Key Facts
- GDP (ppp) per CAPITA
- $14,200 (2008 est.)
- Inflation Rate
- 5.3% (2008 est.)
- Population
- 1,514,993 (July 2009 est.)
- Country Risk Ratings
- B
- Ease of Doing Business
- 151/181
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Gabon : Introduction
Until recently, only two autocratic presidents had ruled Gabon since its independence from France in 1960. The recent president of Gabon, El Hadj Omar Bongo Ondimba -one of the longest-serving heads of state in the world - had dominated the country's political scene for four decades. President Bongo introduced a nominal multiparty system and a new constitution in the early 1990s. However, allegations of electoral fraud during local elections in 2002-03 and the presidential elections in 2005 exposed the weaknesses of formal political structures in Gabon. President Bongo died in June 2009 and was replaced in accordance with the constitution by Rose Francine Rogombe, the president of the Senate. New elections are planned for the summer of 2009. This will be the first Gabonese elections in which Bongo is not participating. Despite political conditions, a small population, abundant natural resources, and considerable foreign support have helped make Gabon one of the more prosperous and stable African countries.
- Gabon: Gaboneco.com Online News
This site is devoted to providing information about current events in Gabon. Topics range from sports to politics. Only available in French.
- Gabon: National Assembly of Gabon
This is an official government website providing information about the governing body of Gabon. Topics covered include international relations, current legislation, and recent publications.
- Gabon: Official Government Website
This site is a great resource for information about the culture, history, geography and current government administration. There is also a section devoted to investing in Gabon. The site is offered in both English and French.
Sources:
CIA World Factbook (September 2009)
U.S. Dept. of State Country Background Notes (July 2009)
