Gabon Transitional President Nguema Visits Uganda

The transitional president of Gabon, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, is in Uganda on a two-day working visit.

Nguema was welcomed into the country by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. Following Nguema’s arrival, the two heads of state had a meeting at State House Entebbe. Additionally, Nguema, who was accompanied by the Gabonese First Lady Zita Oligui Nguema, was invited by the president.

The top agenda of their meeting included a brief on the political situation in Gabon.

“His Excellency Nguema updated me on the progress of the transition timetable, including the upcoming referendum. I thank him for the steps taken by the transitional government towards Gabon’s return to constitutional democracy.” Museveni on X.

Nguema becomes Gabon President

In August 2023, Brig Gen Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema became the transitional president of Gabon. This followed a military coup that overthrew President Ali Bongo Ondimba. Bongo, who had been in power since 2009, was ousted amid widespread discontent over election results and allegations of electoral fraud.

Brig Gen Nguema, a former top military officer, promised to address corruption and restore democratic processes. Prior to this, the Bongo family had ruled Gabon for approximately 55 years, starting with Omar Bongo Ondimba serving as president from 1967 until his death in 2009. Following his death, his son Ali Bongo Ondimba succeeded him until the 2023 coup.

In the meeting, Nguema also updated President Museveni on the progress of the transition. Gabon is currently preparing for the passing of a new constitution in October, which will be adopted through a referendum by the end of 2024.

Museveni commended Nguema’s leadership in spearheading a national dialogue to return democracy to the oil-rich nation.

“H.E. Nguema expressed his country’s desire to end dependence on food imports. He hopes to benefit from Uganda’s experience in its agricultural development program, with particular interest in wealth creation. We will continue collaborating at regional, continental, and international levels.” Museveni said.

Nguema also invited Museveni to visit Gabon to foster relationships between the two nations.