The Société nationale immobilière (SNI) of Gabon is taking steps to improve access to property for its citizens. According to Stéphanie Ona Ondo, the SNI's deputy general manager, the organization is diversifying its offerings to make property ownership more accessible. This includes the sale of housing and land, as well as support for self-construction and financing solutions. The SNI's goal is to adapt its services to the financial means of future property owners.
The SNI provides a range of services beyond just selling land and housing. These services include land development, construction, and support for self-construction, particularly for individuals who want to build their own homes based on their financial capabilities. For example, if a person has 10 million FCFA to build a house, the SNI will help determine what type of architectural project can be realized with that budget. This approach allows the SNI to tailor its services to the needs and financial means of its clients.
The SNI is also developing new housing programs. One such program involves the construction of 3,100 housing units in Bikélé and Essassa, with prices ranging from 30 to 80 million FCFA, depending on the characteristics of the properties. Interested individuals can already obtain pre-acquisition forms, which require documents such as identification, birth certificates, bank statements, employment certificates, and salary slips. This initiative aims to provide a wider range of affordable housing options for Gabon's citizens.
In addition to its housing programs, the SNI is expanding its land offerings. New land operations are planned in Angondjé and Akanda. In Makokou, in the Ogooué-Ivindo province, land plots are available starting at 3,000 FCFA per square meter, while in Ndendé, in the Ngounié province, plots start at 900 FCFA per square meter. The SNI also plans to develop villa offerings in Ndendé, with estimated costs between 30 and 40 million FCFA. These initiatives aim to provide more land options for individuals and families.
The SNI is also working to improve access to property through financing solutions. The organization aims to establish an ecosystem that brings together real estate developers, banks, and insurance companies to facilitate project financing and protect investments against risks such as fires, floods, and theft. This approach will help make property ownership more accessible to a wider range of people. By working with various stakeholders, the SNI hopes to create a more comprehensive and supportive environment for property buyers.
The SNI's efforts to diversify its offerings and improve access to property have been well-received by the public. During the recent Housing Open Days, the SNI recorded nearly 4,000 visitors over the first two days and received around 400 people at its stand on the final day. According to Stéphanie Ona Ondo, this high level of interest demonstrates the public's trust in the SNI, particularly in terms of securing investments. The organization plans to build on this momentum by modernizing its communication and strengthening its presence on digital platforms.
The SNI's initiatives align with the government's program and the National Development Plan (PND). By providing a more diverse, accessible, and secure range of housing and land options, the SNI aims to contribute to the country's development goals. The organization's efforts to improve access to property are expected to have a positive impact on the lives of many Gabonese citizens, enabling them to own their own homes and build a more secure future.
Key points
- The SNI is diversifying its offerings to improve access to property in Gabon, with a range of housing and land options, construction support, and financing solutions.
