Cameroon's SNH Intensifies Legal Battle Against Glencore Amid Corruption Scandal

This high-profile case, which has rocked the oil industry since 2022, underscores the governance challenges faced by African state-owned enterprises.

Adolphe Moudiki, the Managing Director of SNH, recently reiterated the company's commitment to pursue and bring to justice all individuals implicated in the affair. His statement comes as the hearings of Glencore executives and employees continue before the British judiciary, with sessions resuming on September 10, 2024.

The Glencore scandal traces back to May 2022 when SNH initiated action against the multinational following allegations of corruption. On November 3, 2022, the Southwark Crown Court in London found Glencore guilty of bribery between 2012 and 2015 in several African countries, including Cameroon.

SNH sought the identities of agents potentially involved in the illicit activities, but Glencore refused, citing an "anonymity clause" agreed upon with the UK’s Serious Fraud Office, the government agency leading the investigation.

In response to these developments, SNH suspended all dealings with Glencore across exploration, production, and commercial sectors. This move underscores the company’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its operations.

SNH is also awaiting a hearing at Cameroon’s Special Criminal Court following a complaint filed on November 6, 2023. The company hopes this legal process will uncover and penalize all those involved in these economic crimes, in accordance with the Cameroonian Penal Code.

This case highlights SNH's broader efforts to promote transparency and ethics within the hydrocarbons sector. It also illustrates the broader governance challenges that African state enterprises face in managing natural resources.

The outcome of this case could significantly impact governance practices in Cameroon’s energy sector and beyond. It also emphasizes the need for robust international judicial cooperation in the fight against corruption.

SNH reaffirms its commitment to upholding ethical standards, fairness, and economic patriotism. This stance reflects a desire to strengthen public trust and maintain confidence among international partners in the management of the country's natural resources.

The Glencore case continues to generate widespread interest, both nationally and internationally. It sheds light on the critical issues of corruption in Africa's oil industry and could shape future governance policies in the region.