Monday 5th January 2026
By inAfrika Newsroom
A Gabon finance minister reshuffle has put fiscal management back in focus, after President Brice Oligui Nguema replaced Finance Minister Henri-Claude Oyima amid liquidity strain and rising arrears. The move comes as the government faces tougher financing conditions and pressure over the cost of living.
A decree named Thierry Minko, previously a technical adviser, as minister in charge of the economy, finance, debt and shareholdings, with a mandate that also includes tackling high prices. In addition, Marc Abeghe was appointed to oversee the budget portfolio.
The reshuffle follows a downgrade by Fitch, which pointed to a widening fiscal deficit and limited access to official creditor funding. Meanwhile, the agency forecast government debt rising sharply over the next few years, reflecting both financing needs and constrained options.
Gabon is an oil producer, yet the state has struggled with cashflow and payment backlogs. Therefore, the leadership change is being read as an attempt to restore confidence with creditors and suppliers. However, a personnel shift alone will not close funding gaps without credible revenue and spending actions.
The government has also been looking for new ways to raise money. In December, officials said Gabon plans to introduce a housing tax in 2026, with proceeds earmarked for public lighting, roads and city maintenance. Consequently, the policy will likely draw scrutiny over fairness, enforcement and the ability to ring-fence funds for visible services.
Markets and citizens will now watch for an updated financing plan, including arrears clearance steps and debt management signals. Meanwhile, details on the housing tax design and rollout will be crucial for credibility.
Gabon’s fiscal squeeze affects salaries, suppliers and basic services. So, faster clarity on arrears, taxes and debt can stabilise the economy and reduce everyday pressure on households.
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