Gabon: President Oligui Nguema, architect of post-transition economic resilience
In an uncertain global landscape, Gabon is charting a course toward a more resilient economy less dependent on commodity cycles. The recent announcement by Economy Minister Thierry Minko regarding intensified technical discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) sends a strong signal of this new direction.
Far from being another austerity program, this sought-after partnership aims to serve as a lever for inclusive growth, aligning with the ambitions of the Transition led by President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema. It is, in essence, about building the country’s economic resilience.
The foundation for this ambition was laid during the decisive meeting on November 5, 2025, between the Gabonese Head of State and Abebe Aemro Selassie, Director of the IMF’s African Department.
This exchange aligned priorities around a common goal: sustainable growth that serves the population.
The forthcoming agreement is thus envisioned as a partnership centered on clear commitments: institutional strengthening, increased transparency in public resource management, and tangible improvements in living conditions.
This pursuit of a new consensus with the IMF illustrates the determination of the authorities to consolidate the country’s macroeconomic foundations.
The stated objective is to create a stable environment conducive to private investment and diversification beyond the oil sector.
By ensuring better financial governance and more effective allocation of public spending, Gabon aims to strengthen its credibility and fiscal space to finance key infrastructure projects.
Resilience under the Oligui Nguema era is therefore conceived on two fronts. First, it involves stabilizing and securing the macroeconomic framework to avoid past imbalances.
Second and this marks a shift in rhetoric this stability must directly serve an ambitious economic and social transformation agenda.
Development projects, particularly those stemming from the enhanced partnership with France, are to be built upon this more robust financial footing.
The challenge is significant: transforming wealth into lasting resources and opportunities for the youth.
By placing transparency, good governance, and improved living standards at the heart of its dialogue with international financial institutions, Gabon under the Transition is outlining a growth model where resilience is not an end in itself, but the means to ensure shared prosperity shielded from volatility.
The successful implementation of this program will be a crucial test for the country’s new economic direction.
Baba GADO
