Gabon minister Paul Kessany reports 62.3% completion rate for culture and sports projects

Appearing on the flagship programme “Bilan des 100 jours” on national television, the Minister of Youth, Sports, Cultural Outreach and Arts, Paul Kessany, calmly submitted to the democratic accountability exercise. Appointed on 2 January 2026, he presented a dynamic sectoral dashboard showing that 62.3% of the 53 projects have been completed, while 24.5% have an execution rate above 50%.

At a time when the Fifth Republic prides itself on having sparked a new momentum, some actors can boast of having fully contributed. Among them is Paul Ulrich Kessany Zategwa. Indeed, the minister has strived to leave his mark. First on youth affairs, with the installation of a normalisation committee within the National Youth Council of Gabon (CNJG). This regulatory act was but one step in a string of achievements.

Paul Kessany steering towards anticipated renewal

This is the clear postulate given the early signs in the terms of reference. In sports, the government official launched a thorough audit that led to the regularisation of 13 Olympic federations. This initiative is the first step in a comprehensive clean-up of the associative fabric. Regarding infrastructure, the Minister of Youth, Sports, Cultural Outreach and Arts has set a two-year goal to bring the Panthères back to national pitches.

Moreover, the cultural aspect has seen notable legislative and technological advances. Whether it is the modernisation of the Gabonese Copyright Office (BUGADA), marked by the swearing-in of 21 agents, or the digitisation of 2,250 works, Paul Ulrich Kessany has taken steps to protect national heritage. The decree of 22 May 2026 that now regulates the exploitation of Iboga in the face of international commercial pressure crowns this journey. And what about the country’s diplomatic visibility during FEMUA 18 in Abidjan? A masterstroke that has proven his management skills to this day.