Lagos, Nigeria – February 9, 2026
In a move set to accelerate Gabon’s digital and economic transformation, President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema has sealed three key memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with the United Arab Emirates during his recent working visit to Abu Dhabi. The agreements, spanning mining, digital modernization via artificial intelligence (AI), and logistics, underscore a deepening bilateral partnership aimed at bolstering Gabon’s infrastructure, public services, and investor appeal.
The digital agreement renews Gabon’s collaboration with Presight, a subsidiary of the UAE’s G42 group, focusing on leveraging AI, advanced analytics, and big data to modernize public administration and essential government services. This partnership is poised to enhance efficiency, transparency, and service delivery in a nation grappling with administrative challenges. In logistics, the MoU outlines strategic cooperation to upgrade port infrastructure, optimize operations, and streamline supply chains, potentially unlocking new trade avenues for Gabon’s resource-rich economy. The mining deal targets gold exploration and commercialization in mineral-laden regions, further diversifying Gabon’s economic base beyond oil.
These pacts were signed amid broader discussions on strengthening ties, culminating in a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) witnessed by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and President Oligui Nguema. The CEPA aims to slash tariffs, eliminate trade barriers, and spur investments in priority sectors like renewable energy, agriculture, food security, and infrastructure. “The signing represents our two nations’ joint commitment to building upon our growing economic cooperation,” stated Sheikh Mohamed, highlighting the UAE’s strategy to foster partnerships across Africa for mutual prosperity.
Gabon’s push for these collaborations comes at a critical juncture. The country, under Oligui Nguema’s transitional leadership following the 2023 coup, is addressing financial vulnerabilities, including high debt, arrears to creditors, and weak public-finance management. By tapping into UAE’s expertise in AI and logistics—exemplified by Presight’s global track record in smart governance solutions—Gabon aims to create local value, expedite project execution, and attract international investors. This aligns with continental trends, where AI is increasingly viewed as a tool for bridging infrastructure gaps and driving sustainable growth.
Social media buzz around the visit reflects optimism. Gabonreview noted the trip’s focus on consolidating a major economic partnership, while Aletihad English shared visuals of the CEPA signing, emphasizing shared commitments. Digital News Gabon highlighted how the deals reinforce economic ties, potentially positioning Gabon as a hub for AI-driven reforms in Central Africa.
However, challenges persist. Experts caution that successful implementation will require robust regulatory frameworks to ensure ethical AI use and equitable benefits.
Gabon’s ongoing reforms in governance and finance will be key to realizing the full potential of these agreements, which could add momentum to Africa’s broader AI ecosystem, projected to contribute trillions to GDP by 2035.
As Oligui Nguema’s visit concludes, these pacts signal Gabon’s ambition to emerge as a digitally empowered player on the global stage, leveraging UAE’s technological prowess for a more resilient future.
