A seminar aimed at strengthening the capacities of local elected officials in Gabon's Ngounié province was held on November 5, 2026, at the Mouila City Hall. The training focused on mobilizing and managing local financial resources. The event was presided over by Ngounié Province Governor Francis Oyinamono and led by Alphonse Ndémet, Prefect of the Douya-Onoye department and administrator of local collectivities.
The seminar aimed to enhance participants' understanding of mechanisms for mobilizing local revenue and rules governing their management. The training covered topics such as the financial autonomy of territorial collectivities and good governance principles. According to the trainer, the initiative seeks to equip local elected officials with necessary tools to exercise their powers, particularly in collecting local taxes, fees, and territorial taxes.
Prefect Ndémet emphasized the need for strict adherence to the regulatory framework governing local tax collection to avoid collecting taxes or fees not provided for by law and prevent potential disputes. The seminar was attended by local elected officials from the Ngounié province. They acknowledged that the training would enable them to better meet the requirements of local management and contribute to the development of their municipalities.
The seminar takes place in the context of implementing the decentralization process, which provides for the effective transfer of powers to local collectivities. This process involves strengthening the institutional and financial capacities of territorial collectivities to assume their responsibilities in mobilizing and managing local resources.
According to the participants, the seminar's outcomes will allow them to contribute more effectively to the development of their municipalities for the benefit of local populations. The training is part of Gabon's efforts to enhance local governance. The decentralization process aligns with President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema's vision.
Local elected officials play a crucial role in managing local resources and delivering essential services to their communities. Enhancing their capacities is vital to ensuring effective local governance. The Ngounié province seminar is part of broader efforts to promote decentralization and local development in Gabon.
The Gabonese Press Agency reported that the seminar was well-received by participants, who expressed their appreciation for the initiative. The training is expected to have a positive impact on local governance in the Ngounié province and beyond.
Key points
- The seminar aimed to strengthen local elected officials' understanding of local finance mobilization and management mechanisms.
- The training covered topics such as financial autonomy and good governance principles.
- The decentralization process involves strengthening local collectivities' institutional and financial capacities.
