The African Union (AU) has lifted sanctions imposed on Gabon, the continental body announced on Wednesday, following what it described as significant progress in the country’s political transition.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), the AU’s Political Affairs, Peace and Security Department said the Peace and Security Council had reviewed developments in Gabon and found the transition process to be “generally successful.”
As a result, Gabon is now permitted “to immediately resume her participation in the activities” of the AU, the statement said.
Gabon was suspended from the AU in August 2023 after a military coup led by General Brice Oligui Nguema ousted President Ali Bongo, whose family had ruled the country for more than five decades.
Following the coup, Nguema pledged to return the country to civilian governance after a two-year transitional period. In April 2025, he was elected president with 94 percent of the vote under a new constitution that grants the presidency expanded powers.
The AU’s decision to lift the suspension comes months after a diplomatic appeal by Nguema during a visit to Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara, where he sought support for the easing of sanctions.
Despite its oil wealth, Gabon—home to approximately 2.3 million people continue to grapple with high unemployment, frequent power and water shortages, and mounting public debt.
