Gabon | World Bank Group

A pioneer in ecological protection, Gabon actively works to preserve its tropical forest, making it a net carbon absorber. The country champions carbon neutrality initiatives. Its diverse ecosystem provides fertile soils, abundant coastal resources, and fisheries. However, despite its economic potential, Gabon struggles to translate resource wealth into sustainable and inclusive growth.

Political Situation

Since August 2023, Gabon has undergone profound political change. The military transition ended the long dominance of the Gabonese Democratic Party (PDG) and the Bongo family, initially welcomed by a population weary of decades of poor governance.

On November 16, 2024, a referendum approved a new constitution designed to strengthen democratic institutions, limit the concentration of power, and prevent political dynasties. It set the presidential term at seven years, renewable once, and excluded spouses and direct descendants of former presidents from eligibility.

The transition concluded with the presidential election of April 12, 2025, during which General Oligui Nguema was elected President, and marked the beginning of Gabon’s Fifth Republic.

Legislative, local, and senatorial elections are scheduled for September 27 and October 11–13, 2025, which will formally end the transitional parliament.