Government reviews BAD-funded projects to boost progress

Gabon’s government has intensified efforts to tighten oversight of projects financed by the African Development Bank (BAD), aiming to expedite their completion. In line with this strategy, Vice President of the government Hermann Immongault led a high-level meeting with a BAD delegation, headed by the institution’s country representative Mamour Ousmane Ba. The session, held in Libreville, also included the Minister of Planning, Louise Mvono, and the Minister of Agriculture, Pacôme Kossy. This gathering follows recent discussions in Brazzaville between the President of Gabon and the BAD President during the institution’s annual meetings, where the focus was on assessing project progress and addressing implementation bottlenecks.

Immongault emphasized the government’s commitment to stricter monitoring of all projects under BAD financing. The administration insists that borrowed funds must yield tangible benefits for citizens, aligning with the objectives of the National Growth and Development Plan. He underscored the need for transparency, efficiency, and strict adherence to deadlines, stressing that accountability at every level is essential to enhancing the impact of public investments.

Action plan to fast-track delayed projects

A dedicated action plan was formulated during the meeting to address significant delays in key infrastructure projects. Two initiatives have been singled out for urgent attention: the Integrated Program for Potable Water Supply and Sanitation in Libreville (PIAEPAL) and the Ndendé-Doussala road project. Regarding the latter, Immongault echoed the President’s concerns over the project’s sluggish pace, urging immediate corrective measures. The government has also reviewed internal inefficiencies to improve coordination with BAD and ensure smoother implementation.

Mamour Ousmane Ba commended Gabon’s reform efforts and reaffirmed BAD’s dedication to supporting the country’s national priorities. He highlighted the New Financial Architecture for African Development (NAFAD), a strategic framework designed to enhance investment efficiency across the continent. BAD, already engaged in Gabon through a portfolio of transformative projects in water supply, vocational training, agriculture, and road infrastructure, remains committed to backing the nation’s development ambitions.

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