Gabon has initiated a pivotal transformation of its public utility sector, moving to distinctly separate the management of water supply from electricity distribution. On June 25, 2026, the Council of Ministers officially sanctioned two legislative proposals, leading to the establishment of ”Gabonaise des Eaux” and ”Électricité du Gabon”. These two new mixed-economy companies are now tasked respectively with the provision of potable water and electricity services across the nation.

By dismantling the integrated operational model previously held by the Société d’énergie et d’eau du Gabon (SEEG), the government has opted for a specialized approach. Each new operator will now possess a clearly defined scope of action, accompanied by more precise responsibilities. This organizational restructuring is anticipated to streamline investments and significantly elevate the standard of service quality. Gabon’s decision, however, is not an isolated one. Several other African nations have already adopted similar strategies; for instance, Senegal has entrusted water management to Sen’Eau and electricity to Senelec. In Côte d’Ivoire, these critical functions are divided between SODECI and CIE. Morocco’s ONEE also segregates these activities into autonomous branches to optimize financial oversight and investment strategies.

Wherever this specialization has been implemented, it has consistently led to enhanced clarity in responsibilities, bolstered the governance of operators, and created a more conducive environment for the sustained improvement of services delivered to consumers. For the former SEEG, a similar positive trajectory is expected, with the hopeful anticipation that the management of these two forthcoming entities will transcend the challenges experienced under the previous structure.