The Gabonese government, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is set to host a series of works from September 28 to 30, 2026, at the Omar Bongo Ondimba Congress Palace in Libreville. The event aims to develop the country's future National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy. According to a communiqué released by the Gabon Press Agency, the works will focus on creating a concerted approach based on national realities, needs, and priorities.
The works will enable the establishment of a shared diagnosis of the national AI ecosystem, identification of key challenges and opportunities, and collection of contributions from public, private, academic, and civil society actors. Discussions will cover essential dimensions for developing a national AI ecosystem, including skills and training, data, digital infrastructure, governance, security, innovation, and rights protection.
The contributions gathered during these consultations will inform the next steps in formulating, examining, and finalizing the future strategy, in line with the calendar agreed upon with the Gabonese authorities. Soahangy Mamisoa Rangers, Deputy Resident Representative of the UNDP in Gabon, previously emphasized that a national AI strategy must be based on Gabon's needs and realities.
The UNDP is providing methodological and technical support for the development of Gabon's national AI strategy through its AILA approach, which promotes a structured and participatory analysis of national capacities, needs, and priorities in AI. This approach aims to ensure that the strategy is useful, inclusive, and responsible.
In addition to the main works, bilateral meetings will be held with various actors, including a specific meeting with startups and innovation actors scheduled for October 1, 2026, at the UNDP Gabon's Green House. The UNDP has been present in Gabon since 1974, supporting the country's development priorities, including reducing inequalities, promoting good governance, innovation, and sustainable development.
The development of a national AI strategy is a significant step for Gabon, as it seeks to harness the potential of AI to drive growth and development. The strategy is expected to provide a framework for the country's AI ecosystem, ensuring that it is aligned with national priorities and needs.
The UNDP's support for Gabon's AI strategy development reflects its commitment to helping countries leverage technology for sustainable development. With its extensive experience in supporting countries in their development journeys, the UNDP is well-positioned to provide guidance and technical assistance to Gabon as it develops its national AI strategy.
Key points
- The Gabonese government and UNDP are collaborating to develop a national AI strategy.
- The strategy aims to create a concerted approach based on national realities, needs, and priorities.
- The UNDP is providing methodological and technical support for the strategy's development through its AILA approach.
