Gabon begins comprehensive audit to clarify domestic debt

During the recent conclusion of the Gabon Economic Forum (GEF), Alain‑Claude Kouakoua, who presides over the Federation of Gabonese Enterprises (FEG), brought critical attention to the most sensitive economic issue facing the nation: the substantial debt the State owes to private enterprises. This outstanding domestic debt has long been a point of contention and uncertainty for Gabon’s economic landscape.

For many years, this specific state debt has been estimated at a staggering 4,340 billion FCFA. However, Kouakoua suggested that this figure is likely inflated. The FEG leader emphasized that not every claim submitted warrants validation, citing numerous cases where documentation was either insufficient, irregular, or otherwise questionable, making these dossiers contestable.

In response, a joint audit is set to commence, a collaborative effort involving a dedicated Task Force and the Ministry of Economy. This crucial process will meticulously distinguish between verified, undisputed debt, mutually acknowledged by both parties, and uncertain claims that will not be honored. A key outcome is already anticipated: the definitive debt amount will be considerably lower than the figure that has circulated for months. Furthermore, it was revealed that approximately 50% of this debt has already been settled since the CTRI assumed power in August 2023. Kouakoua noted that the private companies that received these payments did not publicize the settlements, contributing to the ongoing ambiguity surrounding the total outstanding amount. No further repayments will be initiated until the completion of this audit.

This forthcoming mechanism aligns directly with a key recommendation from GEF 2026: to prioritize the swift clearance of internal debt. This includes addressing VAT credits and arrears from public contracts through accelerated processes such as securitization and cross-offsetting. This initiative will be integrated into a national debt clearance program, complete with a publicly accessible tracking table and overseen by a National Monitoring Committee. This committee will effectively re-establish the functions of the former Libreville Club, enhancing governance Africa’s economic transparency.

While discussions at the GEF also touched upon improving public statistical reliability and enhancing the CNAMGS, the State’s obligations to private businesses remained the paramount concern. This issue is central to fostering a more robust society Africa.

For the Gabonese private sector, this announcement arrives at a pivotal moment. After years marked by vagueness, disputes, and prolonged waiting, the path is finally clear for a predictable, negotiated, and thoroughly verified resolution. Many within the business community view this as the fundamental prerequisite for gradually rebuilding mutual trust and fostering a more stable economic environment between the State and its enterprises, a critical step for independent African journalism to report on positively.