TERMS OF USE
1. Acceptance of Terms
By applying for or maintaining membership in the Congo2050 Business Council (“the Council”), administered by DRC Invest, you (“the Member”) acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms & Conditions (“Agreement”).
2. Modification of Agreement
The Council reserves the right to modify, amend, or update this Agreement at any time. Members will be notified via email or Council communication platforms. Continued participation following notification will constitute acceptance of the revised Agreement.
3. Eligibility
- Membership is open to corporations, SMEs, entrepreneurs, investors, and business associations committed to the Congo2050 Strategic Framework.
- Applicants must demonstrate good standing, ethical conduct, and compliance with applicable laws in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
- Membership applications are subject to review and approval by the Executive Secretariat.
4. Privacy & Information Disclosure
We respect the privacy of our members.
- Information We Collect: Contact information, organizational details, membership applications, event participation data, and communication preferences.
- How We Use It: To process membership, provide services, share Council updates, facilitate networking, and enhance Council programs.
- With Whom We Share It: Council staff, approved service providers, and strategic partners strictly for Council-related purposes.
- Third Parties: Data will not be sold or disclosed to unauthorized third parties without explicit consent, except when required by law.
- Changes to Privacy Policy: Members will be notified of significant changes to our Privacy Policy and may choose to withdraw membership if they disagree.
5. Conduct
Members must:
- Abide by the Council’s Code of Conduct emphasizing integrity, transparency, and ethical practices.
- Refrain from behavior that could harm the Council’s reputation.
- Ensure respectful collaboration with other members, staff, and partners.
6. No Spam Policy
- Members shall not use Council platforms or events to send unsolicited communications (“spam”).
- Promotional content must be pre-approved by the Council Secretariat.
7. Termination of Membership
Membership may be terminated if:
- Fees remain unpaid beyond the grace period.
- The member breaches these Terms or engages in misconduct.
- The Governing Board, after due process, deems termination necessary.
- A member provides written notice of voluntary withdrawal (30 days).
8. Proprietary Rights
- All Council materials, reports, data, and branding are the intellectual property of DRC Invest and the Congo2050 Business Council.
- Members may not reproduce or distribute proprietary materials without prior written consent.
9. Disclaimer of Warranties
Membership is provided on an “as is” basis. The Council makes no warranty regarding outcomes, business success, or opportunities derived from membership.
10. Limitation of Liability
The Council shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from membership participation, including but not limited to lost profits or reputational harm.
11. Indemnity
Members agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Council, DRC Invest, and its officers from any claims, damages, or liabilities arising from their actions or omissions.
12. General Information
- This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the Council and the Member.
- Any waiver of rights must be expressly granted in writing.
- The Agreement is governed by the laws of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
13. Violation of Terms & Liquidated Damages
- Breach of these Terms may result in disciplinary action, suspension, or termination.
- The Council reserves the right to pursue liquidated damages for reputational or material harm caused by violations.
14. Brand Agreement
- Members may use the “Congo2050 Business Council Member” designation in accordance with brand guidelines provided by the Council.
- Unauthorized or misleading use of the Council’s name, logo, or branding will result in termination of rights and possible legal action.
15. Data Collection & Usage
- Information Collected: Names, positions, emails, company details, payment information, event participation, surveys.
- Usage: For member management, event invitations, Council communications, and strategic planning.
- Third Parties: Shared only with approved service providers (e.g., payment processors, event organizers).
- Data Retention: Information will be retained as long as membership remains active and in compliance with applicable laws.
16. Changes to Privacy Policy
We may update our Privacy Policy to reflect changes in practice or law. Members will be notified and given the option to discontinue membership if they disagree with the updated policy.