Paul Kessany: 62.3% of projects fully completed in Gabon’s culture and sports sector
During a public accountability session broadcast on national television, Gabon’s Minister of Youth, Sports, Cultural Outreach and Arts, Paul Kessany, presented a dynamic sector report. Appointed on 2 January 2026, he revealed that 62.3% of the 53 targeted projects have been fully completed, while 24.5% show an execution rate exceeding 50%.
As Gabon’s Fifth Republic seeks to promote renewed momentum, some officials have clearly contributed significantly. Among them is Paul Ulrich Kessany Zategwa, who has worked to leave a mark in his ministry. In the youth domain, he set up a normalisation committee within the National Youth Council of Gabon (CNJG). This regulatory step was just one of many accomplishments.
Paul Kessany on the path of expected renewal
Observers can easily draw this conclusion given the early results in his portfolio. In sports, the minister launched an in-depth audit that led to the regularisation of 13 Olympic federations. This measure represents the first phase of a broader cleanup of the associative sports movement. Regarding infrastructure, the minister committed to bringing the national football team, the Panthères, back to home grounds within two years.
On the cultural front, notable legislative and technological advances were achieved. These include modernising the Gabonese Copyright Office (BUGADA) with 21 agents sworn in, and digitising 2,250 works. Paul Ulrich Kessany has thus strengthened efforts to protect national heritage. A decree issued on 22 May 2026 now regulates the exploitation of Iboga in the face of international commercial pressure, crowning these efforts. The country also gained diplomatic visibility during the 18th edition of FEMUA in Abidjan, a masterstroke that underscores his managerial skill to date.
