Gabon Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Gabon, Republic of Western Central Africa; 268,000 km², 2.1 million residents (2019).The country borders Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon in the north and Congo in the east and west and has a coast to the Atlantic in the west. The capital is Libreville (797,000 residents, 2012).

Country facts

Republic of Gabonaise / Republic of Gabon
Country abbreviation: GA
Area: 268 000 km²
Population (2019): 2.1 million residents
Capital: Libreville
Main languages: French, Bantu languages
State: Republic
Head of State: Ali Ben Bongo (President)
Head of Government: Julien Nkoghe Bekale
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 8,030
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 6,800
Currency unit: 1 CFA franc = 100 centimes
Currency code: XAF
Country number (telephony): 241
Internet Domain Name: ga
Time difference compared to Sweden: 0
National Day: March 12 (formation of Parti démocratique gabonais, 1968)
Independence Day: August 17, 1960

Nature

Land use: forest (74%), agricultural land (0.1%), pasture land (0.1%)
Highest mountain: Milondo (1,020 m above sea level)
Longest river: Ogooué (800 km)

Population

Population density (2019): 8 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 2.1%; birthrate 27 ‰, deathrate 6 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (38%), 15-64 (58%), 65- (4%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 66 years, women 69 years
Infant mortality (2019): 34 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 4 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.702 (place 110 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 89%
Most populous cities (2012): Libreville (797,000 residents), Port-Gentil (150,500)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (5%), industry (45%), service (50%)
Exports (2017): US $ 5,564 million
Main export products: oil, timber
Main exporting countries: USA, China, Ireland
Imports (2017): US $ 2,829 million
Main import products: machinery, food, chemicals
Main importing countries: France, Belgium, China
Railway network (2014): 650 km

Geography of Gabon

Location and Borders

Gabon is located on the west coast of Central Africa, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, Equatorial Guinea and Cameroon to the north, and the Republic of the Congo to the east and south. With a coastline of over 800 kilometers (500 miles), Gabon is situated within the Congo Basin, a region rich in natural resources and biodiversity. Its position between the Congo River to the east and the Atlantic Ocean to the west gives it a strategic importance in both the African continent and in the global context.

Terrain and Landscape

Gabon’s landscape is marked by vast tropical forests, coastal plains, and mountains in the east. The country is part of the Congo Basin, and its extensive forest cover makes it one of the most ecologically diverse regions in the world. About 80% of Gabon’s land area is covered by rainforests, providing vital ecosystems for thousands of plant and animal species. The coastal regions are characterized by low-lying plains, while the inland is dominated by hilly terrain and plateaus, especially in the east where the land gradually rises into the Central Highlands.

The highest point in Gabon is Mount Iboundji, which rises to 1,575 meters (5,167 feet) in the northeast. The country’s rivers, such as the Ogooué, Komo, and Nyanga, provide key transportation routes, particularly for regions that are difficult to access by road. The Ogooué River, in particular, is the lifeblood of much of Gabon’s inland trade and transport system.

Natural Resources

Gabon is endowed with a wealth of natural resources, which are central to its economy. The country is a leading producer of oil and natural gas, and these resources make up the majority of Gabon’s export revenues. In addition to oil, Gabon has large deposits of minerals such as manganese, uranium, and gold. The country also has significant timber resources, with its rainforests providing an abundant supply of hardwood.

The country’s rich biodiversity is another crucial resource, particularly in the areas of ecotourism and conservation. Gabon is home to numerous national parks and nature reserves, protecting a vast array of wildlife, including gorillas, elephants, and many species of birds. The country has taken strides to preserve its natural heritage, establishing a number of protected areas and committing to environmental conservation.

Climate of Gabon

General Climate Zones

Gabon enjoys a tropical climate, characterized by high humidity and relatively stable temperatures throughout the year. The climate is heavily influenced by the equatorial position of the country, which results in regular rainfall and consistently warm temperatures. Gabon experiences two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season.

Rainy Season: From November to April, Gabon experiences its rainy season, with the heaviest rainfall occurring between March and May. During this period, the country’s rainforests are lush and vibrant, and the rivers swell, often leading to flooding in some areas. The rainiest regions are along the coastal plains and in the central parts of the country.
Dry Season: From May to October, Gabon enters its dry season, which is marked by lower humidity and less rainfall. The temperatures during this season remain warm, with average highs reaching around 30°C (86°F), though they can dip to 22°C (72°F) at night.

Temperature and Weather Patterns

Temperatures in Gabon are generally warm year-round, with average daily highs ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Coastal areas experience milder conditions due to the influence of the Atlantic Ocean, with a slightly cooler and more temperate climate compared to the inland regions. The higher elevations of the Central Highlands, however, experience cooler temperatures, with the weather becoming slightly more temperate as one moves away from the coast.

