Gabon's essential activities show mixed performance in Q1 2026 despite 38.9% annual growth

While overall activity saw a robust 38.9% increase year-on-year, the quarterly movement indicated a "relative sluggishness," with the composite index contracting by 0.6% quarter-on-quarter. The building and public works BTP sector was a key driver, showing resilience with a 7.7% rise in turnover, despite a slowdown compared to the previous quarter. This growth was attributed to ongoing projects in road infrastructure, engineering structures, and energy, including a hydroelectric dam and administrative complexes.

However, the report noted that the completion of major projects, such as the Palais des Congrès de la Cité de la Démocratie, contributed to this slowdown. In contrast, the refining sector saw a 1.7% decline quarter-on-quarter, primarily due to raw material supply constraints. The electricity sector experienced the most significant degradation, with a 13.2% decrease, caused by numerous production tool failures and insufficient maintenance resources, leading to significant power outages.

Water production also slightly decreased by 0.4%, affected by recurring disruptions from electricity cuts and technical incidents like mechanical seal leaks and pump failures.