Gabon’s bold shift toward mining-led economic transformation

Facing a steep decline in oil revenues, the Gabon is making a strategic pivot toward a mining-powered economic future. Over the past several months, the government has unveiled ambitious mining initiatives backed by investments totaling hundreds of millions of dollars. Exploration activities are now underway across multiple provinces, with projections indicating that by 2030, the country could emerge as a global leader in mineral production.

Less than a year into his tenure as Gabon’s Minister of Mines, Sosthène Nguema Nguema reports a groundswell of progress positioning mining as the nation’s next economic engine, replacing oil as the primary revenue driver. “We have identified and scheduled the launch of multiple mining projects between 2026 and 2030,” he explains. “Within this timeframe, approximately eight mines are expected to commence operations. These include the Milingui iron mine, the potash mine, the Etéké gold mine, the Baniaka iron mine, the Mébaga iron mine, and the M’Bilan iron mine.”

The launch of these new operations will generate thousands of jobs while propelling sector growth into double-digit territory. “We are currently at 6% sector growth,” the minister notes. “Our goal is to increase this rate in the coming months and years, aiming to surpass 15-20%.”

Economic dividends: what’s at stake

While the potential is immense, economists like Orphée Mouelé of Omar Bongo University emphasize the critical role of infrastructure development. “Technical success hinges on several pillars,” he asserts. “First, we must build robust transport infrastructure—roads, railways, bridges, and ports—to ensure seamless mineral transport. Second, we must strengthen energy production capacity, as energy is the backbone of this industry.”

The NGO Éthique et bonne gouvernance welcomes the mining sector’s economic promise but stresses the need for tangible social impact. “Our focus is on people,” says Dr. Edmiaune Zouga, the organization’s president. “The average Gabonese must feel the benefits of these projects in their daily lives. Economic growth must translate to real improvements on their plates.” In tandem with its aggressive mining expansion, the government is rolling out policies to boost local processing of raw materials, creating more jobs and wealth within Gabon’s borders.