Gabonese President Brice Oligui Nguema and African Development Bank's (AfDB) Akinwumi Adesina Inaugurate Water Pumping Station for Greater Libreville
'Ten years without clean water: erased! Ten years without hope: forgotten! Ten years of suffering: over!'—Adesina to residents of Libreville's outlying neighborhoods.
Adesina Receives Gabon's Highest Civilian Honor
Gabonese President Brice Oligui Nguema and African Development Bank Group President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina (www.AfDB.org) on Monday jointly inaugurated a new drinking water pumping station, marking the end of a decade-long water crisis in PK5, a densely populated district of Libreville.
The new PK5 pumping station, with a daily capacity of 57,600 cubic meters, is designed to deliver clean water to 128,000 residents across seven northern districts of the capital.
'These past few weeks, we've finally felt like citizens of real capital. Water is flowing from our taps at last,' said Sandrine Onanga, a 33-year-old mother living in PK5. 'It has been eight years since we last saw a drop of water. We had even forgotten what a tap looked like,' added Astrid Momboukou, who joined the crowd to witness the inauguration of the facility.
For years, taps had run dry in parts of Libreville. 'That's all behind us now. No more lugging water jugs for kilometers. No more waiting late into the night for police tankers to deliver water every two or three days,' said Sandrine, smiling under the light rain that fell over Libreville that Monday.
The new station was inaugurated in the presence of senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, development partners, and an enthusiastic local population. It forms part of the Integrated Drinking Water Supply and Sanitation Program for Libreville (PAIEPAL). The program, with a total investment of €117.4 million, is financed through a €75.4 million loan from the African Development Bank and a €42 million loan from the Africa Growing Together Fund (AGTF), backed by the People's Bank of China and administered by the Bank.
The program aims to improve access to potable water and sanitation services in Libreville, strengthen sector governance, and build capacity for long-term transformation.
The initiative ensures that more than 300,000 people—approximately 31% of Libreville's 967,095 residents—now have sustainable and permanent access to clean water. The beneficiary communes include Libreville, Akanda, Owendo, and Ntoum.
Adesina emphasized the life-changing impact of the new pumping station: 'Ten years without drinking water: erased! Ten years without hope: forgotten! Ten years of suffering: ended!'
The Bank, a reliable and strategic partner for Gabon
Adesina also highlighted the Bank's unwavering development support for Gabon during his ten-year tenure. 'From 1974 to 2014, the Bank approved $1 billion in financing for Gabon. Since my election in 2015, we have committed an additional $1.5 billion—1.5 times the previous 40-year total,' he said.
According to Philippe Tonangoye, Gabon's Minister for Universal Access to Water and Energy, the project has significantly improved water infrastructure. It involved renewing 150 kilometers of pipelines, upgrading and extending another 150 kilometers of distribution networks, building and rehabilitating multiple water towers, and installing around 60 public standpipes across Libreville and surrounding areas.
'The African Development Bank spared no effort to make this program a reality,' said Minister Tonangoye. 'Some of these installations had not seen a single drop of water in ten years. My gratitude goes to the Bank for its commitment to Gabon.'
President Adesina receives top Gabonese honor
Ahead of the inauguration, Gabonese President Oligui Nguema conferred on Adesina the insignia of Grand Officer of the Order of the Gabonese Merit, one of Gabon's highest civilian honors, in a ceremony witnessed by his wife, Grace Adesina.
Recognized for his visionary leadership, Akinwumi Adesina—dubbed 'Africa's Chief Optimist'—will complete his second and final ten-year term as President of the African Development Bank Group on 31 August. Since 2015, he has led transformative projects across Africa under the Bank's five strategic priorities, the 'High 5s' (https://apo-opa.co/4n9ysad).
Through these priorities, 565 million people have seen their lives transformed. In the water sector alone, 63 million people gained access to clean water and 34 million to sanitation services.
Flagship projects in Gabon
For decades, the Bank has supported Gabon's socioeconomic development by helping diversify strategic sectors. It is now Gabon's leading infrastructure partner.
Among flagship projects, the Bank financed the New Owendo International Port. With a capacity of four million tonnes per year, this multi-purpose port (minerals, timber, containers) has reduced handling costs by 30% and become a critical link in Gabon's logistics chain. In this context, the Gabonese President took Dr. Adesina on a tour of the La Baie des Rois Special Investment Zone, located 18 km from the port. The maritime façade of the Gabonese capital aims to be modern to attract international real estate investors to revitalize the country's economy and create wealth for the population.
The Bank is also helping Gabon develop the Kinguélé Aval hydroelectric power station—the country's first energy PPP—which will add 40 megawatts of reliable, affordable, and clean energy. It is also financing the Ndende-Doussala road, a key segment of the Libreville-Brazzaville corridor that will connect Gabon and Congo and boost regional integration.
