From March 22nd to 28th, 2025, a Gabonese delegation traveled to India for a prospecting mission with Tata Motors. The objective of this mission was the acquisition of 130 buses intended to strengthen the fleet of the Gabonese Transport Company (SOGATRA). This initiative, led under the instructions of Mr. Jonathan Ignoumba, Minister of Transport and Merchant Marine, reflects the vision of the President of the Transition, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, who aspires to modernize and revive the public transport sector in Gabon.
A Strategic Approach to Revitalize SOGATRA
The delegation was composed of Mrs. Yeno Ndaka Yi Djako Marlyse née Nguema Obiang, communications advisor to the Minister of Transport and Merchant Marine, Mr. Florent Bakita, CEO of SOGATRA, and Mr. Éric Hamede Mbadinga, Director of Operations at SOGATRA. Their stay was coordinated with the support of Mr. Vasu, representative of the Panafrique company, thus facilitating discussions and a thorough understanding of Tata bus manufacturing processes.
Vehicles Adapted to Gabon’s Needs
Tata buses are distinguished by their robustness and reliability, essential qualities to face the challenges of Gabonese roads. Designed with carefully selected materials, these vehicles guarantee increased durability and consistent performance, even in demanding road conditions.
Recognized Expertise in Africa
Tata Motors, a major player in the automotive sector, has demonstrated its expertise across the African continent. In Côte d’Ivoire, the Abidjan Transport Company (SOTRA) already uses Tata buses to improve its operations. This reliability has also convinced other Central African countries, such as Congo, to integrate these vehicles into their fleets.
An Economic and Social Lever
Beyond the improvement of public transport, this acquisition represents a major economic and social opportunity for SOGATRA. The arrival of these 130 buses will not only optimize the services offered to the population but also preserve more than 1,000 jobs, thus giving a new lease of life to the company and its staff.
Tata Motors: A Validated Partnership Rich in CSR
In an objective report issued at the end of the mission, the members of the Gabonese delegation expressed a favorable opinion for this strategic partnership with Tata Motors. This choice is also motivated by the multinational’s commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR), particularly in the field of education. Tata Motors dedicates 67% of its profits to educational initiatives, thus placing polytechnic training as a priority. This approach could pave the way for the creation of an assembly plant in Gabon, an ambitious project that would strengthen local industrial capacity.
An Immersion in the Heart of the Manufacturing Process
During their visit, the Gabonese delegation was able to discover each stage of the Tata bus manufacturing process, from the laying of the chassis to the water jet test, an impressive demonstration testifying to the robustness and reliability of the vehicles.
A New Era for SOGATRA
This initiative marks a decisive turning point for SOGATRA. Driven by the strategic vision of President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema and supported by the commitment of the Ministry of Transport, the acquisition of these buses symbolizes an important step towards sustainable modernization and accessible and efficient public transport for the Gabonese population.
