Gabon has awarded a concession to build a new ferry terminal in its capital, Libreville, in a bid to modernise domestic maritime transport, improve safety, and support reforms of the country’s struggling ferry sector, the Transport Ministry said on Wednesday.
The project will be developed by the Gabonese ports authority, OPRAG, in partnership with private operator AOM GLOBAL. Under the terms of the agreement, the private partner will be responsible for designing, financing, constructing, and operating the terminal, with construction expected to take approximately 24 months.
Ferry services have long been a critical mode of domestic transport in Gabon, particularly on the busy Libreville–Port-Gentil route, which connects the country’s economic hub with its largest industrial centre. Road infrastructure remains limited, and travel by ferry is often faster, safer, and more practical for passengers and freight alike. The new terminal is intended to ease congestion, improve service reliability, and raise safety standards, which have been a concern in recent years due to ageing facilities and operational disruptions.
The initiative is part of a wider government strategy to modernise the country’s maritime infrastructure. Authorities said the terminal will support the long-term development of Gabon’s domestic shipping sector and encourage private sector investment. By creating a modern hub for ferry services, the government hopes to enhance passenger experience, reduce travel delays, and foster economic activity connected to maritime transport.
The concession also complements ongoing reforms of the National Inland and International Navigation Company (CNNII), Gabon’s state-owned ferry operator. CNNII has faced recurring operational problems, including service suspensions and maintenance challenges, which have affected passenger confidence. The government plans to revitalise the operator, including renewing the ferry fleet, enhancing management systems, and improving operational efficiency.
Officials said the new terminal will serve as a cornerstone of these reforms, providing a modern infrastructure base that will allow CNNII to operate more reliably and safely. By linking investment in physical infrastructure with institutional and operational improvements, authorities aim to strengthen Gabon’s domestic maritime network and ensure the sector’s long-term sustainability.
The project also reflects Gabon’s broader commitment to integrating private sector expertise into public infrastructure. By assigning design, financing, and operational responsibilities to AOM GLOBAL, the government aims to leverage international experience in port management and maritime services while reducing the financial burden on public resources.
Experts say that modernising the ferry sector is critical for Gabon’s economic development, given the country’s geography and transport needs. With major urban centres and industrial zones connected primarily by coastal routes and limited road networks, reliable maritime transport is essential for the movement of people, goods, and raw materials. Improved ferry operations can also support trade, tourism, and regional connectivity.
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Authorities have emphasised that safety will be a central priority. The new terminal is expected to meet international standards for passenger handling, vessel operations, and emergency response. In addition to the terminal itself, upgrades to navigation systems, docking infrastructure, and maintenance facilities are planned to ensure safer, more efficient operations.
Construction is expected to take two years, with operations projected to begin shortly after completion. Government officials said the concession model will allow for long-term maintenance and management of the terminal, ensuring that it remains a reliable component of Gabon’s transport network.
By modernising infrastructure, improving management, and enhancing safety, Gabon aims to revitalise domestic ferry services, support economic growth, and provide a more efficient, secure, and reliable transport option for citizens and businesses alike.
Henoc Dossa, reporting from Libreville.
