Gabon economic forum 2026: private sector and state unite for growth

Building a shared future: Gabon’s economic revival through private investment

The Gabon Economic Forum (GEF) 2026, held at the Palais des congrès de la Cité de la Démocratie, brought together business leaders and government officials under the banner of ‘Strong enterprises for sustainable growth and shared prosperity.’

The second edition of this flagship event, organized by the Gabonese Business Federation (FEG), focused on strengthening the role of the private sector in the country’s economic transformation. Alain-Claude Kouakoua, President of the FEG, delivered a powerful call for a mutual trust partnership between the state and businesses, emphasizing that development and competitiveness depend on collaboration.

Hugues Alexandre Barro Chambrier, Vice President of Gabon, echoed this sentiment, stressing that ‘without trust, nothing moves forward. Investments won’t materialize.’ He assured participants that the government remains committed to creating an attractive business environment, ensuring public finances are managed responsibly to meet corporate obligations on time.

From diagnosis to action: the real challenge ahead

The previous GEF edition provided a clear assessment of Gabon’s economic challenges. This year, however, the emphasis shifted to concrete solutions and measurable outcomes. Kouakoua noted that ‘a diagnosis alone doesn’t improve lives. Reports don’t create jobs. Only results matter.’

Barro Chambrier reinforced this, stating that the private sector must act as the engine of economic transformation, wealth creation, and improved living conditions—with full government backing. He highlighted that ‘no country achieves sustainable growth without strong national enterprises. No state creates mass employment without private investment and a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem.’

Regional opportunities and continental ambitions

The forum also explored how Gabonese businesses can leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to expand beyond national borders. Kouakoua urged companies to shift from local production to competing in African markets, integrating regional value chains, and nurturing national champions capable of representing Gabon globally.

The GEF 2026 concluded with a renewed commitment to move past rhetoric and accelerate execution. Investors, Kouakoua insisted, respond to predictability, legal security, transparency, and institutional credibility—not promises. The FEG vowed to advocate for these principles, ensuring Gabon’s economy thrives on stability and trust.