The Ministry of Digital Economy, Digitalization, and Innovation in Gabon has initiated phase II of its mission to collect data for the qualitative evaluation and physical inventory of computer parks in local communities. This phase began in Mouila, the capital of Ngounié province in southern Gabon, on September 30, 2026. The mission follows a first phase conducted from April 22 to May 6, 2026, which assessed user satisfaction with digital services in nine provincial capitals.
The current mission is led by Hervé Stéphane Ogombe, deputy director of Promotion, Production, and Digital Content Supply, along with Técylia Moussavou Mbadinga épouse Ndong, head of the Statistics and Economic Analysis service, and Alexandra Karen Mbenga Bounzanga from the Internet Governance Directorate. Their task is to establish a comprehensive overview of computer equipment and software acquired through state budgets or local community funds. The team uses survey forms to collect data from various local government offices, including the governor's office, prefecture, and municipal offices.
The mission aims to distinguish between equipment provided by the state or purchased by local communities and that acquired personally by agents for their official duties. According to the mission leader, "We are counting what comes from the state or the community's own budget. The computer equipment that an agent buys himself to carry out his duties is not counted." This detailed assessment will help identify gaps and needs in digital infrastructure across local communities.
Preliminary findings from the mission reveal that the computer park in Mouila is outdated and insufficient. Many computers lack antivirus software and essential office applications, while some offices are not equipped at all and lack internet connectivity. This forces agents to rely on outdated procedures. Técylia Moussavou Mbadinga épouse Ndong expressed concern about the inefficiency of work under these conditions and warned of risks associated with the lack of information protection.
The delegation from the Ministry of Digital Economy, Digitalization, and Innovation was received by Governor Francis Oyinamono. The mission's findings will contribute to a report to be submitted to the minister in charge and then to the General Secretariat of the Government. This will inform better planning for the digitalization of administration, in line with the National Growth and Development Plan (PNCD) 2026-2030, a key part of the presidential project.
The assessment is part of Gabon's efforts to implement its digital transformation policy. By evaluating and enhancing digital infrastructure in local communities, the government aims to improve public services and efficiency. The mission will continue in various localities of Ngounié province to ensure comprehensive coverage and accurate data collection.
Upon completion of the data collection in all nine provinces, the ministry will analyze the findings to propose strategic recommendations. These will focus on upgrading and expanding digital infrastructure, enhancing cybersecurity, and improving digital literacy among public servants. Ultimately, this initiative seeks to integrate digital tools effectively into daily administrative tasks, fostering a more efficient and modern public administration.
Key points
- The mission aims to establish a comprehensive overview of computer equipment and software in local communities.
- Preliminary findings reveal an outdated and insufficient computer park in Mouila.
- The assessment will inform better planning for the digitalization of administration in line with the National Growth and Development Plan (PNCD) 2026-2030.
