Facing a steep decline in its oil revenues, Gabon is pivoting decisively toward mineral extraction as the cornerstone of its economic future. Over recent months, the government has unveiled ambitious investment plans totaling hundreds of millions of dollars, signaling a bold shift in national strategy. Exploration and feasibility studies are now underway across multiple provinces, with officials forecasting that by 2030, the country could emerge as a top-tier global producer of strategic minerals.

Mineral resources set to redefine Gabon’s economic landscape

Just seven months into his tenure as Gabon‘s Minister of Mines, Sosthène Nguema Nguema is spearheading an unprecedented transformation. He confirms that authorities have mapped out a clear timeline for opening eight major mines between 2026 and 2030, targeting key minerals including iron, gold, manganese and potash. «We have identified and scheduled the launch of nearly eight mines in this timeframe. These include the Milingui iron mine, the potash mine, the Etéké gold mine, the Baniaka iron mine, as well as Mébaga and M’Bilan iron mines», explains the minister.

The minister is bullish about the sector’s potential to generate thousands of new jobs while propelling Gabon’s mining output into double-digit growth territory. «We are currently at 6% growth, but our projections indicate we can reach 15-20% within the coming years», he notes.

Infrastructure and energy: the twin pillars of success

Orphée Mouelé, an economist trained at Omar Bongo University, emphasizes that the mining sector’s success hinges on two critical prerequisites. «The operation’s viability depends on robust transport infrastructure — roads, railways, ports and bridges — to efficiently move extracted minerals. Equally vital is a significant boost to the country’s energy production capacity, as energy is the backbone of all industrial activity», he asserts.

The Gabonese government is also prioritizing local mineral processing as part of its strategic vision. By refining raw materials domestically, the country aims to create additional value chains and generate more employment opportunities for its citizens.

Social impact at the heart of the mining agenda

Ethics and Good Governance NGO, a leading civil society organization, welcomes the economic promise of the mining boom but stresses that tangible social benefits must be central to the strategy. Dr. Edmiaune Zouga, the NGO’s president, underscores the urgency of ensuring that the sector’s growth directly improves the lives of ordinary Gabonese. «The most critical factor for us is the social impact. It is essential that the average citizen feels the positive effects in their daily life and household economy», she emphasizes.

As Gabon accelerates its mineral exploration and prepares for large-scale extraction, the country stands at a pivotal moment: transforming its resource wealth into sustainable prosperity for all Gabonese.