The Transgabonaise highway project, a major infrastructure development aimed at connecting Libreville to several provinces in Gabon, has received a new lease on life. The project, which was stalled after the Indian construction company Afcons abandoned it due to technical and financial issues, has been taken over by the Chinese company CRBC. On September 24, 2026, Gabon's Minister of Public Works and Construction, Edgard Moukoumbi, visited the PK 24-PK 40 section of the National Highway 1 to inspect the resumption of work.
The Transgabonaise project is designed to serve the provinces of Moyen-Ogooué, Ogooué-Ivindo, Woleu-Ntem, Ogooué-Lolo, and Haut-Ogooué, providing a vital transportation link and boosting economic development in the region. The project has faced significant challenges, including a complex and marshy terrain, which has slowed progress. However, with CRBC on board, the project is expected to move forward, with the goal of completing the 16 km section of the highway.
During his visit, Minister Moukoumbi was accompanied by his colleague, Aimé Martial Massamba, Minister of Fisheries, and French Ambassador to Gabon, Fabrice Mauriès. The French ambassador highlighted the importance of the project and the role of the French investment fund Meridiam in financing the project. He noted that a visit by Gabon's President, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, to Paris in July 2026 helped to resolve issues between the project's stakeholders, paving the way for the resumption of work.
Philippe Julien, Deputy Managing Director of the Société Autoroutière du Gabon (SAG), expressed confidence in the project's progress, citing the company's commitment to maintaining international standards and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the infrastructure. SAG has a 30-year maintenance contract for the highway, which will help to guarantee its durability.
The resumption of work on the Transgabonaise project is a significant boost to Gabon's economy, which has faced challenges in recent years. The project is expected to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and improve transportation links between Libreville and the provinces. The CRBC's involvement is seen as a positive development, given the company's experience in large-scale infrastructure projects.
The Transgabonaise project is part of a broader effort to develop Gabon's infrastructure and stimulate economic growth. The project has faced significant delays and challenges, but with the involvement of CRBC and the support of international partners, including Meridiam, it is expected to move forward. The project's success will depend on the effective management of technical and financial challenges.
The revitalization of the Transgabonaise project is a welcome development for Gabon's economy and people. The project's completion will have a significant impact on the country's transportation network, economy, and overall development. Key stakeholders, including the government, CRBC, and SAG, will need to work together to ensure the project's successful completion.
Key points
- The Transgabonaise highway project has been revitalized with the involvement of Chinese company CRBC, which has taken over construction from Indian firm Afcons.
- The project aims to connect Libreville to several provinces in Gabon, providing a vital transportation link and boosting economic development in the region.
- The project's success will depend on the effective management of technical and financial challenges, with international partners, including Meridiam, providing support.
