In recent years, Gabon has emerged as a leader in Central Africa's digital sector, showcasing impressive advancements. The country is now focused on leveraging this progress to establish itself as a frontrunner in digital transformation across the continent.
Gabon is set to take a crucial step in its digital transformation with the launch of the Gabon Digital project, scheduled for November 7. Announced during the steering committee’s first session on Tuesday, October 22 in Libreville, the initiative aims to leverage digital technologies to boost the country's economic competitiveness and enhance administrative transparency.
The project is backed by an initial loan of 44 billion CFA francs (approximately $72.4 million) from the World Bank and focuses on several key areas. These include improving social aid management through the implementation of a unified social registry, securing data with the construction of a state-of-the-art data center, establishing a cybersecurity incident response center, digitizing civil registration systems, and introducing a digital payment system.
This initiative is part of the National Transition Development Plan (PNDT) 2024-2026, in which digital transformation plays a central role. It is also linked to other programs like eGabon, which aims to strengthen the healthcare system to improve access to medical services and promote equitable healthcare for all Gabonese citizens.
For nearly five years, the digital sector's contribution to Gabon's economy has remained around 5% of GDP. However, authorities are targeting an increase to 10-12% by 2025. The Gabon Digital project is seen as a key driver to accelerate this growth by maximizing the impact of digital solutions on the national economy.
Beyond modernizing the administration and promoting transparency, the project is expected to stimulate the emergence of new business sectors and create jobs in the digital domain. Additionally, it aims to diversify Gabon’s economy, which remains heavily reliant on the oil sector, laying the foundation for more sustainable and resilient development.
Samira Njoya
