Chinese firm targets Gabon’s banio potash project for expansion

The Nyanga Province in Gabon remains a magnet for global investors due to its vast mining potential. In a pivotal meeting on July 17, Vice-President of the government Hermann Immongault convened key ministers—Transport, Universal Access to Water and Energy, Mines, Industry, and Environment—alongside executives from China’s Hui Neng Group. The central focus was the Banio potash deposit, hailed as one of southern Gabon’s most promising mining ventures.

Hui Neng Group, already operational in Laos and Sierra Leone, is eyeing Gabon for expansion. Vice-President Li Yongzhen engaged with officials to explore government strategies, support mechanisms, and collaborative prospects tied to the Banio project. Specializing in energy, thermal chemistry, and potash, the Chinese conglomerate positions itself as a leading industrial partner. “We’re advancing an investment initiative in Gabon and aim to align with the government’s vision while assessing the conditions for developing the Banio project,” Li stated after the discussions.

infrastructure for industrial growth

Government representatives outlined major structural initiatives to bolster Nyanga’s mining sector. A highlight is the planned deep-water port in Mayumba, under negotiation with Abu Dhabi Group, designed to streamline exports of potash, iron, marble, and other minerals. Energy-wise, authorities unveiled a roadmap to escalate national production from 16.5 megawatts today to over 2,100 megawatts by 2030, ensuring robust support for future industrial ventures.

Li Yongzhen expressed satisfaction with the government’s proposals. Next steps include on-site visits, infrastructure evaluations, and technical assessments of the project, in partnership with relevant agencies. Hermann Immongault commended Hui Neng Group’s interest, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to attracting value-driven investments that diversify the economy, enhance energy sovereignty, and prioritize local resource processing. “Every initiative will be executed in Gabon, adhering to environmental standards,” he emphasized.