With an active portfolio of $61.26 million, the African Development Bank Group's strategy in Gabon focuses on two priority areas: supporting the development of sustainable infrastructure to drive industrialization, and strengthening economic governance and the business climate to promote social inclusion.
Following the inauguration, President Oligui Nguema and Akinwumi Adesina visited two families in separate districts that were once severely impacted by water shortages. They also toured the National School for Hearing-Impaired Children, which serves hundreds of students. Since gaining access to clean drinking water, the school has seen a significant improvement in hygiene conditions.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
Dr. Adesina's speech (French) (https://apo-opa.co/3FMhbmO)
Pictures (https://apo-opa.co/4n5syH0)
Contact:
Romaric Ollo Hien
Communication and External Relations Department
media@afdb.org
About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) is Africa's premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 44 African countries with an external office in Japan, the AfDB contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states.
For more information: www.AfDB.org
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Zawya
2 hours ago
- Zawya
From Discovery to Delivery: Building a Legal Framework for Namibia's Midstream Infrastructure (by Rachel Mushabati)
By Rachel Mushabati, Senior Associate Attorney&Country Head – CLG Namibia ( Namibia's recent offshore oil discoveries mark a pivotal moment in the country's energy sector. With major players such as Shell, TotalEnergies, QatarEnergy, and Galp uncovering significant reserves, Namibia is poised to become a key oil producer. However, while exploration and production activities have gained momentum, the midstream sector; involving transportation, storage, and refining of petroleum, remains underdeveloped. A strong legal framework for midstream infrastructure is essential to ensure that Namibia maximizes economic benefits, attracts investment, and builds a sustainable energy industry. CLG Legal and Business Advisory, with its extensive advisory experience across Africa, is uniquely positioned to support this transition. CLG has advised on midstream regulatory frameworks, infrastructure structuring, and investment promotion strategies in various jurisdictions, and brings this expertise to the Namibian context. Understanding Midstream Infrastructure and Its Importance Midstream infrastructure serves as the critical link between oil extraction and the end consumer. This includes pipelines, refineries, storage facilities, and specialized port infrastructure that facilitate the transportation of crude oil and natural gas. Without adequate midstream infrastructure, Namibia risks becoming an exporter of raw crude without capturing additional value through processing and distribution. A robust midstream sector can boost job creation, industrial development, and energy security, making it a strategic national priority. Market studies from other African producers have shown that well-developed midstream infrastructure can contribute up to 30% more in local value addition compared to direct crude exports.[1] In Ghana, for instance, domestic refining and pipeline infrastructure contributed significantly to its GDP growth in the petroleum sector between 2016–2022. Namibia has the opportunity to tap into similar economic potential.[2] Existing Legal Framework and Gaps Namibia's petroleum sector is primarily governed by the Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Act 2 of 1991 and the Petroleum Products and Energy Act 13 of 1990. These laws focus largely on upstream activities and the regulation of downstream petroleum products. However, there is no dedicated midstream regulatory framework. The absence of clear midstream regulations means there is little guidance on ownership structures, investment incentives, and operational guidelines for pipelines, storage, and refining facilities. For example, Nigeria's midstream sector prior to the Petroleum Industry Act (2021) faced significant bottlenecks due to the absence of a clear regulatory framework, particularly regarding third-party access and tariff setting for pipeline infrastructure. These issues led to investor reluctance and underinvestment, which were only addressed after the establishment of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (Nigeria Petroleum Industry Act, 2021). Lessons from Other Oil-Producing Countries Namibia can draw inspiration from countries that have successfully developed midstream infrastructure through effective regulation. Norway, for example, has established a robust midstream legal framework that ensures state participation in pipelines and refineries while promoting private investment.[3] Ghana has a dedicated Petroleum Midstream Regulatory Authority that oversees infrastructure development and ensures compliance with environmental and safety standards. Similarly, Nigeria's Petroleum Industry Act (2021) introduced the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, which provides clear guidelines on pipeline ownership and operations. The Role of Key Stakeholders in Strengthening Namibia's Legal Framework To unlock the full potential of the midstream sector, coordinated action is required among various stakeholders: Government Ministries and Regulators: Responsible for drafting legislation, setting environmental and safety standards, and issuing licenses. Private Sector and Investors: Bring in capital and technical expertise, while also needing legal certainty to invest confidently. State-Owned Entities: Can serve as infrastructure operators and strategic partners in public-private partnerships. Civil Society and Communities: Essential for ensuring environmental accountability and social license to operate. Legal Advisory Firms: Provide technical assistance in drafting laws, structuring transactions, and navigating policy reform. Strengthening Namibia's Midstream Legal Framework To address the existing gaps, Namibia must develop a comprehensive legal framework that clearly defines the governance of midstream activities. A dedicated Midstream Act would be a crucial first step, providing legal certainty on pipeline infrastructure, refineries, storage, and transportation. Encouraging public-private partnerships can drive midstream development while ensuring local participation. Establishing an independent regulatory authority will help enhance