The Gabonese government is making a bold strategic pivot toward mining to counter the steep decline in its oil production. Over the past months, a series of high-profile announcements have signaled a major financial commitment—hundreds of millions of dollars—to revitalize the sector. Exploration work is actively underway in multiple provinces, with ambitious projections positioning Gabon as a top global mineral producer by 2030.
New mining projects set to transform Gabon’s economy
Seven months into his tenure as Gabon’s Minister of Mines, Sosthène Nguema Nguema reports a palpable shift—one that could make mining the new backbone of the economy, which has long relied on oil revenues. Speaking from Libreville, he outlined a detailed roadmap: ‘We have identified and scheduled the launch of several mines between 2026 and 2030. Within this timeframe, approximately eight new mines will become operational. These include Milingui for iron, a potash mine, Etéké for gold, Baniaka for iron, Mébaga for iron, and M’Bilan for iron.’
The minister emphasized the transformative potential of these projects, projecting not only significant job creation but also a dramatic boost in sector growth. ‘Currently, we stand at 6%, but we are aiming to exceed 15% to 20% in the coming months and years,’ he stated.
Infrastructure and energy: the keys to success
Orphée Mouelé, an economist trained at the Omar Bongo University, underscores the critical role of infrastructure development. ‘Technical success hinges on key factors: building roads, railways, ports, and bridges to transport minerals efficiently. Equally vital is strengthening energy production capacity—energy is the lifeblood of this industry,’ he explains.
The local NGO Éthique et bonne gouvernance welcomes the economic promise of the mining sector but urges tangible social impact. Dr. Edmiaune Zouga, the organization’s president, insists: ‘What matters most to us is social impact. This growth must reach the average citizen. Gabonese people need to feel this economic shift in their daily lives.’
In parallel with large-scale mineral extraction, the government is rolling out a new policy to boost local processing of raw materials—creating additional wealth and employment within the country.
