Gabon's Minister of Mines, Sosthène Nguema Nguema, has announced a series of reforms aimed at transforming the country's mining sector into a major pillar of the economy. The sector currently contributes 6% to the country's revenue, but the minister believes it can increase to nearly 20% with the right regulations and investments. As part of these reforms, 73 mining permits have been revoked after an audit revealed widespread irregularities and non-compliance with existing laws.
The audit, which was conducted from June 29 to October 16, 2026, found that many permit holders were using their licenses for exploitation rather than exploration, which is a clear violation of the law. Some companies were also found to be corrupting authorities and blocking access to their sites. The minister has stated that the revoked permits were not only non-compliant but also had significant fiscal and social obligations outstanding. A period of reclamation has been opened, allowing affected operators to contest the decision and prove their compliance with the law.
The reforms also aim to increase transparency and accountability in the sector. A new mining code is expected to be introduced, which will increase the state's share of revenue from 10% to 20%. The code is expected to be presented to parliament soon. Additionally, the government has established a national gold reserve, which currently stands at 30 kg, up from zero two months ago. The reserve is part of efforts to improve the state's control over the tracing and commercialization of gold.
The minister has emphasized that the reforms are not aimed at discouraging serious investors but rather at distinguishing between those who respect the law and those who use it as a cover. The government has also made it clear that it will not tolerate small-scale artisanal mining, which is often linked to social and environmental problems. However, the government has stated that it will continue to support small-scale miners who operate within the law.
One of the key projects in Gabon's mining sector is the Belinga iron mine, which is expected to be operational by 2030. The project, which is being developed in partnership with Fortescue, involves the construction of a port, a railway line, and a hydroelectric dam. The mine is expected to produce 500-600 million tonnes of iron ore per year. Other projects include the Mebaga mine, which is expected to start production in 2027, and the potash mine, which is being developed by an American investor and is expected to start production in 2028-2029.
The minister has stated that the government is committed to ensuring that the mining sector benefits the local population. To achieve this, the government is working to improve the regulatory framework and ensure that mining companies comply with their social and environmental obligations. The government is also working to increase transparency and accountability in the sector, including the publication of information on mining activities and revenue.
The reforms in Gabon's mining sector are seen as a major step towards increasing revenue and transparency in the sector. With the new regulations and projects, the sector is expected to contribute significantly to the country's economy. The government has emphasized its commitment to working with investors and local communities to ensure that the sector benefits everyone involved.
Key points
- The Gabonese government has revoked 73 mining permits due to non-compliance with existing laws and regulations.
- A new mining code is expected to be introduced, increasing the state's share of revenue from 10% to 20%.
- The government aims to increase the mining sector's contribution to the country's revenue from 6% to nearly 20% by 2030.
