Gabon’s Ministry of Digital Economy, Digitisation and Innovation, alongside the Gabonese Federation of Enterprises (FEG), launched Kimba Connect 2026 Monday at the headquarters of the Bank of Central African States in Libreville. This initiative is framed as the nation’s first open innovation challenge, designed to bridge the gap between businesses grappling with transformation demands and local startups capable of delivering tailored digital solutions.

Central to the programme is an open call for challenges, where enterprises present their specific hurdles, and startups respond with innovative project proposals. The most promising submissions will receive mentorship to refine and implement their solutions.

Applications remain open until midnight on Tuesday, 14 July. The shortlisting phase concludes on 24 July, with the grand finale scheduled for 4 August 2026.

Mark Alexandre Doumba, Gabon’s Minister of Digital Economy, emphasised the programme’s core philosophy: “True innovation only matters when it solves real-world problems.” He highlighted that Kimba Connect 2026 will transform corporate challenges into growth opportunities while providing startups with greater market access and visibility.

The initiative’s organisers aim to foster open innovation, strengthen ties between established businesses and emerging startups, accelerate the country’s digital transformation, showcase Gabonese talent, and boost the national economy’s competitiveness.

Aligned with Gabon’s broader digitalisation agenda, the programme seeks to create a collaborative ecosystem where private enterprises and startups co-develop homegrown digital solutions. By doing so, authorities hope to enhance business competitiveness, nurture innovative entrepreneurship, and diversify the national economy.