Gabon

Gabon has emerged as a leading performer in emerging sovereign bond markets, driven by investor optimism that an International Monetary Fund program will prevent a debt restructuring.

Gabon's public debt is projected to rise from 70.9% of GDP in 2024 to 94.3% in 2027, according to IMF estimates. The increase is attributed to a $920m Eurobond issuance, with debt ratios expected to reach 78.9% in 2025 and 86.1% in 2026.

US companies have secured billions in African data center deals through partnerships with the Trump administration, outpacing China in key projects like Lesotho's $6.2 billion data center and hydropower plant. The Bureau of African Affairs reported $25.67 billion in closed transactions since 2025, with competition intensifying in markets such as Gabon.

Gabon successfully raised US$920 million through a seven-year Eurobond, surpassing its US$750 million target, despite a junk credit rating. The issuance occurred a month after Moody's downgraded the country's credit outlook to negative.

Ghana and Gabon have condemned xenophobia, emphasizing the need for Africans to collectively address the issue and all forms of discrimination. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to African integration.

French mining group Eramet is considering expanding manganese processing in Gabon under an agreement aimed at strengthening the country's industrial base, modernizing its railway network, and reducing reliance on unprocessed ore exports.

Gabon's President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema begins a three-day official visit to France, highlighting the close relationship between Paris and Gabon in Francophone Africa.

Gabon's public debt increased by 23% year-on-year to 8,780.3 billion FCFA as of December 2025, driven by a rise in domestic borrowing and a shift away from external financing. The government's reliance on regional markets contributed to the debt growth.

African leaders are demanding that foreign mining companies process minerals domestically rather than export raw materials, leveraging increased global demand for critical metals and geopolitical competition. Nigeria and Gabon have announced specific policies requiring value-added processing, with leaders arguing African nations must stop accepting unfavorable deal terms set outside the continent.

Gabon's media regulator suspended major social media platforms citing security concerns during anti-government protests, prompting widespread use of Virtual Private Networks to bypass restrictions. Activists claim this is part of a history of cracking down on dissent. The government's actions have led to warnings and account suspensions for activists and opposition members.

Gabon has initiated an audit of its public debt to determine which obligations should be formally recognized. This move is part of the country's efforts to secure a new International Monetary Fund program.

A California vineyard owner, Ernie Dosio, was trampled to death by elephants during a hunting expedition in Gabon's Lope-Okanda rainforest. Dosio, known for his animal trophy collection, was hunting yellow-backed duikers when he and his guide encountered a herd of five female elephants with a calf.

Ernie Dosio, a 75-year-old American millionaire and vineyard owner, died after being crushed by a group of elephants during a hunting expedition in Gabon. The incident occurred in the Lope-Okanda rainforest while he was hunting yellow-backed duiker.

Gabon's bonds experienced their largest selloff of the year following the IMF's warning about the country's debt issues. The financial downturn highlights growing concerns over Gabon's economic stability and debt management.