Gabon-France talks: key challenges during Oligui Nguema’s visit

During his official visit to France, Gabonese President Brice Oligui Nguema will focus on critical bilateral discussions with French authorities. Key topics include the implementation of agreements signed in Libreville in November 2025 between both nations.

Gabon is pushing for stricter local processing of manganese, its primary mineral export. Comilog, a subsidiary of the French group Eramet, operates these mines. Libreville has set a firm deadline: by January 2029, all extracted ore must undergo initial processing before export. While France supports the concept, negotiations are underway to adjust the timeline, deemed too ambitious given the required investments in industrial and energy infrastructure.

The spokesperson for President Oligui Nguema emphasized this week, stating, “This is the core purpose of the presidential visit.”

Military base negotiations and water supply concerns

Another pressing issue involves the future of the French military base in Libreville. Gabon has requested increased disengagement from French forces and seeks the property rights of the Camp de Gaulle, a former French military installation. The Gabonese government also proposes renaming the site. In the long term, military cooperation is expected to shift toward training initiatives only.

Additionally, tensions persist over a 2024 water supply agreement signed with Suez for Libreville’s drinking water. After a year, progress remains stalled. French authorities insist on honoring the commitments, valued at 120 billion FCFA.

Gabon’s debt crisis and international negotiations

Behind closed doors, Gabon’s debt crisis will also be a major topic. The country’s debt exceeds 70% of its GDP, raising concerns across the subregion. Libreville has initiated a comprehensive audit, with findings expected this month. Simultaneously, Gabon is seeking a new program with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), though delays persist in document submissions.

France, which currently chairs the Paris Club—an organization of creditor nations—has encouraged a negotiated financial solution for Gabon. The debt burden is straining regional exchange rates and raises fears of instability for the Franc CFA.