After leading Gabon’s delegation to the 66th independence anniversary celebrations in Madagascar, Vice President Hermann Immongault took time to meet with Gabonese nationals living in Antananarivo. The gathering offered a direct platform for the diaspora to voice daily challenges and reaffirmed Libreville’s commitment to maintaining close ties with its citizens abroad.

During the exchanges, diaspora representatives highlighted several persistent difficulties faced by Gabonese residents in Madagascar. Chief among these was the lack of a permanent consular presence, which complicates many administrative procedures. Issues concerning Gabonese students also featured prominently, including scholarship monitoring, recognition of academic institutions, and the need for stronger academic exchanges. Community members further called for enhanced economic cooperation between the two countries to boost entrepreneurial ventures and cross-border investments.

Cooperation set to strengthen

In response, Hermann Immongault assured the attendees that their concerns would be carefully examined by the relevant authorities. He emphasised the need to deepen interactions between Libreville and Antananarivo, particularly regarding visa policies, scholarships managed by the National Scholarship Agency of Gabon (ANBG), and student support. The vice president underscored the goal of building a closer relationship with Madagascar, in line with the vision shared by both heads of state.

Addressing business leaders as well, Hermann Immongault encouraged Malagasy entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in Gabon, especially in agro-industry and energy. He stated that institutional and economic exchanges between the two nations are set to multiply in the coming months. This engagement with the diaspora is part of a broader effort to stay connected with Gabonese abroad and to make cooperation between Libreville and Antananarivo a driver of development, benefiting the people and economic actors of both countries.

By Boureima Amadou — Reporter