Gabon's green financing may bolster Bongo

Significance

He has emerged as one of Africa’s leaders in the fight against climate change and is president of the African Group of Climate Negotiators. This occurs in a context in which he has in effect either co-opted or suppressed organised opposition to his rule.

Impacts

• Bongo's health problems may complicate his plans.
• Gabon's longer-term growth and debt outlook will improve.
• Gabon's new Commonwealth membership may facilitate economic diversification efforts.