As Gabon prepares to mark its 66th Independence Day, President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema has announced the release of 51 billion CFA francs to address outstanding payments owed to businesses. This initiative aims to bolster small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and stimulate private sector growth.
The government is accelerating efforts to clear domestic arrears, with the president confirming the settlement of 51 billion FCFA in claims before the national holiday. Of this amount, 30 billion FCFA will be allocated to companies in the mining and forestry sectors, while the remaining 21 billion FCFA will cover payments to other businesses, with priority given to SMEs and mid-sized firms.
The decision follows a high-level meeting between the Head of State and representatives from the Fédération des Entreprises du Gabon, along with leaders of SMEs and mid-sized companies. Held at the Palais de la Rénovation in Libreville, the discussions focused on the challenges faced by private enterprises, job preservation, and measures to sustain economic activity.
For the initial phase, the Treasury will mobilize 21 billion FCFA to honor 1,478 payment orders issued between 2022 and 2026. These funds will benefit businesses operating in critical sectors such as construction, maintenance, food supply, and fuel distribution—all vital to the nation’s economic stability.
Government officials emphasize that this move will strengthen corporate cash flows, sustain operations, and safeguard employment. The announcement is part of a broader strategy to reduce the country’s domestic debt, currently estimated at 4,652 billion FCFA, by systematically clearing arrears owed to the private sector.
By unlocking these funds, authorities aim to enhance business operating conditions and inject momentum into Gabon’s economy. The 51 billion FCFA release represents a pivotal step in this long-term plan to support national enterprises and stabilize the country’s economic landscape.