As Gabon prepares to celebrate its 66th Independence Day, President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema has unveiled a 51 billion FCFA allocation to settle outstanding debts owed to private enterprises. The initiative aims to bolster small and medium-sized businesses while revitalizing the private sector’s growth momentum.
The government is accelerating efforts to resolve its domestic debt crisis. Ahead of national celebrations, the president confirmed that 51 billion FCFA will be disbursed to clear arrears accumulated by businesses.
Of this amount, 30 billion FCFA will cover claims in the mining and timber sectors, while the remaining 21 billion FCFA targets other enterprises—with a special focus on small and medium-sized companies. This allocation reflects the administration’s determination to stabilize key economic pillars.
The decision follows high-level discussions between the head of state and representatives from the Gabonese Business Federation, alongside leaders of small and medium-sized enterprises. Held at the Palais de la Rénovation in Libreville, the meeting addressed challenges faced by the private sector, job preservation, and policy measures needed to sustain economic activity.
For the initial phase, the Treasury will mobilize 21 billion FCFA to honor 1,478 payment orders issued between 2022 and 2026. The beneficiaries operate in critical industries, including construction, maintenance, food supply, and fuel distribution.
Authorities emphasize that this relief will strengthen business cash flows, safeguard employment, and stimulate broader economic recovery. The announcement is part of a broader debt clearance program totaling nearly 4,652 billion FCFA.
By addressing these arrears, the government seeks to improve operational conditions for enterprises and restore confidence in Gabon’s business environment. The 51 billion FCFA release marks a pivotal step in this nationwide effort to support domestic private enterprises and sustain economic momentum.
