The inaugural Gabon Digital Week wrapped up on October 30, 2026, at the Palais des Congrès Omar Bongo Ondimba in Libreville. The five-day event brought together policymakers, experts, operators, businesses, and young people to discuss the theme "Sovereignty, Inclusion, Innovation" and harness digital technology as a development lever.
A significant highlight of the event was the launch of 5G services by Airtel Gabon and Moov Africa Gabon Télécom. The regulatory body, Arcep, emphasized that the deployment of 5G should be accompanied by progressive coverage, improved service quality, and adapted tariffs. This move is expected to enhance the country's digital infrastructure and provide better services to citizens.
The event also hosted the 6th ordinary session of the African Union's Specialized Technical Committee on Communication and ICT from October 28 to 30. The high-level meeting brought together around 15 African ministers responsible for the digital economy. Gabon's Minister Mark Alexandre Doumba stressed the need for collective action to address sector challenges and have a stronger voice in global digital governance.
The discussions led to the adoption of the Libreville Declaration, which aims to promote cooperation and coordination among African countries in the digital sector. The declaration emphasizes the importance of digital sovereignty, data protection, and cybersecurity. It also highlights the need for African countries to work together to address common challenges and seize opportunities in the digital economy.
The event featured a digital village where startups, businesses, and operators showcased their solutions. Students and pupils had the opportunity to learn about careers in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and software development. The final of the KIMBA Connect competition also took place, highlighting innovative initiatives and promoting entrepreneurship in the digital sector.
The conference also addressed issues related to radiofrequency spectrum and satellite technologies, particularly for observing natural resources. These discussions are crucial for the development of Gabon's digital infrastructure and its integration into the global digital economy. The event provided a platform for stakeholders to share knowledge, experiences, and best practices in the digital sector.
The Gabon Digital Week is a significant step towards achieving the country's digital transformation goals. The event demonstrated the government's commitment to harnessing digital technology to drive economic growth, improve living standards, and promote sustainable development. The success of the event has set the stage for future editions, which are expected to build on the momentum and further promote digital development in Gabon.
Key points
- The first Gabon Digital Week focused on digital sovereignty, inclusion, and innovation to drive economic growth and development.
- The event launched 5G services and emphasized progressive coverage, improved service quality, and adapted tariffs.
- The Libreville Declaration was adopted to promote cooperation and coordination among African countries in the digital sector.
