On May 11, 2025, Plantations et Huileries du Congo (PHC) celebrated its 114th anniversary, over a century of unwavering commitment, profound transformations, and meaningful contributions to the economic and social development of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Today, the company stands as a cornerstone of the national agro-industrial landscape.
Since its founding in 1911, PHC has continued to evolve despite the country’s many challenges, while remaining true to its core mission: to feed the Congolese population with high-quality palm oil and to create long-term value for local communities. Today, PHC is not only the largest palm oil producer in the DRC, but also its largest private employer, with over 10,000 direct jobs.
Rooted in the provinces of Tshopo, Équateur, and Mongala, PHC plays a vital role in the daily lives of thousands of Congolese. Deeply embedded in rural areas, its activities extend far beyond the plantations, driving local development and resilience. Since its earliest days, PHC has forged strong ties with surrounding communities, actively contributing to their progress and wellbeing.
A new momentum under 100% congolese leadership
This close connection took on a new dimension in 2020 when Kuramo Capital Management, a pan-African investment firm, became the company’s majority shareholder. Kuramo entrusted the leadership of PHC to an entirely Congolese management team. This transition marked the beginning of a major strategic transformation aimed at turning PHC into a model of shared prosperity, built on local expertise, sustainable agribusiness, agricultural innovation, and measurable social impact.
The results have been swift and tangible, seen both in the lives of employees and in those of neighboring communities: upgraded infrastructure, increased yields, improved working conditions, and above all, a strengthened commitment to community development.
A social impact that changes lives
In the healthcare sector, PHC operates an impressive network of four hospitals, four health centers, and eighteen dispensaries, with a combined capacity of 460 beds. Every year, these facilities provide over 160,000 medical consultations, 17,000 hospitalizations, 2,000 major surgeries, and 2,500 childbirths. Healthcare services are provided free of charge to all PHC employees and are heavily subsidized for local populations, who account for more than 70% of births in PHC-managed hospitals.
Education is another key pillar of PHC’s social action. The company has financed the construction or renovation of more than 30 public schools, enabling over 7,000 children to learn in safe and stimulating environments, a reflection of PHC’s strong belief that the nation’s future is shaped in classrooms.
At the same time, PHC has invested in access to clean water by installing 70 boreholes equipped with water points, a life-changing improvement in regions where potable water remains scarce.
Recognizing that a strong economy begins with a thriving agricultural sector, PHC currently supports 2,400 farming families, organized into 90 producer associations. These groups receive seeds and inputs, technical support, market access, and modern farming technologies.
Moreover, in 2023, PHC established a nonprofit foundation dedicated to expanding and sustaining its social initiatives. This new structure is designed to increase the reach of community programs and ensure their long-term viability.
As it reaches the milestone of 114 years, PHC is not resting on its legacy. With clarity and ambition, the company is focused on the future, determined to remain a driving force in the Congolese agro-industrial sector. Loyal to its core identity, PHC is committed to continuing the production of high-quality palm oil, while strengthening its contribution to the country’s economic, social, and environmental transformation.
