program, offering community members the opportunity to sell their produce at mutually agreed upon fair prices.
“At PHC, we firmly believe that economic growth must be synonymous with shared prosperity and environmental sustainability”, “We are proud of our commitment to our employees, our communities and our environment, and we will continue to innovate and invest for a better future for all.” declares Ms. Monique Gieskes, Managing Director of PHC.
In order to amplify its social actions towards communities, PHC established the PHC Foundation in 2023 which will invest in programs focused on economic development, environmental protection, health and education.