During the recent conclusion of the Gabon Economic Forum (GEF), Alain‑Claude Kouakoua, who presides over the Federation of Gabonese Enterprises (FEG), brought critical attention to one of the nation’s most sensitive economic challenges: the substantial debt owed by the State to private businesses across Gabon.

While this outstanding debt has been estimated at 4,340 billion FCFA for several years, Mr. Kouakoua suggested that this figure is likely inflated. According to the FEG leader, not all presented claims warrant consideration, as many dossiers are questionable, with inadequate or irregular supporting documentation.

Consequently, a joint audit is set to commence, a collaborative effort involving a dedicated Task Force and the Ministry of Economy. This crucial process will meticulously categorize claims, distinguishing between verifiable debt—those mutually confirmed and accepted—and uncertain claims, which will not be honored. No repayments will be processed until this audit is finalized. An immediate outcome is clear: the definitive amount will be lower than the figure that has circulated for months. Furthermore, approximately 50% of this debt is believed to have already been settled since the CTRI assumed power in August 2023. Alain-Claude Kouakoua also noted that businesses that received payments did not publicly disclose this, contributing to the ongoing ambiguity surrounding the total outstanding sum.

The upcoming repayment framework aligns with a key recommendation from GEF 2026. This plan prioritizes the clearance of domestic debt, specifically focusing on VAT credits and arrears from public contracts, through accelerated mechanisms, securitization, and cross-offsetting. This will be managed under a national clearance program, featuring a publicly accessible tracking table and a National Monitoring Committee. This committee will essentially re-establish the former Libreville Club.

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Although discussions at the forum also touched upon the reliability of public statistics and improvements to the CNAMGS, the State’s debt to private enterprises undeniably dominated the agenda.

For Gabon’s private sector, this announcement comes as a welcome development. After years marked by uncertainty, disputes, and prolonged waiting, a clear path has finally emerged towards a predictable, negotiated, and verified resolution. For many, this represents the fundamental condition necessary for the State and private businesses to gradually rebuild mutual trust and confidence.