Libreville, June 30, 2026 — Gabon is leveraging its exceptional biodiversity to drive sustainable economic growth. In unveiling its new national sustainable tourism and craftsmanship strategy, the government has launched an ambitious initiative that extends well beyond the tourism sector.

The blueprint reflects a fresh national development vision, centered on harnessing natural capital, creating jobs, and diversifying an economy still heavily reliant on extractive industries. At the official launch in Libreville’s Cité de la Démocratie, top government officials, technical partners, diplomats, and private sector representatives gathered to witness the unveiling of a strategic document set to redefine Gabon’s economic landscape.

With global economic models under scrutiny and ecological transition gaining urgency, Gabon aims to position its forests, national parks, culture, and craftsmanship as pillars of sustainable growth. The Minister of Sustainable Tourism and Craftsmanship, Professor Marcelle Ibinga Itsitsa, emphasized that tourism is far more than an economic activity—it is a catalyst for territorial development, a showcase of national identity, and a powerful investment driver capable of transforming rural regions.

71 priority projects to scale up impact

Despite its internationally recognized potential, Gabon’s tourism sector has long struggled to fulfill its promise. Diagnostics presented during the launch highlighted decades of institutional, legal, and organizational weaknesses that have stifled the growth of a thriving tourism industry.

To break this cycle, the strategy outlines 71 priority projects focused on modernizing infrastructure, strengthening sector governance, professionalizing operators, expanding eco-tourism circuits, and promoting historical, cultural, and artisanal heritage. The goal is clear: significantly boost tourism’s contribution to GDP while safeguarding the ecological integrity that defines Gabon’s uniqueness.

In a continent where many nations seek to monetize their natural wealth, Gabon holds a rare competitive edge. Over 88% of its land is covered by forests, its national parks rank among Africa’s best-preserved, and its wildlife, flora, and landscapes form a global heritage whose economic potential remains largely untapped.

Breaking down silos for collective progress

Success hinges on one critical factor: coordinated public action. The Minister of Industry, Lubin Ntoutoume, stressed that no single ministry can achieve this alone. Developing tourism requires collaboration across infrastructure, transport, culture, environment, forestry, urban planning, and vocational training.

This integrated approach marks a shift in economic governance. Tourism is no longer seen as a peripheral sector but as a catalyst capable of stimulating private investment, creating jobs in remote areas, and propelling multiple industries forward simultaneously.

The strategy also places craftsmanship at the heart of the plan. By elevating local know-how, it preserves cultural heritage while generating income for thousands of families.

From vision to action

The appointment of actress and producer Nelly Obono as the face of the national tourism caravan, along with singer Annie Flore’s decision to lend her hit song Je t’invite for the country’s promotion, signals a commitment to involve cultural figures in the drive for change. Yet symbols alone won’t suffice—the focus now is on execution.

The Vice-President of the Republic, Alexandre Barro Chambrier, urged all administrations, local authorities, and businesses to embrace the strategy and turn it into tangible results. The official handover of the strategic document and the immediate formation of a dedicated implementation team mark the transition from planning to action.

The third edition of the national tourism caravan, scheduled from July 17 to September 6, will serve as the first real-world test of this new policy. For Gabon, the challenge goes beyond tourism—it’s about proving that a nation can convert environmental stewardship into lasting prosperity. In a world searching for sustainable economic models, this strategy could position Gabon as one of Africa’s most promising green economy laboratories.