Gabon

This country of just 2.3 million people, half of whom are under 20, benefits from an abundance of natural resources and a strategic location on the Atlantic Ocean. Under the nearly six-decade rule of the Bongo family, the country had undertaken reforms to diversify its economy away from oil dependence and promote foreign investment in infrastructure, ecotourism and mining, among other sectors. However, a military coup took place in 2023, throwing the nation into uncertainty.

Still, the country continues to boast several strengths. In addition to oil, Gabon is a top global producer of manganese and has mining potential in uranium, diamonds, gold, copper, and rare earth metals. Currently, however, Gabon’s economy remains under-diversified, and its business environment is challenging. Weaknesses include high production costs linked to inadequate infrastructure and electricity supply, dependence on imports of food and other goods, high unemployment, and widespread poverty. Furthermore, investment remains stymied by corruption and a lack of transparency.