Through Yasika 2026, Eni nurtures talent and innovation in Congo

Brazzaville, 16 October 2026 - The Yasika programme - "Innovation takes root in Congo", led by Joule, Eni's school for entrepreneurship, in partnership with stakeholders from the Congolese entrepreneurial ecosystem, officially concluded its second edition this Friday, 16 October 2026, in Brazzaville.

Held under the patronage of H.E. Mrs. Irène Marie-Cécile MBOUKOU-KIMBATSA, Minister of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises and Handicrafts and Patron of 2026 Yasika programme, the closing ceremony was attended by Mr. Alberto Nocerino, Managing Director of Eni Congo.

The results achieved in 2026 demonstrate Yasika's contribution to strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Congo. The programme attracted more than 160 applications, around 20% more than in its first edition, and achieved a 100% retention rate among participants. Through an integrated pathway combining coaching, mentoring, workshops and bootcamps, Yasika delivered over 3,255 hours of training and support. The programme has also advanced its co-innovation ambition through the launch of two new Proofs of Concept with Agrideck and Avitech. Across its first two editions, Yasika has engaged 69 entrepreneurs and innovators, received more than 294 applications and activated a network of 71 local stakeholders and 10 mentors, reinforcing Eni's commitment to fostering sustainable innovation and local talent development.

"Through this initiative, Eni Congo and Joule reaffirm their commitment to developing local talent, promoting youth entrepreneurship and fostering the emergence of innovative solutions that contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive economy. The first edition had already supported several startups in developing pilot projects addressing concrete challenges in the country. This experience further strengthens our conviction that innovation and local talent are essential drivers for creating sustainable value in Congo," said Alberto Nocerino, Managing Director of Eni Congo.

Yasika is part of an enhanced collaboration between Eni Congo and the Ministry of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises and Handicrafts, formalised in October 2025 around agriculture and entrepreneurial innovation. The partnership notably aims to strengthen entrepreneurs' skills, facilitate access to financing opportunities and support the development of local value chains.