Gabon: Paul Kessany delivers 62.3% progress in culture and sports sectors

During a live appearance on Gabon Première as part of the customary 100-day review, Minister of Youth, Sports, Cultural Outreach, and Arts Paul Kessany presented a robust progress report. Appointed in early January 2026, he highlighted that out of 53 launched initiatives, 62.3% have been fully completed, while an additional 24.5% have surpassed the halfway mark in execution.

Transforming Gabon’s youth and sports landscape

Paul Ulrich Kessany Zategwa has made significant strides since taking office. One of his first actions was to establish a normalization committee within the National Youth Council of Gabon (CNJG), setting the stage for broader systemic improvements. His leadership in sports has been equally decisive, with a comprehensive audit leading to the formal recognition of 13 Olympic federations, a critical step toward revitalizing the country’s sporting infrastructure.

The minister also unveiled ambitious plans to revamp the national football team, Les Panthères, with a commitment to field a competitive squad at home within two years. This pledge underscores his vision for elevating Gabon’s athletic performance on the continental stage.

Cultural innovation and international recognition

In the cultural domain, Kessany’s reforms have been equally transformative. The Gabonese Copyright Office (BUGADA) underwent modernization, including the swearing-in of 21 new agents to strengthen intellectual property enforcement. Additionally, 2,250 works have been digitized as part of efforts to preserve and promote national heritage.

A landmark decree issued on May 22, 2026, now regulates the commercial use of Iboga, addressing international pressures while safeguarding the plant’s cultural and medicinal significance. His strategic presence at the FEMUA 18 in Abidjan further cemented Gabon’s diplomatic influence, demonstrating his ability to position the country as a key player in regional cultural exchanges.