Gabon Roundup: LGBTQ issues, hydrocarbon storage, allocation of vehicles

Opposition against blessing of homosexual couples

Pope Francis' recent call for the blessing of homosexual couples, made on December 18, has faced strong opposition from the Episcopal Conference's Doctrine Commission in Gabon. Gabon bishops rejected the Pope's wish altogether, indicating that in Gabon, the Committee for the Transition and Restoration of Institutions has already prohibited same-sex couples, rendering the possibility of blessing them null, local media Infos Gabon reported. The President of the Commission, Bishop Mathieu said a declaration from the Vatican creates some confusion and undermines the credibility of the church.

Hydrocarbon storage

The military-led transitional government, under the leadership of General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, has announced the creation of a special unit dedicated to enhancing security and control within the country's oil terminals. The unit, established to safeguard the nation's economic interests, will focus on four key missions, including rigorous supervision of oil logistics for optimal use of hydrocarbon resources and strengthening security at oil terminals to ensure national security, local media Gabon Review reported

Importation of used vehicles

The government of Gabon has announced an extension of the permitted age for used motor vehicles imported into the country from 8 to 10 years. This decision means that individuals can now bring vehicles to Gabon with construction ages ranging from 0 to 10 years. The move aligns Gabon with the average vehicle import regulations in neighboring countries in the sub-region, as reported by local media Top Infos Gabon

Allocation of vehicles

The President of the Transition, General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, handed over ten vehicles to administrative staff and religious figures in the province of Ogooué Maritime. This allocation follows discussions between the President and the local population during his visit to the economic capital on December 6 and 7, local media Gabonews reported. The President announced support measures for the equal development of provinces and improved working conditions.

Awep Gabon Association

A delegation of ten Gabonese women, representing the Awep Gabon Association, recently concluded a twelve-day training program in the United States, titled "Women's Entrepreneurship in American Markets: A Project for Gabon." The program was sponsored by American Department of State, and aimed at enhancing leadership and empowering women entrepreneurs for access to the American market, as reported by local media agency Sonapresse.