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Gabon’s government boosts oversight for accelerated AfDB projects

The Gabonese government is committed to enhancing supervision over projects financed by the African Development Bank (AfDB) to ensure their swift and effective implementation. This commitment was underscored during a working session held on Monday, June 29, 2026, chaired by Vice-President Hermann Immongault. The meeting brought together a high-level delegation from the AfDB, led by its country administrator, Mamour Ousmane Ba. Also in attendance were Louise Mvono, Minister of Planning, and Pacôme Kossy, Minister of Agriculture. This crucial discussion follows recent engagements in Brazzaville between the President of the Republic and the AfDB President, which took place on the sidelines of the institution’s annual assemblies. The primary goal remains to assess the current status of funded initiatives and to dismantle any impediments hindering their progress.

Vice-President Immongault reiterated the government’s resolve to enforce more stringent monitoring across all projects within the AfDB’s portfolio. For the executive branch, mobilized resources, particularly those acquired through borrowing, must translate into tangible benefits for the populace, aligning seamlessly with the objectives outlined in the National Growth and Development Plan. The Vice-President emphasized the critical importance of transparency, performance, and adherence to execution timelines, asserting that every stakeholder involved must fully embrace their responsibilities to elevate the efficiency of public investments.

A strategic action plan to expedite stalled initiatives 

Leveraging the presence of the AfDB delegation in Libreville, the government finalized a comprehensive action plan designed to accelerate projects that have experienced significant delays. Two specific endeavors are currently at the forefront of the authorities’ attention: the Libreville Integrated Drinking Water Supply and Sanitation Program (PIAEPAL) and the vital Ndendé-Doussala road. Regarding the latter infrastructure, Hermann Immongault conveyed the Head of State’s serious concerns about the sluggish pace of construction, urging immediate corrective measures. Furthermore, the government confirmed undertaking an internal assessment of its own operational shortcomings to bolster coordination with its financial partner.

On his part, Mamour Ousmane Ba commended the reforms initiated by Gabonese authorities and reaffirmed the African Development Bank’s unwavering commitment to supporting the nation’s strategic priorities. He notably outlined the principles of the New African Financial Architecture for Development (NAFAD), which aims to enhance the effectiveness of investments across the continent. With a robust portfolio of transformative projects in Gabon, spanning sectors such as water, vocational training, agriculture, and road infrastructure, the AfDB is poised to continue its dedicated support for the country’s ongoing development.