Gabon’s Ministry of Digital Economy, Digitalisation and Innovation and the Federation of Gabonese Enterprises (FEG) have launched Kimba Connect 2026, the country’s inaugural national open innovation challenge, at the headquarters of the Bank of Central African States (BEAC) in Libreville.

Designed to bridge the gap between businesses facing digital transformation hurdles and local startups ready to deliver cutting-edge solutions, the initiative invites companies to submit their challenges while Gabonese tech entrepreneurs propose innovative responses. Promising projects will receive mentorship and support to bring their ideas to fruition.

The application window remains open until midnight on Tuesday, July 14. A preliminary selection phase is scheduled for July 24, with the grand finale set for August 4, 2026.

Mark Alexandre Doumba, Gabon’s Minister of Digital Economy, emphasised the programme’s core philosophy: “Innovation only holds value when it addresses real-world needs.” He highlighted how Kimba Connect 2026 will not only convert corporate challenges into growth opportunities but also provide startups with enhanced market access and increased visibility.

Beyond fostering collaboration, the initiative aims to:

• Drive the country’s digital transformation agenda;
• Showcase the talents of Gabon’s tech community;
• Strengthen ties between established businesses and emerging startups;
• Boost the nation’s economic competitiveness through digital solutions developed locally.

This programme aligns with Gabon’s broader strategy to accelerate digital modernisation and nurture homegrown innovation. By creating a structured platform for public-private collaboration, authorities seek to enhance enterprise competitiveness, fuel entrepreneurial growth, and diversify the national economy through technology-driven solutions.

By Boureima Amadou — Reporter