Gabon

Gabon, located on the west coast of Central Africa, is a resource-rich country with a wealth of mineral resources that play a significant role in its economy. Gabon is particularly known for its oil production and manganese deposits, but it also has other important minerals such as iron ore, gold, and uranium. Here’s an overview of the key mineral resources in Gabon:

Key Mineral Resources

1. Manganese:
   • Overview: Manganese is one of Gabon’s most important mineral resources and a major export commodity. Gabon is the second-largest producer of high-grade manganese ore in the world.
   • Major Manganese Mines: The Moanda mine, operated by Compagnie Minière de l’Ogooué (COMILOG), is one of the largest manganese operations in the country and is among the top producers globally.
   • Reserves: Gabon has substantial reserves of manganese, particularly in the southeastern region, ensuring its position as a key player in the global manganese market for years to come.
2. Oil and Natural Gas:
   • Overview: Oil is the most significant natural resource in Gabon and has been the cornerstone of its economy for decades. The country has been a major oil producer in Africa, although production has declined in recent years.
   • Major Oil Fields: Key oil-producing areas include the offshore fields in the Port-Gentil region and the onshore fields in the Gamba-Ivinga and Rabi-Kounga areas.
   • Reserves: Gabon has significant proven oil and gas reserves, although the sector faces challenges such as aging infrastructure and declining production from mature fields.
3. Iron Ore:
   • Overview: Gabon has large deposits of iron ore, particularly in the northeastern region. Iron ore is a critical resource for steel production.
   • Major Iron Ore Deposits: The Belinga iron ore deposit is one of the largest undeveloped iron ore reserves in Africa, with high-grade ore that has attracted significant interest from international investors.
   • Reserves: The iron ore reserves in Gabon are vast, particularly at the Belinga site, which has the potential to become a major source of iron ore for global markets.
4. Gold:
   • Overview: Gold mining is an emerging sector in Gabon, with both artisanal and industrial-scale operations. The government is promoting gold exploration and development as part of its efforts to diversify the economy.
   • Major Gold Mining Areas: Significant gold deposits are found in the southern and eastern regions, including the Bakoudou and Eteke areas.
   • Reserves: Gabon’s gold reserves are still being explored, with ongoing efforts to attract investment in the sector. The potential for further discoveries is high.
5. Uranium:
   • Overview: Gabon has significant uranium deposits, particularly in the southeastern region near Franceville. Uranium mining was historically a key industry in Gabon, although it has declined in recent years.
   • Major Uranium Mines: The Mounana mine, operated by the French company AREVA (formerly COGEMA), was once a major uranium producer but has since been closed.
   • Reserves: Gabon’s uranium reserves remain substantial, and there is potential for future development, particularly if global demand for nuclear energy increases.
6. Phosphates:
   • Overview: Phosphate deposits are found in Gabon, particularly in the southeastern region near Franceville. Phosphates are crucial for agriculture.
   • Reserves: The phosphate reserves in Gabon are significant, with potential for development to support both domestic agriculture and export markets.
7. Niobium:
   • Overview: Gabon has deposits of niobium, particularly in the Mabounié area. Niobium is a critical mineral used in high-tech industries.
   • Reserves: The niobium reserves in Gabon are substantial, and the government is working to attract investment to develop this resource.
8. Other Minerals:
   • Limestone: Found in various parts of Gabon, limestone is used in the production of cement and other construction materials.
   • Marble: Gabon has deposits of marble, which are used for construction and decorative purposes.

Investment and Extraction Situation

• Manganese Dominance: Manganese mining is a key contributor to Gabon’s economy, with the country being one of the world’s largest producers of high-grade manganese ore. The government and international companies are focused on maintaining and expanding production to meet global demand.
• Oil and Gas Sector: While oil remains a cornerstone of Gabon’s economy, the sector is facing challenges such as declining production and the need for new investments to develop offshore and onshore fields. The government is actively seeking to attract investment in both exploration and enhanced recovery technologies.
• Emerging Mining Sectors: Gabon’s government is actively promoting the development of other mineral resources, including iron ore, gold, and niobium, as part of its strategy to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil. The Belinga iron ore project and the Mabounié niobium project are among the key areas of focus for attracting foreign investment.
• Infrastructure Development: Infrastructure, particularly in transportation and energy supply, is crucial for the efficient extraction and export of mineral resources. Gabon is investing in improving its infrastructure, including railways, ports, and power generation, to support the growth of the mining sector.
• Environmental and Social Impact: Mining activities in Gabon must balance economic benefits with environmental and social impacts. Issues such as deforestation, water pollution, and the displacement of communities are important concerns. The government is working to ensure that mining activities are conducted sustainably and that the benefits are shared more equitably with local communities.