• Oligui Nguema pushes Gabon’s digital agenda at US-Africa summit in Luanda.
• Eyes Botswana’s model, plans data center with U.S. firm Cybastion.
Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema is intensifying diplomatic and economic engagements at the 17th U.S.-Africa Business Summit, which began Monday, June 23, in Luanda, Angola. His objective is to strengthen bilateral partnerships and inject new momentum into Gabon’s digital strategy.
The head of state notably met with his Botswanan counterpart, Duma Boko. Botswana is frequently cited as a model for its advancements in public administration digitalization and public finance management. Impressed by this approach, President Nguema is considering drawing inspiration from Botswana to reform Gabon’s administrative system. He also met with Thierry Wandji, CEO of U.S.-based cybersecurity firm Cybastion. Cybastion has proposed designing a national data center and training 1,000 young Gabonese in digital careers. This initiative directly aligns with Gabon's national ambition to establish itself as a technology hub in Central Africa.
These initiatives unfold amid a broader economic transformation. To reduce its reliance on extractive resources, Gabon is focusing on diversification, placing digital technology at the core of its strategy. The sector currently contributes approximately 5% to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). However, authorities aim to increase that share to 10-12% by the end of 2025 under the "Gabon Digital" program. This program, backed by 44 billion CFA francs (approximately $72.4 million) from the World Bank, includes infrastructure development, improved internet access, and the modernization of public services.
By leveraging both African and international partnerships, Gabon is working to accelerate its digital transition, strengthen its technological sovereignty, and create new employment opportunities for its youth. The real challenge now lies in the effective implementation of these commitments and their tangible impact on the daily lives of citizens.
This article was written in French by Samira Njoya,
Edited in English by Mouka Mezonlin