The weather patterns in Gabon are strongly influenced by the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), a band of low pressure near the equator that shifts north and south during the year, bringing heavy rains in the wet season. The dry season is characterized by the weakening of the ITCZ, which allows for drier, more stable conditions.

Environmental Challenges

Despite its rich natural resources and extensive forests, Gabon faces several environmental challenges, particularly deforestation, illegal logging, and poaching. The demand for timber, minerals, and agricultural expansion has led to habitat loss in parts of the country. Furthermore, the oil industry has contributed to environmental degradation, particularly in terms of pollution from oil spills and industrial waste. Gabon has made significant efforts in recent years to combat these issues, particularly through its commitment to sustainable development and conservation programs.

People of Gabon

Ethnic Composition

Gabon is home to a diverse array of ethnic groups, with over 40 different ethnicities across the country. The largest ethnic groups include the Fang, who are found primarily in the north and east, and the Myene, who are located in the central and coastal regions. Other significant groups include the Punu, the Nzebi, and the Bapounou. These various ethnic groups speak different languages, with many of them belonging to the Bantu language family.

The Fang people, who make up approximately a third of Gabon’s population, are one of the most prominent groups in the country. They are known for their rich cultural traditions and their influence on Gabon’s political and social landscape. The coastal groups, such as the Myene, have historically had strong ties to trade with other coastal regions and foreign countries.

Language and Religion

The official language of Gabon is French, a legacy of the country’s colonial past when it was a French protectorate and later a colony. French is the language used in government, education, and the media, though many Gabonese speak local languages in their daily lives. Among the most widely spoken indigenous languages are Fang, Myene, Punu, and Nzebi. In urban areas, people often speak a variety of indigenous languages in addition to French.

Religiously, Gabon is predominantly Christian, with around 80% of the population identifying as Roman Catholic or Protestant. Christianity was introduced during the colonial era and remains a dominant influence in the country. Traditional African religions are still practiced by a small percentage of the population, particularly in rural areas. Gabon is also home to a small Muslim minority, largely among the coastal populations due to historical trade connections with North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.

Population and Demographics

Gabon has a relatively small population, with an estimated 2023 population of approximately 2.3 million people. The population density is low compared to many other African countries, primarily due to the vast areas of uninhabited forest. Most of the population is concentrated in urban areas, especially in the capital city, Libreville, and other cities like Port-Gentil and Franceville. These cities are economic and political hubs and have seen significant urbanization in recent decades.

Gabon has a youthful population, with a large proportion under the age of 30. Despite this, the country faces demographic challenges, including high unemployment, particularly among young people, and inadequate access to quality education and healthcare in rural regions.

Economy of Gabon

Oil and Gas

The economy of Gabon is heavily reliant on its natural resources, with oil and gas accounting for around 80% of its export revenue and about 45% of its GDP. Gabon is one of the top oil producers in sub-Saharan Africa, with oil reserves primarily located offshore. The discovery of oil in the 1970s transformed the country’s economy and provided significant revenue that has funded the development of infrastructure and social services. However, the country faces challenges in managing its oil wealth, particularly in terms of diversification and ensuring sustainable development.

Agriculture and Timber

Agriculture is another key sector of the Gabonese economy, although it is less developed than the oil industry. Gabon produces a variety of crops, including cassava, yams, plantains, bananas, and rice. Cocoa and coffee are also grown, though on a smaller scale compared to neighboring countries like Côte d’Ivoire.

Timber is another important natural resource for Gabon, and the country has some of the richest forests in Africa. Gabon is a significant exporter of hardwood, with timber processing forming an important part of the manufacturing sector. However, the timber industry has faced challenges related to illegal logging and over-exploitation, leading the government to focus on sustainable forestry practices.

Services and Tourism

The services sector, particularly banking, telecommunications, and tourism, has become increasingly important in Gabon’s economy. The country’s well-developed infrastructure and natural beauty have made it a destination for eco-tourism. Gabon’s numerous national parks, such as Loango National Park and Ivindo National Park, attract visitors interested in wildlife, hiking, and natural landscapes. In particular, Gabon’s commitment to environmental conservation has contributed to the growth of eco-tourism in recent years.

Despite these efforts, the country still faces challenges related to economic diversification. Gabon remains dependent on oil and raw material exports, and economic growth has been slow in recent years due to fluctuations in global commodity prices and limited industrial development.

Government of Gabon

Political Structure

Gabon is a republic with a presidential form of government. The country’s political system is defined by the Constitution of 1961, which has been amended several times. The president holds substantial executive power, serving as both the head of state and government. The president is elected for a seven-year term and is allowed to serve multiple terms. The current president, Ali Bongo Ondimba, has been in office since 2009, following the death of his father, Omar Bongo, who ruled for over 40 years.