transparency, streamline approvals, and enforce compliance. Additionally, Namibia should implement policies that prioritize local employment and skills transfer, ensuring that midstream investors contribute to national workforce development. Environmental and safety standards must also be strengthened to mitigate risks associated with pipeline integrity, spill prevention, and emergency response. To further attract investors, tax breaks, duty exemptions, and streamlined licensing processes should be introduced to make Namibia a more competitive destination for midstream infrastructure development. Conclusion For Namibia to fully capitalize on its oil discoveries, it must establish a strong midstream legal framework that facilitates the efficient transportation, storage, and processing of petroleum resources. Without this, the country risks losing significant economic value and remaining dependent on crude exports. By adopting best practices from other oil-producing nations and implementing strategic legal reforms, Namibia can create a thriving midstream sector that benefits both investors and citizens alike. CLG stands ready to support this transformation, leveraging its pan-African expertise in midstream regulation, infrastructure development, and legal advisory. Our team has been instrumental in shaping midstream legal regimes across West and Central Africa, and we are committed to helping Namibia build a regulatory foundation that supports sustainable growth and long-term prosperity. [1] Ruben, R., Kuijpers, R.,&Dijkxhoorn, Y. (2022). Mobilizing the Midstream for Supporting Smallholder Intensification. Land, 11 (12), 2319. [2] Oxford Business Group. 'Ghana's energy production targets and exploration attract investment'. Retrieved from [3] Norwegian Petroleum Directorate (2021). 'Midstream Regulatory Framework and Investment Guidelines'. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of CLG.
Zawya
4 hours ago
- Zawya
African and Caribbean leaders to headline Afreximbank's 32nd Annual Meetings in Abuja, Nigeria
The 32nd Annual Meetings (AAM2025) of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) ( will bring together an influential coalition of global, African and CARICOM leaders in Abuja, Nigeria from 25–27 June 2025. This high-level forum will focus on advancing trade, investment, and innovation across the continent, with Heads of State, Prime Ministers, top business executives, academics and acclaimed academics confirmed to speak. H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria; former Nigerian President H.E. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and H.E. Ambassador Albert Muchanga, African Union Commissioner for Economic Development, Tourism, Trade, Industry&Mining, are among the confirmed dignitaries. They will be joined by ministers, central bank governors, investors, and industry leaders from Africa, the Caribbean, and beyond. Held under the theme 'Building the Future on Decades of Resilience', AAM2025 will focus on accelerating trade opportunities, driving investment and fostering innovation. Professor Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, remarked: 'AAM2025 comes at a pivotal time for Africa. As the continent confronts global uncertainties, it is doing so with renewed resolve. Following the successful 31st edition of AAM held in The Bahamas last year, we are back on the African continent for this year's meetings which are about catalysing practical action—building stronger institutions to strengthen trade integration and unlocking the full potential of African innovation. We thank H.E Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for his support.' The speaker lineup includes renowned economists and industry leaders including Professor Jeffrey Sachs, Director, Centre for Sustainable Development, Columbia University and Dr. Kishore Mahbubani, Distinguished Fellow, Asia Research Institute, National University of Singapore. Africa's foremost business innovation leaders such as Mr. Aliko Dangote, President&CEO of Dangote Group and Mr. Tony Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings, will also participate. The speaker lineup further includes Professor Ghulam Mufti of King's College London, former Prime Minister of Jamaica P.J. Patterson, and other influential figures. Afreximbank's 32nd Annual Meetings (AAM2025) in Abuja are expected to deliver strong economic benefits, both in the short and long term. The main anticipated impacts include the trade and investment mobilisation, policy and institutional advancement and strengthening South-South cooperation and trade flows. AAM2025 is expected to facilitate significant trade and investment deals, including Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and public-private partnerships. The meetings are expected to catalyse billions of dollars in funding over the next 5–10 years for key strategic sectors. By bringing together heads of state, ministers, leaders of trade institutions, policymakers and the private sector, the meetings will advance regional dialogue on several priorities: implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), enhancing cross-border payment systems to speed up regional transactions, strengthening Africa–Caribbean (CARICOM) economic ties through expanded trade, tourism, and joint ventures, and ensuring private sector participation in policy reforms. These discussions aim to reduce business costs, improve trade infrastructure, and deepen regional economic integration. With world-renowned economists, scholars, and entrepreneurs participating, AAM2025 will shape thought leadership on Africa's development path. Platforms like this influence policy, shift narratives, and inspire reforms that foster innovation, inclusion, and competitiveness. This year's meetings will also mark the launch of several new initiatives. AAM2025 is expected to welcome thousands of participants and media from more than 80 countries. A full programme of events and speakers is available on Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank. Follow us on: Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Instagram About Afreximbank: African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa's trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank's total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody's (Baa1), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB-). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, "the Group"). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.
