Gabon’s bold shift toward mining-led economic growth

The Gabonese government is making a decisive turn toward mineral resource exploitation to counterbalance its declining oil revenues. Recent months have seen a flurry of financial commitments totaling hundreds of millions of dollars, as authorities accelerate exploration and development projects across multiple provinces. By 2030, officials anticipate Gabon could emerge as a global leader in mineral production.

Mining expansion plans and key projects

Seven months into his tenure as Gabon’s Minister of Mines, Sosthène Nguema Nguema reports tangible progress in transforming the mining sector into the economy’s new engine. «We have identified and scheduled the opening of nearly eight new mines between 2026 and 2030,» he explains. «These include iron ore mines at Milingui and Baniaka, a potash mine, gold operations at Etéké, and additional iron projects at Mébaga and M’Bilan.»

The minister highlights the employment potential of these ventures, alongside ambitious growth targets. «We’re currently seeing 6% sector growth, but our projections indicate we can surpass 15-20% in the coming years,» he states.

Infrastructure and energy: the critical foundation

Orphée Mouelé, an economist trained at the Omar Bongo University, emphasizes that technical success hinges on two pillars: robust infrastructure and reliable energy supply. «Efficient transport networks—roads, railways, and ports—are essential for moving minerals to market,» he notes. «Equally crucial is strengthening our energy production capacity, as mining operations demand significant power resources.»

The government’s strategy includes parallel development of local processing facilities to maximize value creation and job opportunities within Gabon. This integrated approach aims to ensure that mineral wealth translates directly into tangible benefits for citizens.

Social impact and sustainable development priorities

Edmiaune Zouga, president of the Éthique et Bonne Gouvernance NGO, stresses the importance of inclusive growth. «Our primary concern is social impact,» she states. «The average Gabonese must feel these economic developments in their daily lives. We need to see real improvements in living standards and community development.»

The mining expansion represents Gabon’s strategic pivot from hydrocarbon dependence to sustainable resource-based economic diversification, positioning the country for long-term prosperity on the global stage.