The Gabonese government has initiated the GEF-8 project, aimed at enhancing the resilience of Grand Libreville through integrated governance and urban transformation. The project, launched by Environment and Climate Minister Stephen Olouna Mouba, targets the communes of Libreville, Owendo, Akanda, and Ntoum. It seeks to address environmental challenges in urban areas, promoting sustainable development and better territorial governance.
The GEF-8 project focuses on several key areas, including waste management, urban mobility, sanitation, and land use planning. It aims to strengthen the ecological potential of Grand Libreville, leveraging its national parks, mangroves, and biodiversity. Minister Olouna Mouba emphasized the importance of environmental considerations in urban settings, highlighting the need for sustainable development.
The project will provide the concerned local authorities with regulatory and strategic instruments in waste management, urban mobility, eco-construction, and energy efficiency. It also aims to contribute to the development of the Urban Planning Code, urban planning schemes, and land occupation plans. These tools will support better planning for Grand Libreville's development.
The GEF-8 project has a planned duration of six years and will be financed with approximately $8 million from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), supplemented by $61 million in co-financing. The Gabonese government has also announced the mobilization of over 4 billion CFA francs for the project. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) will provide technical assistance and quality control.
The project's implementation will be monitored through periodic follow-ups, mid-term and end-of-program evaluations, and audits. Minister Olouna Mouba called for the mobilization of all stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of meeting commitments and deadlines. The project's success will depend on effective collaboration and execution.
The GEF-8 project has been in the validation process since 2025 and marks a significant step towards making Grand Libreville a more sustainable and resilient urban space. The project's ambition is to contribute to better urban planning, addressing environmental challenges and promoting eco-friendly development.
The project's launch event was attended by various stakeholders, including UNDP Resident Representative Rokya Ye Dieng, who reaffirmed her institution's commitment to supporting Gabon's efforts through technical assistance and capacity building. The project's success will rely on continued collaboration between the government, local authorities, and development partners.
Key points
- The GEF-8 project aims to improve environmental governance and urban planning in Grand Libreville.
- The project focuses on waste management, sanitation, and mobility, and has a planned duration of six years.
- The project will be financed with approximately $69 million from various sources, including the Global Environment Facility and the Gabonese government.
