Gabon is making significant strides toward its economic transformation with the launch of the ambitious Kobe-Kobe deep-water port project. Positioned as a cornerstone of the nation’s strategy to become a leading mining and industrial hub in Central Africa by 2030, this initiative underscores the government’s commitment to tangible economic progress and infrastructure development.
a bold step toward economic sovereignty
Under the leadership of President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, the first stone of the Kobe-Kobe port was laid on June 8, 2026, marking the beginning of a project designed to redefine Gabon’s economic landscape. The port, more than just an infrastructure, represents a strategic gateway to industrialization, local value creation, and regional logistical dominance. It is a testament to Gabon’s vision of producing raw materials domestically while fostering international partnerships across multiple continents.
The Kobe-Kobe port complex will feature a mineral terminal, a multipurpose and mineral quay, a railway loop, residential zones, cargo storage facilities, and administrative offices. This integrated development aims to strengthen Gabon’s economic independence by reducing reliance on foreign imports and boosting local production capacities. “Every stakeholder must contribute to tangible results,” emphasized the Head of State, highlighting the collaborative nature of this national endeavor.
infrastructure that connects and creates opportunities
The project’s scope extends beyond port facilities. A 550-kilometer railway corridor will link production sites to the port, reducing transit time to approximately eight hours. This infrastructure is not just about logistics; it’s about unlocking economic potential. The port is expected to commence exports by April 2031, positioning Gabon as a key player in regional trade and logistics.
To ensure the project’s success, Africa Global Logistics (AGL) has committed to training young Gabonese professionals, integrating them into the workforce to drive this economic transformation forward. The initiative is expected to generate over 100,000 jobs, increase the country’s GDP by more than 50%, and contribute an annual economic value exceeding $10 billion.
a vision for the future of Gabon
The minister of Transport and Merchant Marine, Ulrich Manfoumbi Manfoumbi, framed the Kobe-Kobe project as more than an infrastructure project. “We are not just breaking ground; we are laying the foundation for a new development model centered on industrialization, local value creation, and territorial integration,” he stated. This project aligns with Gabon’s broader ambition to become an indispensable actor in Central Africa’s logistical and economic landscape.
