Gabon: Manganese and iron at the heart of a new partnership with China

Transforming manganese locally, facilitating iron ore mining in Belinga, and modernizing public services: these are the objectives of the new agreements concluded between Gabon and China on November 5, 2026, in Shanghai, in the presence of President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema.

In the mining sector, the Gabonese government, Eramet Comilog, and Sinohydro have agreed to study electricity supply solutions for a future manganese alloy plant. The project could leverage the hydroelectric potential of Ngoulmendjim. For Gabon, local processing would allow it to sell industrial products rather than relying solely on raw ore exports.

The Belinga iron ore deposit is also included. The commitments cover railway lines, wagon manufacturing, and the energy facilities necessary for its operation. Together with the future deep-water port of Kobe-Kobe, this infrastructure should facilitate the transport of the ore and its access to international markets.

In the digital sector, three agreements with Huawei concern public safety, university modernization, and equipping Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema University for artificial intelligence training. These investments could improve the working tools of security services and the learning conditions for students.

From underground infrastructure to universities, the agreements thus cover several needs of the Gabonese economy. Their translation into operational projects will be crucial in measuring the impact of this closer relationship with Beijing.

Yolande Bazié