The Gabonese government and the Société d’Exploitation du Transgabonais (Setrag) have taken a new step in modernizing the country’s main railway. The signing of Convention No. 4 formalizes the mutual commitments of both parties to enhance the safety, efficiency, and capacity of the Transgabonais, the backbone of freight and passenger transport between Libreville and Franceville.
A Renewed Commitment to Railway Modernization
With this new convention, the Gabonese State, through the Ministry of Transport and Merchant Marine, and Setrag, a subsidiary of the mining group Eramet, aim to accelerate investments under the Track Modernization and Security Program (PMS). This essential program is focused on preserving the Transgabonais by rehabilitating aging infrastructure and improving services for users.
In November 2024, the European Union granted Gabon a €30 million subsidy for the modernization of the Transgabonais as part of the “Global Gateway” initiative, which aims to strengthen global infrastructure. This funding seeks to improve connectivity and stimulate regional economic development.
Priority projects include the renovation of eight engineering structures, the enhancement of transport capacity, the acquisition of new trainsets and track maintenance vehicles, and the modernization of stations and railway facilities.
“This partnership demonstrates the government’s commitment to ensuring a high-performing and secure railway service for the benefit of users and economic stakeholders who rely on the Transgabonais,” stated Roger Nzue Ondo, Executive Secretary of the Railway Transport Regulatory Authority (ARTF), during the signing ceremony.
Towards a More Efficient Railway Network
The signing of this convention comes at a time of increasing demand for railway transport, both for passengers and goods. Modernizing the Transgabonais is crucial to meeting the growing needs of the mining, forestry, and agri-food industries, which use this infrastructure as a competitiveness lever.
This project, initiated under the mandate of Dieudonné Loïc NDINGA MOUDOUMA, was finalized by Jonathan IGNOUMBA, the current Minister of Transport and Merchant Marine. The continuity of governmental action reflects the trust of international partners, particularly the European Union, in Gabon’s ability to successfully implement structural projects and ensure the sustainable development of its railway network.
Through this new agreement, Setrag reaffirms its role as the concessionaire responsible for implementing necessary investments in rolling stock and infrastructure renewal. Meanwhile, the Gabonese government ensures a stable regulatory framework conducive to the expansion of railway transport.
“We are continuing our efforts to modernize the Transgabonais and guarantee a reliable, secure, and high-performance transport service, in line with Gabon’s economic ambitions,” affirmed a Setrag executive.
Opening to New Investors
Another key aspect of this convention is the opening of Setrag’s capital to other economic operators. In accordance with Law No. 032, this measure aims to diversify funding sources while preserving the investments made by the railway company.
This new approach to railway governance could attract new players, further revitalizing the sector. It aligns with the government’s strategy to attract more private investments into the country’s strategic infrastructure.
A Pivotal Moment for the Transgabonais
With Convention No. 4, Gabon reaffirms its commitment to modernizing its railway network to make it a driver of economic and social development. From infrastructure renovation and enhanced transport capacity to opening up to new investors, this strengthened partnership between the State and Setrag represents a major step forward for the future of the Transgabonais.
As work intensifies in the coming months, users and economic operators are eager to see these commitments materialize, ensuring a more reliable and efficient railway transport system for Gabon.
