Gabon's President Oligui Nguema demands immediate implementation of pan-African trade vision

During a Council of Ministers meeting on June 25, President Nguema instructed the government to immediately implement policies strengthening trade with other African countries, particularly in the food sector. He emphasized that favoring imports from African nations, especially food products, actively contributes to the continent's economic integration and shared prosperity among sister states. The President stressed that this directive is not a diplomatic stance but a firm instruction requiring immediate and resolute action.

This aligns with his consistent pan-African vision since taking power, advocating for a more economically integrated Africa capable of local value creation and regional supply chains. The initiative supports the African Continental Free Trade Area AfCFTA goals to boost intra-African trade. President Nguema's focus on food imports aims to shift supply chains from European or Asian markets towards African countries, strengthening continental trade and partner economies.

Ministerial departments are expected to adapt procurement policies, trade facilitation measures, and regulatory frameworks to prioritize African products. The presidential message underscores an obligation for the government to deliver concrete results, with the effective implementation of this directive serving as a key indicat