The President of Gabon has once again highlighted the persistent challenges of reliable water and electricity access for households, emphasizing the need for transparency. While he acknowledges that solutions won’t materialize overnight, he reassures citizens that progress is underway.

Water and electricity remain scarce resources for many families in Libreville and beyond, despite substantial investments made during the Transition period. The Head of State has underscored the government’s commitment to addressing these critical needs, acknowledging past mismanagement over the past 14 years.

To tackle these issues head-on, the President has announced sweeping reforms for the Gabonese Energy and Water Company (SEEG), citing its inability to invest effectively due to bloated staffing. “SEEG in its current state simply cannot invest. That’s why reform is essential,” he stated. The company, which employs over 2,300 workers but has only 300 engineers and around 500 field agents, will be split into two distinct entities—one dedicated to water, the other to electricity.

This restructuring aims to streamline operations, improving production, distribution, and commercialization. The move reflects a broader strategy to overhaul the country’s utilities sector and restore confidence in public services.