The legislative branch of Gabon consists of a bicameral parliament, which includes the National Assembly and the Senate. The National Assembly is composed of 120 members elected by direct popular vote, while the Senate consists of 102 members, with some appointed by the president and others elected by local councils. The judiciary is independent, but it has been criticized for its lack of transparency and independence in some cases.

Political Landscape

Gabon has experienced relatively stable governance in recent decades, although there have been significant political challenges, including disputed elections. The 2009 election, following the death of President Omar Bongo, was particularly contentious, with widespread allegations of electoral fraud. Protests and opposition movements have arisen throughout the years, but the political scene has remained largely controlled by the ruling Gabonese Democratic Party (PDG).

In recent years, there have been efforts to increase political transparency and reform, but these efforts have been met with limited success due to entrenched political elites and the president’s control over the key institutions of power.

Culture of Gabon

Traditional Arts and Crafts

Gabon has a rich cultural heritage, with diverse traditions in art, music, and dance. Traditional arts in Gabon are centered around masks, carvings, and textiles, often used in religious ceremonies and social events. Gabonese masks, made from wood, are particularly famous and are used in rituals that honor ancestors or represent spirits. The Fang people are known for their intricate wood carvings, while the Punu people are celebrated for their beadwork and colorful woven textiles.

Music is an integral part of Gabonese culture, with drumming and percussion playing a central role in traditional ceremonies. Gabonese musicians often use instruments like the balafon, drums, and the ngombi, a harp-like string instrument. Modern popular music in Gabon blends traditional styles with Western influences, including jazz, hip-hop, and pop music.

Cuisine

Gabonese cuisine is influenced by the country’s diverse ethnic groups and natural resources. Fish is a major part of the diet, with the country’s extensive coastline providing ample seafood. Cassava, plantains, yams, and rice are staple foods, and are often prepared in stews or boiled to accompany grilled meats and fish. Gabonese dishes include pounded cassava (called fufu in other regions), brochettes (grilled meat skewers), and poulet nyembwe (chicken with a peanut sauce).

Tropical fruits such as mangoes, bananas, and pineapples are commonly eaten, and palm oil is widely used in cooking. The variety of food reflects the country’s agricultural and coastal abundance, providing both traditional and modern culinary influences.

Festivals and Holidays

Gabon celebrates several national and cultural festivals, many of which have religious or historical significance. The most important holidays are related to the Christian calendar, including Christmas and Easter, but Gabon also celebrates its independence on August 16th, marking its liberation from French colonial rule in 1960. Traditional festivals are often centered around ethnic or regional celebrations, such as the Fang people’s “Ngondo” festival, which celebrates their heritage and spiritual beliefs.

Sports, especially football (soccer), play a significant role in Gabonese culture, with national football games drawing large crowds and fostering national pride. Traditional dances and music festivals are also a popular form of cultural expression, showcasing Gabon’s vibrant artistic heritage.

History of Gabon

Pre-Colonial and Colonial History

Gabon has a rich history that dates back to the early settlements of various ethnic groups. The country’s coastal regions were important centers for trade and interaction with European merchants and explorers. The Portuguese were the first Europeans to arrive in Gabon in the 15th century, followed by the French in the 19th century, who established it as a French protectorate in 1885. Gabon became a French colony in 1910, as part of French Equatorial Africa.

During the colonial period, the French introduced the system of forced labor, which led to economic exploitation and the establishment of plantations. Despite the hardships, Gabon’s indigenous people maintained their cultural practices and resisted full European domination.

Independence and Modern Politics

Gabon gained independence from France on August 16, 1960, under the leadership of Léon M’ba, who became the first president of the newly independent nation. However, political stability in Gabon was largely ensured by the Bongo family, which came to power in 1967 when Omar Bongo became president. He remained in power until his death in 2009, after which his son, Ali Bongo Ondimba, took office.

Gabon has experienced significant political challenges, including contested elections and allegations of electoral fraud. However, the country has maintained relative peace and stability in comparison to other nations in the region. The Gabonese government has faced criticism for human rights abuses, lack of political freedoms, and corruption, but it has also made strides in environmental conservation and economic diversification.

Recent Developments

In recent years, Gabon has worked to modernize its economy and political institutions, particularly by investing in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. However, political opposition remains strong, and protests have occurred due to dissatisfaction with governance, corruption, and electoral fairness. The Bongo family’s grip on power has faced challenges, though it remains a significant force in the country’s political landscape.

Gabon continues to evolve, balancing economic development with the preservation of its rich natural resources and culture. The country remains one of Africa’s more stable nations, but challenges surrounding political reform, economic diversification, and social equity persist.