Monday 24th November 2025
by inAfrika Newsroom
French President Emmanuel Macron said Africa resource extraction can no longer define Europe’s relationship with the continent, calling for “win-win partnerships” after talks with Gabon’s transitional leader Brice Oligui Nguema. Speaking during an African tour that has taken him through Mauritius, South Africa and Gabon, Macron argued that cooperation should now prioritise energy, infrastructure and shared prosperity instead of raw commodity exports.
Macron said in Libreville that Africa resource extraction must give way to new models “respectful of everyone’s interests,” adding that France wants to be exemplary in rebuilding trust. He welcomed Gabon’s transition process after the 2023 coup and highlighted French backing for reforms framed as more inclusive and pluralistic.
The French leader noted that Paris has overhauled its defence cooperation with Gabon, moving toward joint training and equipment tailored to local needs. He also pointed to French Development Agency involvement in the Trans-Gabon Railway upgrade, which is seen as critical for both freight and passenger flows linked to the country’s economic diversification plans.
Macron’s comments matter because they acknowledge a long-criticised pattern in which African economies export raw materials and import finished goods at a loss. If major European partners move beyond simple Africa resource extraction, African governments can negotiate more investment in processing plants, rail corridors and renewable energy projects on their own soil. That shift can support higher-value jobs, better tax bases and stronger bargaining power in global value chains. It also pressures other external partners, including China and the Gulf states, to match higher standards on transparency, debt terms and local content.
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