Gabon and african development bank deepen ties to boost key sectors

The President of Gabon, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, met with the President of the African Development Bank (BAD), Sidi Ould Tah, in Libreville to discuss strengthening economic cooperation between the two entities.

Key discussions focus on water, energy and agriculture

The meeting, held on a recent Friday, centered on advancing high-impact projects in sectors crucial to Gabon’s development agenda. The Gabonese head of state outlined national priorities, with water and electricity supply for Libreville and other regions taking the lead, followed by agricultural development to curb food imports and enhance self-sufficiency.

The African Development Bank delegation, led by its president and including resident representative Nouredine Kane Dia, engaged in detailed exchanges on existing and future financing mechanisms. The BAD’s portfolio in Gabon spans critical areas such as infrastructure, energy, and agriculture, making it a vital partner in the country’s growth strategy.

Water and energy: revitalizing Libreville’s infrastructure

In the water sector, the BAD has played a pivotal role in financing the Integrated Drinking Water Supply and Sanitation Program for Libreville (PIAEPAL), a project aimed at modernizing the capital’s aging water network. The initiative, backed by a 200 million Unit of Account loan (approximately 75 billion FCFA), has delivered tangible results, including:

• Rehabilitation of 310 kilometers of pipelines;
• Installation of 21,000 new water meters;
• Construction and renovation of water towers in key locations such as Ntoum, Bikélé-Nzong, Alénakiri, and Sotega.

Despite these efforts, President Oligui Nguema acknowledged in a recent address that the program’s outcomes fell short of expectations, signaling the need for accelerated action in this vital sector.

Electricity and agriculture: strategic pillars for Gabon’s future

The BAD has also committed to supporting large-scale energy projects, particularly those linked to the Société d’énergie et d’eau du Gabon. One flagship initiative involves boosting water supply from the Komo River to meet growing demand across the country.

Agriculture emerged as another cornerstone of the partnership, with a focus on reducing dependence on food imports. By investing in modern farming techniques and rural infrastructure, the two parties aim to enhance food security and create sustainable livelihoods for Gabonese communities.

Strengthening a mutually beneficial partnership

Both leaders underscored their shared commitment to deepening collaboration, emphasizing the need for well-structured engagements that align with Gabon’s development goals. The BAD, recognized as one of Gabon’s leading multilateral financiers, continues to prioritize socio-economic projects that deliver measurable benefits to the population.

The Gabonese government is now seeking to refine its engagement with the BAD, ensuring that future interventions are closely aligned with the President’s vision for national progress. This renewed focus reflects a broader strategy to foster inclusive growth and improve living standards across the country.