In a deep commitment to education and in recognition of the exceptional transformation in corporate management style, the company "Plantation et Huileries du Congo", PHC in acronym, made its mark at the 2023 NHEF (Nigerian Higher Education Foundation) fundraising and awards gala held on Friday, September 22, 2023, at the prestigious Pierre Hotel in New York, under the leadership of its CEO, Madame Monique Gieskes. This event goes far beyond a simple evening celebrating excellence and philanthropy.
The NHEF Gala holds a special place in the hearts of those who champion the cause of higher education in Nigeria. It is an annual gathering of leaders, innovators and philanthropists from around the world, all united behind the NHEF Foundation and its mission to advance education again and again. At this year's event, Monique Gieskes, a key figure in the transformation of PHC, will find herself thrust into the limelight. She was nominated for and awarded the prestigious "Impact Leadership Award" for the positive impact of her leadership and management.
This award and recognition is in recognition of the positive impact she has had on the profound transformation of PHC, as well as on the communities surrounding the palm oil production sites.
Mrs Monique Gieskes expressed her gratitude in the following terms:
“I am deeply honored to participate in the 2023 NHEF Fundraiser and Awards Gala. Education is a powerful tool for empowerment and progress, and I believe in the transformative impact it can have on individuals and societies. I look forward to joining other leaders in supporting NHEF’s mission and exploring opportunities for collaboration in education.”
PHC is the largest industrial producer of palm oil in the Democratic Republic of Congo. With over 8.000 contract employees working on its industrial production line, PHC is considered the largest private-sector employer in the whole of the DRC, after the Congolese government.
PHC is much more than a leader in the agro-industry, it is a symbol of corporate responsibility and community involvement. Beyond its commitment to sustainable palm oil production, it is actively involved in improving healthcare, education and community development in the
regions in which it operates. To date, the company has already built 20 schools, 9 health centers and over 70 boreholes for the benefit of local communities. PHC also provides quality medical care to over 150 people through the company's private medical facilities, including 000 hospitals, 4 health centers and 3 dispensaries.
In terms of production, PHC has passed the 60.000 tonnes of palm oil mark in 2022, representing a 20% increase on 2021. The company's ambition is to reach 100 000 tonnes of palm oil by 2026. Under the visionary management of Monique Gieskes, PHC is enjoying remarkable success. Not just in financial growth, but also in ethical business practices, environmental management and community development.
Under the managerial and visionary leadership of Mrs. Monique Gieskes, the PHC company has enjoyed remarkable success. It is not only about financial growth, but also in its ethical business practices, environmental management and community development.
Monique Gieskes shared her vision for the future:
"We will invest in a refinery, add new concessions, and diversify the power plant with biogas and effluent. We're going to generate electricity to power the refinery and supply electricity to rural areas where we already operate. This will bring about a significant change in the economic development of these provinces, thanks to initiatives such as the provision of electricity, drinking water, schools, and the emphasis placed on education by the PHC Foundation."
The convergence of Monique Gieskes' recognition at the NHEF gala and PHC's commitment to community development promises a brighter future. A future where excellence is celebrated, education is valued, and positive transformation impacts not just businesses, but entire communities. Monique Gieskes, PHC and the NHEF Gala embody the spirit of progress and prosperity, and their combined efforts promise to shape a brighter future for Africa and beyond.
Ms. Monique Gieskes, Director General of PHC, receiving the prestigious “Impact Leadership Award”, during the 2023 NHEF gala.