Gabon’s President Brice Oligui Nguema’s upcoming visit to France, set for Monday, July 20, 2026, will focus on reviewing agreements finalized in Libreville during Emmanuel Macron’s last visit in November 2025. According to the Gabonese presidency, these discussions will address pressing economic and strategic concerns for both nations.

A major point of contention revolves around Gabon’s push to localize manganese processing. Comilog, a subsidiary of the French group Eramet, currently exports raw manganese from Gabon. However, Libreville has set a strict January 2029 deadline: all manganese must undergo initial processing within Gabon before export. While Paris supports the principle, negotiations are underway to adjust the timeline, as Gabon’s infrastructure and energy sectors require substantial investment to meet this demand. “This is the core purpose of the President’s visit,” emphasized a spokesperson for President Oligui Nguema late last week.

Water supply and military cooperation on the agenda

Another critical topic is the water supply agreement signed with Suez one year ago. Despite commitments totaling 120 billion CFA francs, progress has stalled, prompting France to urge adherence to the terms. Additionally, Gabon is seeking greater autonomy from French military presence, including the transfer of ownership of the Camp de Gaulle—a former French military base—and its renaming. Moving forward, defense cooperation will reportedly focus solely on training initiatives.

Gabon is also diversifying its international partnerships, engaging with countries like China, Turkey, and India. Nonetheless, France remains Gabon’s primary diplomatic ally.

Gabon’s debt crisis looms large

While not officially confirmed, Gabon’s mounting debt—exceeding 70% of its GDP—will undoubtedly be a key topic. Libreville has initiated a comprehensive audit, with results expected by the end of July. Concurrently, Gabon is negotiating a program with the IMF, though as of late June, several required documents had yet to be submitted.

France, which chairs the Paris Club—a consortium of creditor nations—has advocated for a financial solution negotiated with international institutions. The country’s debt crisis is particularly concerning for the sub-region, as it threatens to destabilize the CFA franc and disrupt regional economic balance.