Gabon, a Central African nation, has made significant strides in its digital landscape in recent years. Now, the country is poised to take a major leap forward with the launch of the Gabon Digital project. This ambitious initiative, backed by the World Bank, aims to leverage digital technologies to boost economic competitiveness, enhance administrative transparency, and position Gabon as a digital frontrunner in Africa.
Scheduled for November 7th, the Gabon Digital project encompasses a wide range of initiatives. These include modernising social aid management through a unified social registry, securing sensitive data with a state-of-the-art data centre, establishing a robust cybersecurity infrastructure, digitising civil registration systems, and introducing a digital payment system.
The project aligns with the National Transition Development Plan (PNDT) 2024-2026, which prioritises digital transformation as a key driver of economic growth and development. It also complements other digital initiatives, such as eGabon, which focuses on strengthening the healthcare system.
While the digital sector has contributed around 5% of Gabon’s GDP for the past five years, authorities are aiming to increase this figure to 10-12% by 2025. The Gabon Digital project is expected to play a pivotal role in achieving this goal by maximising the impact of digital solutions on the national economy.
Beyond its economic benefits, the project also seeks to stimulate the emergence of new business sectors and create jobs in the digital domain. By diversifying Gabon’s economy, which is heavily reliant on the oil sector, the project lays the foundation for more sustainable and resilient development.
Gabon’s Digital project is a pivotal milestone in its digital evolution. By harnessing technology to bolster governance, stimulate economic growth, and foster innovation, Gabon is poised to become a trailblazer in Africa’s digital transformation.
