In a strategic move to unlock Gabon’s mineral wealth, the Nyanga province has become a focal point for international investors eyeing its vast mining potential. A high-level meeting chaired by Vice-President Hermann Immongault brought together key ministers overseeing energy, water, transport, mining, industry, and environmental sectors, alongside representatives from the Chinese conglomerate Hui Neng Group.
The gathering centered on the Banio potash deposit, hailed as one of southern Gabon’s most promising mining ventures. Already operational in Laos and Sierra Leone, Hui Neng—a major player in energy, thermal chemistry, and potash—seeks to expand its footprint in Gabon. During the discussions, Li Yongzhen, Vice-President of the group, emphasized the company’s commitment to understanding the government’s strategic vision and the conditions for developing the Banio project.
« We have an investment project in Gabon and aim to gain deeper insights into the government’s priorities and the framework for advancing the Banio initiative, » he stated following the meeting.
Infrastructure and energy: pillars for industrial growth
Government officials outlined a series of transformative projects to bolster Nyanga’s mining sector. A centerpiece is the proposed deep-water port in Mayumba, currently in negotiations with the Abu Dhabi Group. This critical infrastructure will streamline the export of potash, iron, marble, and other minerals. Additionally, authorities unveiled an ambitious energy roadmap: national production capacity is set to surge from 16.5 megawatts today to over 2,100 megawatts by 2030, ensuring robust support for future industrial ventures.
Li Yongzhen expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the talks, highlighting the next phases: on-site visits, infrastructure assessments, and technical evaluations in collaboration with relevant agencies. For his part, Vice-President Immongault underscored Gabon’s commitment to attracting investments that drive economic diversification, energy sovereignty, and local value addition. « Every initiative will be processed in Gabon, fully compliant with environmental standards, » he affirmed.
