History of Gabon

Gabon is rather near the Congo, Cameroon, and Equatorial Guinea. Its riches come from minerals, wood, oil, and a great range of flora and wildlife.

Early History

Bantu tribes have lived in Gabon for thousands of years, so its history goes back there. Usually farmers and fishermen, these tribes resided in small communities. They also produced beautiful art and worked at ironworking. They set up shops selling slaves and ivory. Arriving in the late 19th century, the French also colonized Gabon alongside other African nations.

Colonial Era

Gabon was French Congo from 1885 to 1910; its name was changed to Gabon afterward. Particularly with regard to rubber and timber, the French exploited Gabon's natural wealth throughout this era. They also discouraged traditional celebrations and customs and urged many Gabonese people to work. A nationalist movement advocating freedom from France started in Gabon early in the 20th century. Once more, Africans were educated and exposed to ideals of independence following World War II, this movement acquired momentum.

French rule and independence 

In 1960, Gabon gained its freedom from France. Rising to be Gabon's first president, Léon M'ba remained in power until his 1967 death. M'ba chose Omar Bongo to succeed, and then led the country for almost forty years. Under Bongo's leadership, Gabon's oil reserves enabled its economic growth.   But, accusations of corruption and violations of human rights also emerged throughout this time.

M'ba rule 

2009 saw Omar Bongo die; his son, Ali Bongo Ondimba, assumed leadership. His rule has been defined by both opportunities and difficulties. While Gabon has advanced healthcare and education, political unrest and claims of electoral fraud have persisted.

Bongo rule and PDG 

For more than half a century, the Bongo family has dominated political life in Gabon. Since its independence, the Gabonese Democratic Party (PDG) has been in power. But calls for political reform and more opposition party engagement have grown.

Boycott of elections and crisis 

Several opposition parties boycotted the parliamentary elections in 2016, therefore helping the PDG to win. Many pushing for more openness and democracy drove demonstrations and violence in the nation in response.

Death of Bongo and succession

Ali Bongo missed many months of work after suffering a stroke while in government in 2018. This spurred rumors and anxiety over who might inherit his presidency should he be unable to carry on.

2023 coup d'état 

January 2023 saw a coup d'état in Gabon, whereby a military junta replaced the government. The president at the time, Ali Bongo, was banished from his country.

Politics in Gabon

The president of Gabon is the head of state and government in a presidential republic. The National Assembly is the branch of government designated for legislation. Since gaining independence, one political party—the PDG—has been running Gabon. Still, calls for multi-party democracy and reforms meant to address corruption and human rights issues have been more frequent. General Brice Oligui Nguema was designated as temporary president following the coup d'état in 2023 until a new administration could be constituted. He promised to run free and fair elections and apply changes meant to solve socioeconomic problems and corruption. 

Foreign relations 

Apart from belonging to the United Nations, the African Union, and the Central African Economic and Monetary Community, Gabon keeps close ties to France, her former colonial power. It has aggressively supported regional peacekeeping projects and tight trade ties to countries such as China and the United States.

Military 

With just about 9,000 active troops, Gabon boasts quite a modest military. It is mostly in charge of safeguarding the national boundaries and natural resources. Efforts to modernize and professionalize the Gabonese Armed Forces have lately been undertaken.

Administrative divisions 

There are nine provinces in Gabon, each with local government under a governor. Furthermore, a separate administrative division is the capital city, Libreville. The nation is split up into approximately 250 districts and 50 agencies.

Geography and Economy

Gabon has a mixed terrain: dense rainforests inside and coastal plains on the west. There are several animals present: gorillas, elephants, and hippos. The country's economy mostly relies on its oil reserves since more than 80% of its exports originate from them. Still, there have been initiatives to diversify the economy by means of investments in tourism, agriculture, and other sectors.

Wildlife 

Over 10,000 different varieties of flora and hundreds of animal species call Gabon home. Among many threatened species, the western lowland gorilla and forest elephant find homes in the deep forests. Gabon is among the top birdwatching destinations in Africa.

Demographics 

With a population estimated to be above 2.2 million, Gabon's count is predicted to be increasing at roughly 2% yearly. Most people belong to Bantu ethnic groupings; Fang is the most regularly occurring ethnicity. French is the official language, even if numerous other languages are used in various parts.

Languages 

Apart from French, the most often used languages in Gabon are Fang, Myene, and Nzebi. Government and education also find usage for these languages.

Religion 

Though Roman Catholicism is the most common denomination, most Gabonians follow Christianity.  Especially in immigrant groups from neighboring African nations, there is also a sizable Muslim community.

Education 

With government-provided free elementary and secondary education, Gabon has a high literacy rate—more than eighty percent.  Still, there are difficulties giving every pupil, especially in rural regions, high-quality education.

Health 

With an approximate 65-year life expectancy, Gabon has come a long way in improving healthcare. Still, especially in rural areas, access to sufficient healthcare begs issues.

Music 

Rich in musical heritage, Gabon blends contemporary ideas with old Bantu rhythms. Among the rather popular genres are makossa, soukous, and Afrobeat.

Transport 

Gabon's road system is small, hence, most people get around by air or water. The country boasts several airports and seaports; the past few decades have witnessed projects to improve and expand infrastructure.

Tourism 

Gabon is a possible travel destination because of its natural beauty. These comprise national parks and reserves, beaches, waterfalls, and chances for viewing animals. Still, compared to other African nations, tourism is somewhat undeveloped.

Culture

Modern French influences, as well as traditional rituals, greatly shape Gabonese culture. Standard celebrations and rites covering initiation events for young men and women.

Cuisine 

French and traditional African cuisine shapes Gabon's cuisine. A normal dinner consists of cassava, plantains, and different meats—including bushmeat. A national favorite is Paulet nyembwe, chicken served in a rich palm nut sauce.

Sports 

Football (soccer; the national team has participated in several African Cup of Nations games) is the most often played sport in Gabon. Other rather popular sports include basketball, tennis, and martial arts.