SEOGS continues to grow: more space for Local Content and Youth Hub
The Suriname Energy, Oil & Gas Summit, SEOGS 2026, concluded today after four days in which hundreds of international experts, policymakers, and companies gathered at Roeli’s Event Venue in Paramaribo. The event focused on energy transition, innovation, and local content.
“Absolutely,” answers Marny Daal-Vogelland, President & CEO of Fossil Energy Consultancy, when asked if she is satisfied with this edition. Her company was responsible for organizing the event. According to Daal-Vogelland, SEOGS 2026 was larger than previous years.
“Next year we need to do some things differently. The Local Content and the Youth Hub need to expand. We did not expect there to be so much interest. That is why we are moving them to Hall 3, where more people can be accommodated. We will also continue working on the content of the programs and the quality of the speakers. Not necessarily with more booths, but primarily with more depth. That will be the common thread leading up to 2027.” Local content takes center stage in discussion
The topic of local content received a great deal of attention during this edition. The Local Content Forum was organized over two days, where various aspects of local content were discussed. The sessions were open to the public.
“Everyone talks about local content, but in Suriname, it is quite difficult to bring everything together,” says Daal-Vogelland. “We hope that this initiative has provided building blocks for policymakers.”
According to her, part of the challenge lies in the way initiatives are approached. “Sometimes everyone wants to do something quickly and thinks: if I organize a seminar, I will make money from it. But that is not how it works.”
Daal-Vogelland is positive about the investments in education, but emphasizes that knowledge alone is not sufficient.
“It is not just about learning. It is also about attitude and perseverance. People must have the mentality to work for what they want to achieve. That comes from within. That is why mentors are important.”
Knowledge flight and responsibility
According to her, one of the challenges within local content is the knowledge flight. Many young people go to study abroad after high school and do not return afterwards.
“We cannot all leave together. We are from here, and it is up to us how we develop this country. When Natio played, everyone was united.”
Daal-Vogelland emphasizes that development is broader than oil and gas.
“It is much more than that. Technical sectors are important, but ultimately it is the people who make the difference: in industry, but also in agriculture, among bakers, lawyers, and accountants.”
She refers to the past to make her point. “When I was in primary school, it was said that bauxite was the cork on which Suriname floated. We were proud of that. But that must never become so one-sided again. We must be thrifty, save — that is what the fund is intended for — and act transparently. We must keep our receipts.”
Cooperation as the key
According to Daal-Vogelland, more cooperation is necessary to properly address the oil and gas situation in Suriname. According to her, many parties are still working too much separately. “Large companies often collaborate better, even though they are competitors. It is like a salad: you see the ingredients, but together they form a whole. We too often think: I have to do it alone. But that doesn’t work.”
She emphasizes that collaboration is essential for sustainable progress.
You might be able to go faster alone, but together you go further. We need to develop a culture where connection is central.”