Gabon seeks to revolutionize its transport network by learning from Senegal

During a recent official working visit to Dakar, the Gabonese Minister of State for Transport, Merchant Marine, and Logistics, Ulrich Manfoumbi Manfoumbi, held productive discussions with his Senegalese counterpart, Abdoul Ahad Ndiaye. The bilateral talks focused on upgrading infrastructure and fostering a robust partnership between Libreville and Dakar, driven by a mutual desire for knowledge exchange.

Gabon plans to restructure its domestic transport networks by drawing inspiration from Senegal’s proven systems. Discussions spanned various aspects of land and air transit. Senegal’s successful management of the Blaise Diagne International Airport, alongside its expanding road and rail systems, serves as an exemplary blueprint for Gabon’s upcoming projects.

Aligning regulations and boosting connectivity

The two leaders also explored ways to align safety protocols and regulatory frameworks with global standards. This alignment is crucial for ensuring seamless transit operations and sharing technical expertise in airport security, operational management, and professional training.

By building on Senegal’s achievements, Gabon hopes to rapidly upgrade its own infrastructure, streamline traffic flow, and overhaul public transportation. This structural revamp aims to breathe new life into a sector requiring urgent modernization. Additionally, the Gabonese government is focusing on multimodal logistics to establish better connections between land routes and air links, which will help connect remote regions and facilitate the movement of goods and passengers.

Strengthening South-South cooperation

Beyond the technical aspects, this collaboration highlights a shared commitment to strengthening South-South cooperation. By pooling resources and exchanging best practices, both nations are positioning the transport sector as a vital engine for economic development, regional trade, and broader continental integration.