The Gabonese Republic charts a new economic course through mining expansion

With declining oil revenues weighing heavily on its economy, Gabon is pivoting decisively toward mineral extraction. Over recent months, the government has unveiled ambitious investment commitments exceeding several hundred million dollars to revitalize its mining sector. Exploration activities are currently underway across multiple provinces, positioning the country to potentially emerge as a major global mineral producer by 2030.

Strategic vision driving mineral sector transformation

Since assuming leadership of the Gabonese Ministry of Mines seven months ago, Minister Sosthène Nguema Nguema has championed this strategic transition. He outlines a comprehensive development plan for the sector: «We have identified and scheduled the opening of approximately eight new mines between 2026 and 2030. This includes the Milingui iron mine, the potash operation, the Etéké gold mine, the Baniaka iron deposit, the Mébaga iron mine, and the M’Bilan iron mine.»

The minister emphasizes the employment potential: «These new mining ventures will generate thousands of jobs,» while projecting sectoral growth to double-digit figures. «Current output stands at 6%, but our aim is to accelerate this growth to reach between 15% and 20% in the coming years,» he explains.

Infrastructure and sustainable development challenges

Economist Orphée Mouelé, an alum of Omar Bongo University, underscores the critical role of infrastructure in realizing these ambitions. «Technical success depends on essential factors: developing transport infrastructure—roads, railways, ports, and bridges—to efficiently transport minerals. Equally vital is strengthening energy production capacities, as energy remains fundamental to mining operations,» he notes.

The Éthique et bonne gouvernance NGO welcomes the economic opportunities presented by the mining sector’s expansion. However, its president, Dr. Edmiaune Zouga, stresses the importance of tangible social impact: «The priority for us is social impact—ensuring these developments positively affect ordinary citizens. Gabonese people must feel the economic benefits in their daily lives,» she asserts.

Parallel to its aggressive mineral exploitation strategy, the government is implementing policies to boost local processing of raw materials, aiming to create additional wealth and employment opportunities within the country.