Gabon’s public utility reform: separating water and electricity services
Gabon has embarked on a significant overhaul of its public services, initiating a clear separation between water and electricity management. On June 25, 2026, the Council of Ministers officially endorsed two legislative proposals leading to the establishment of two distinct mixed-economy companies: ”Gabonaise des Eaux”, dedicated to potable water services, and ”Électricité du Gabon”, responsible for electricity supply.
By dissolving the integrated operational model previously held by the Société d’énergie et d’eau du Gabon (SEEG), the government is prioritizing specialization. Each newly formed operator will now possess a well-defined scope of activities and more precisely identified responsibilities. This strategic restructuring is anticipated to streamline investment processes and significantly elevate the standard of service delivery. Gabon’s approach is not unique; several other African nations have already adopted similar specialized frameworks. Sénégal, for instance, entrusts water management to Sen’Eau and electricity to Senelec. In Côte d’Ivoire, these vital functions are handled by SODECI and CIE respectively. Morocco’s ONEE also segregates these two activities into autonomous divisions to optimize financial management and investment allocation.
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Across the continent, where this specialization has been implemented, it has consistently brought about enhanced clarity in responsibilities, strengthened the governance of utility operators, and fostered a more conducive environment for sustained improvements in services provided to consumers. For Gabon’s SEEG, a similar positive trajectory is expected, with the aspiration that the management of these two future entities will mark a substantial improvement over past performance, contributing to better public services and governance Africa.
