The central theme, “Strong companies for sustainable growth and shared prosperity,” served as a clear roadmap for the economic ambitions of Gabon. This vision was echoed throughout the speeches of both business leaders and former government officials during the recent gathering.
The Palais des congrès at the Cité de la Démocratie recently hosted the second edition of the Gabon Economic Forum (GEF), an initiative led by the Fédération des entreprises du Gabon (FEG). The primary focus of the sessions was to define the private sector’s role within the nation’s evolving economic framework.
Alain-Claude Kouakoua, President of the FEG, delivered a strong plea for a partnership rooted in mutual confidence between the state and private operators. He argued that such a relationship is vital for Gabon’s development and global competitiveness. This sentiment was shared by the Vice-President of the Republic, Hugues Alexandre Barro Chambrier, who noted that without this essential trust, the necessary investments would simply not materialize.
While the inaugural forum focused on diagnosing the challenges facing the Gabonese economy, the GEF 2026 marks a shift toward concrete action. Alain-Claude Kouakoua emphasized that even the most accurate diagnosis is worthless if it does not lead to practical solutions. He reminded attendees that reports do not create jobs and observations do not improve the lives of citizens; only tangible results matter.
Vice-President Barro Chambrier clarified that every stakeholder has a specific role to play. He committed the state to maintaining an attractive business climate and ensuring that public finance reforms allow for the timely settlement of government obligations to private firms.
These discussions reinforce a fundamental truth: sustainable national development is impossible without robust domestic companies. No state can generate mass employment without private investment and a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. In this context, the private enterprise is not a secondary player but the primary engine of progress.
Speaking on economic transformation, the Vice-President highlighted that the private sector must lead the way in wealth creation and improving living standards, supported by government initiatives.
As the second Gabon Economic Forum concludes, the focus shifts from dialogue to implementation. While progress has been made in recent years, the current challenge lies in execution rather than making announcements.
Investors do not commit capital based on vague intentions or promises. They require visibility, institutional confidence, and the stability of legal frameworks. This is why the FEG continues to advocate for an economic environment defined by transparency, legal security, and the honoring of commitments.
Furthermore, the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (Zlecaf) represents a turning point. Gabonese businesses are now encouraged to look beyond the domestic market. The goal is to produce for the entire continent, integrate into regional value chains, and develop national champions capable of representing Gabon across Africa.