As Gabon’s oil production gradually declines, the nation is shifting its economic strategy toward a new frontier: its vast mineral wealth. Recognizing the urgent need to diversify and reduce reliance on hydrocarbons, authorities are accelerating plans to unlock the country’s mining potential with up to eight new mining projects set to launch by 2030.
According to the Minister of Mines, Sosthène Nguema Nguema, multiple initiatives are already underway or in advanced planning stages, targeting key minerals such as iron, gold, and potash. Highlight projects include the development of iron ore sites in Milingui, Baniaka, Mébaga, and M’Bilan, alongside gold exploration in Etéké and a dedicated potash venture.
This bold mining expansion is designed to significantly boost the sector’s contribution to the national economy, targeting an increase from the current 6% of GDP to nearly 20% in the coming years. Beyond economic growth, the strategy is expected to generate thousands of jobs and strengthen public revenue streams, strengthening Gabon’s financial resilience.
However, achieving these ambitious goals hinges on critical infrastructure upgrades. Economist Orphée Mouelé emphasizes that upgrading road and rail networks, deepening port capabilities, and expanding energy supply are fundamental prerequisites. These improvements are vital to lowering operational costs and streamlining the transport of extracted minerals to global markets.
Civil society groups are equally vocal about the importance of equitable benefit-sharing. Éthique et Bonne Gouvernance, a leading local NGO, argues that the true measure of this mining strategy’s success lies in its tangible impact on local communities and its ability to create lasting social benefits.
The government is also prioritizing local value addition by encouraging onshore processing of raw minerals. The goal is to build a robust domestic mining industry, elevate the value of exports, and steadily decrease Gabon’s vulnerability to volatile oil prices.
