Gabon’s mining sector drives post-oil economic shift

As Gabon’s oil output steadily declines, the nation is pivoting toward a new economic model centered on its untapped mineral wealth. The government has set an ambitious target to launch eight new mining operations by 2030, strategically positioning the mining sector as a cornerstone of future growth and a buffer against oil dependency.

Major mineral projects reshaping Gabon’s economy

Gabon’s Minister of Mines, Sosthène Nguema Nguema, confirmed that several high-potential mining projects are in advanced stages of evaluation. Priority sectors include iron ore, gold, and potash, with key deposits identified at Milingui, Baniaka, Mébaga, and M’Bilan for iron, Etéké for gold, and a dedicated potash development initiative.

A bold vision for industrial transformation

The government aims to elevate the mining sector’s contribution to the national GDP from the current 6% to nearly 20% within the next decade. This strategic shift is expected to generate thousands of jobs, bolster public revenue, and reduce economic volatility tied to fluctuating oil markets. However, achieving these milestones hinges on critical infrastructure upgrades.

Infrastructure: the backbone of mining expansion

Economist Orphée Mouelé underscores the urgent need to modernize Gabon’s logistical framework. Enhanced road and rail networks, upgraded port facilities, and reliable energy supply are identified as pivotal to lowering operational costs and streamlining mineral exports. These interventions are seen as essential to unlocking the sector’s full potential.

Community impact and sustainable development

Civil society organizations, including Éthique et Bonne Gouvernance, emphasize that the success of this mining-led strategy must extend beyond economic metrics. They advocate for equitable benefit-sharing mechanisms to ensure that mining revenues translate into tangible improvements in local living standards and long-term social development.

Local processing: reducing export dependency

Gabon is prioritizing onshore processing of extracted minerals to cultivate a robust domestic mining industry. By increasing the value of its exports through local refining, the country seeks to mitigate its vulnerability to global commodity price swings and foster a more resilient economy.