Gabon has launched a significant overhaul of its public utility sector by decoupling water management from electricity services. During a Council of Ministers meeting on June 25, 2026, two legislative proposals were approved to establish Gabonaise des Eaux and Électricité du Gabon. These new mixed-economy enterprises will focus exclusively on potable water and power distribution, respectively.
This transition marks the end of the unified model previously held by the Société d’énergie et d’eau du Gabon (SEEG). By pivoting toward a specialized approach, the government aims to provide each operator with a precise mandate and transparent accountability. This structural shift is designed to streamline capital investments and elevate the standard of service provided to the population. Gabon joins a growing list of African nations adopting this strategy. For instance, Sénégal utilizes Sen’Eau and Senelec, while Côte d’Ivoire operates through SODECI and CIE. Similarly, Maroc manages these sectors via autonomous branches within ONEE to optimize financial oversight.
Experience across the continent suggests that such specialization clarifies operational roles and strengthens corporate governance. For the SEEG, this reorganization offers a pathway toward sustainable service improvements, fostering hope that the management of these two future entities will represent a significant departure from current challenges.