The 6th extraordinary general assembly of the Association of Gabonese Mayors (AMG) opened in Franceville, Haut-Ogooué province, on October 7, 2026. The event, held under the theme "Decentralization for Better Urban Management to Build Strong Communes of the Fifth Republic," brings together mayors and administrative authorities to address decentralization and local governance challenges. The assembly aims to modernize local collectives and enhance their capacities.
The assembly, held under the patronage of President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, was presided over by Vice-President Alexandre Barro Chambrier. Local officials reaffirmed their desire for effective decentralization, based on real transfers of competencies and resources, sustainable financial means, and modernized communal management tools. They emphasized the need for better resource utilization to meet population expectations through improved public services.
Fernand Paulin Joumas, mayor of Franceville and second vice-president of AMG, highlighted the importance of optimizing local resources to provide quality public services. He stressed that this can be achieved by enhancing local governance and decentralization. The mayor's sentiments align with the assembly's objectives, focusing on decentralization and local governance.
Eugène Mba, president of AMG and mayor of Libreville, outlined the organization's priorities, including effective transfers of competencies and resources, administrative procedure simplification, local capacity reinforcement, and permanent institutional dialogue between the state and local authorities. These priorities aim to strengthen local governance and enhance public services.
Adrien Nguema Mba, Minister of the Interior, presented ongoing reforms in the decentralization process, including the revision of the organic law on decentralization and the operationalization of the Equalization Fund. He encouraged communes to accelerate tax digitalization, combat fraud, and improve urban management. The minister's address provided insights into the government's efforts to enhance decentralization.
The assembly's discussions centered on the challenges and opportunities presented by decentralization in Gabon. Participants emphasized the need for effective decentralization to translate into tangible results in daily life, including improved urban cleanliness, public lighting, road infrastructure, civil status, and municipal services. The vice-president urged stakeholders to work towards achieving these goals.
The 6th extraordinary general assembly of the Association of Gabonese Mayors concluded with a commitment to pursue efforts towards effective decentralization and enhanced local governance. The event provided a platform for stakeholders to engage in discussions and share perspectives on strengthening local collectives and improving public services. Key outcomes of the assembly are expected to inform future policy decisions.
Key points
- The assembly focused on decentralization and local governance challenges in Gabon.
- Effective decentralization is expected to improve public services and local governance.
- The government is implementing reforms to support decentralization, including the revision of laws and operationalization of funds.
