Gabon has taken a bold step toward modernizing its public utilities by separating the management of water and electricity services. On June 25, 2026, the Council of Ministers approved two new bills establishing the Gabonaise des Eaux and Électricité du Gabon, two mixed-economy companies tasked with overseeing water supply and electricity distribution, respectively.
By dismantling the long-standing integrated model of the Société d’énergie et d’eau du Gabon (SEEG), authorities aim to streamline operations and enhance accountability. Each new entity will operate within clearly defined boundaries, fostering a more transparent governance structure. The move is expected to attract investment and significantly improve service delivery for citizens across the country.
Gabon’s decision aligns with a broader regional trend. In Senegal, water services are managed by Sen’Eau, while electricity falls under Senelec. Ivory Coast has similarly split responsibilities between SODECI for water and CIE for electricity. Morocco has also adopted this approach, assigning water and energy management to autonomous branches under the Office National de l’Électricité et de l’Eau Potable (ONEE) to optimize financing and operational efficiency.
Across Africa, countries adopting this model have witnessed clearer accountability, stronger governance, and sustained improvements in public utility services. Gabon’s reforms are poised to deliver the same benefits, offering hope for a more reliable and efficient future under the new entities.