Zawya
4 hours ago
- Zawya
Call for Entries: Africa Property Investment Awards 2025 Submit Your Applications by 30 June!
The countdown is on for the prestigious 9th Africa Property Investment (API) Awards 2025, part of the highly anticipated API Summit themed 'Growth Through Adventure' taking place on 18 and 19 September 2025 at The Westin Hotel, Cape Town. The deadline for submissions has been extended to 30 June 2025, giving developers, consultants, suppliers, professional teams, and property owners across Africa an exciting opportunity to showcase their excellence in the continent's dynamic real estate sector. Why enter the API Awards? The API Awards are the continent's definitive recognition platform celebrating outstanding achievements in African real estate. Open to a wide range of participants —from developers and consultants to suppliers and property owners— the awards highlight innovation, sustainability, and impactful growth in the industry. Judged by a distinguished panel of over 20 industry experts and thought leaders, the awards ensure impartiality and credibility, making being named a finalist or winner a coveted accolade that significantly boosts brand exposure and credibility. This year, the judges will evaluate submissions across three key categories: Development; Personnel; Service, Technology, and Innovation. These categories reflect the multifaceted nature of the real estate ecosystem. Spotlight on 2024 winners: Success stories that inspire The impact of winning an API Award is profound and far-reaching. Last year's winners have not only gained industry recognition but have leveraged their awards to accelerate growth, attract investment, and amplify their influence across Africa's property landscape. AlleyRoads: Best Affordable Housing Development 2024 AlleyRoads, a South Africa-based developer, won the Best Affordable Housing Development award for their innovative Inkanyezi Village project in Katlehong, Gauteng. Ivan Pretorius, Founder and CEO of AlleyRoads, shared how the award has been transformative: 'Winning the Best Affordable Housing Development award has highlighted that AlleyRoads plays an important and instrumental role in affordable housing development across South Africa. It has attracted select investors to invest in our group and demonstrated our dedication to improving all aspects of affordable housing.' Pretorius also emphasized the broader social impact of the Inkanyezi Village project that was recognised by the API Awards. Inkanyezi Village in Katlehong boasts 378 apartments that cater to lower-to-middle income households. The apartments are powered by solar panels and a battery system, ensuring supply of electricity even during load-shedding. 'The award raised significant awareness about affordable housing in Katlehong, particularly the innovative use of off-grid power systems. Traditionally a feature of high-end residential projects, off-grid power solutions designed for affordability have improved quality of life in the lower end of the affordable housing market,' says Pretorius. This recognition has not only enhanced AlleyRoads' reputation but also underscored the potential for sustainable, affordable housing solutions across the continent. REdimension Capital: Dealmakers of the Year 2024 REdimension Capital, led by Peter Clark and Matt Marshall, was honoured as Dealmakers of the Year for their outstanding deal-making prowess in the South African property investment market. REdimension Capital is a South Africa based investment firm that funds early-stage technology companies improving real estate through innovation and sustainability. The API accolade has had a tangible impact on REdimension Capital. Says Clark and Marshall: 'Receiving the Dealmakers of the Year award was a meaningful milestone recognizing the significant work we have undertaken. It has enhanced our visibility and credibility within the property and venture investment ecosystem, reinforcing our position as a trusted partner for real estate stakeholders and technology founders.' The pair says the award has also opened new doors for REdimension Capital, helping the company with its capital-raising efforts and expansion of strategic networks. 'Since receiving the award, we have executed additional deals, deepened our pipeline, and been able to provide credible support for our portfolio companies as they add scale. It has also helped strengthen our position as a leader in driving innovation in the built environment—something we are deeply committed to as we continue to bridge the gap between traditional real estate and the next generation of technology-enabled solutions.' Submit Your Entry Today – Deadline Extended to 30 June 2025 The API Awards 2025 are your platform to showcase excellence and innovation in African real estate. Whether you are a developer pushing boundaries in sustainable housing, a consultant delivering cutting-edge solutions, or a supplier enabling transformative projects, your achievements deserve to be celebrated on the continent's biggest stage. Don't miss this chance to join the ranks of Africa's most respected property leaders. Visit the official API Summit Awards page for detailed criteria and submission guidelines: The API Summit is Africa's premier real estate investment event, bringing together industry leaders, investors, government officials, and innovators to explore opportunities and challenges shaping the continent's property market. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of API Events. Distributed for API Events by Dmix: API Events Murray Anderson-Ogle Email: Murray@ Contact: +27 71 890 77 39 Social Media: Website: Facebook: Instagram: @ APIsummit LinkedIn: API Events
