Gabon has taken a major step toward becoming a leading digital economy in Central Africa by announcing a substantial increase in its digital transformation budget to FCFA 82 billion under the 2026 Finance Bill.
The new allocation, presented by the Ministry of Digital Economy, Digitalisation, and Innovation, marks more than a twofold increase from the FCFA 32 billion allocated in 2024.
The presentation of the 2026 Draft Finance Bill (PLF 2026) to the Transitional Parliament highlights the government’s growing commitment to harnessing technology for sustainable national development.
The event was held under the guidance of His Excellency Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, President of the Republic, Head of State, and Head of Government.
The 2026 Finance Bill prioritizes the digitalization of public administration and the advancement of innovative investment projects as central tools for economic modernization.
Government officials described the increased funding as a strategic move to accelerate Gabon’s transition into a performance-driven and innovation-led economy.
According to the Ministry of Digital Economy, the expanded budget will support a wide range of digital initiatives aimed at transforming public services and stimulating private sector growth.
The plan includes investments in broadband expansion, e-governance systems, digital payment platforms, and innovation hubs to foster homegrown technology solutions.
Officials said the funding will also be used to promote digital entrepreneurship and support start-ups that are developing technology-driven solutions to local and regional challenges.
“The digital transformation of Gabon is no longer a dream. It is a clear and deliberate strategy for national renewal and sustainable development,” the Ministry said in a statement shared with The Africa Standard.
The Ministry added that strengthening Gabon’s digital ecosystem would enhance transparency in governance, improve efficiency in public institutions, and increase citizen access to essential services.
The government’s approach aligns with President Oligui Nguema’s broader vision to build a resilient and inclusive economy powered by innovation and technology.
In addition to developing digital infrastructure, the plan emphasizes building digital skills through training and education programs for youth and public servants.
This effort seeks to ensure that Gabon’s workforce is equipped for emerging opportunities in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data analytics, and digital finance.
The Ministry confirmed that part of the FCFA 82 billion budget will be dedicated to upgrading Gabon’s fiber optic backbone and expanding internet connectivity to underserved communities.
Digital inclusion remains a central priority for the government, ensuring that rural and remote populations benefit equally from the digital economy.
The bill also outlines new policies to strengthen collaboration between the public and private sectors in technology development.
Officials stated that partnerships with international investors and local innovators will play a vital role in scaling up Gabon’s digital capacity and promoting entrepreneurship.
The government’s increased investment signals confidence in the digital sector’s potential to drive job creation and diversification beyond traditional industries such as oil and mining.
Economists have hailed the move as a turning point for Gabon’s post-transition development agenda, positioning the nation as a future regional leader in innovation.
They noted that by prioritizing digital transformation, Gabon is building the foundation for stronger governance, improved transparency, and enhanced competitiveness.
The Ministry’s blueprint also aligns with the African Union’s Digital Transformation Strategy, which aims to connect every African government, business, and citizen by 2030.
As implementation begins, the focus will be on ensuring accountability, measurable progress, and inclusive participation from all segments of society.
By embedding technology into the heart of governance and economic planning, Gabon is setting a precedent for other African nations seeking to leapfrog into a digital future.
The Ministry reaffirmed that the 2026 budget represents not just an investment in technology, but an investment in the people of Gabon and their future prosperity.
