The province of Moyen-Ogooué, which covers an area of 18,535 km² and is home to around 80,000 people, is a land of contrasts, where exuberant nature and a rich cultural heritage sit side by side with significant socio-economic challenges. Crossed by the majestic River Ogooué that gives it its name, this province boasts significant natural, economic and cultural assets, while at the same time facing major challenges to its development.
With its 18,535 km² and 76,900 inhabitants (representing 6.9% of Gabon’s population), Moyen-Ogooué stands out for its natural and cultural wealth. A true sanctuary of biodiversity, the province offers magnificent landscapes thanks to its dense equatorial forest, winding rivers and peaceful lakes, a major asset for the promising development of ecotourism. The River Ogooué, essential to local life, transport and fishing, flows through the province. History and culture are also pillars of Moyen-Ogooué, with its capital, Lambaréné, famous for its rich intangible heritage derived from the diversity of its ethnic groups and the Albert Schweitzer Hospital.
‘Moyen-Ogooué is the third province in the centre of Gabon, where the Equator crosses. It’s called G3. And G3 is divided into two departments, the first of which is Bangamié, whose capital is Ndjolé. The second department is that of Ogooué et les lacs, whose capital is Longargnie, the provincial capital, commonly known as the town of Albert Schweitzer’s Great White, to name but one.
TSONGA MARTIAL, JOURNALIST – GABON
The visual identity of Moyen-Ogooué is reflected in its emblem, which is divided into three distinct sections. One evokes the richness of its forest, another symbolises the River Ogooué in an undulating blue line, and the last represents the region’s three main lakes in three blue circles. Situated at the crossroads of the main road and river routes leading to the country’s eight other provinces, Moyen-Ogooué, which was once booming and is still booming today, is destined for great development.
‘It has to be said that the province of Moyen-Ogooué exploits timber, Okoumé in general, and other trades that are transported by road or river. There is also gold mining near Ndjolé, not forgetting palm oil. As a result, this province is brimming with significant economic assets.
TSONGA MARTIAL, JOURNALIST – GABON
However, the Moyen-Ogooué region faces major challenges that are holding back its development. The state of the infrastructure, particularly the road network, which is often rundown and underdeveloped, hinders the movement of goods and people, limiting access to markets and basic services. Access to electricity and drinking water remains a major challenge, particularly in rural areas.
