Gabon minister inspects resettlement site after demolitions
Minister Millot Lambert Mouvinde visited Malibé 2, a 15-hectare site for families displaced by urban modernization projects.
Gabon's Minister of Public Works and Construction, Millot Lambert Mouvinde, inspected the Malibé 2 resettlement site on November 6. The 15-hectare area is designated to house families displaced by demolitions that began on November 4 in Okala, Lac Bleu, and Diba-Diba as part of the Grand-Libreville modernization. Mouvinde's visit aimed to assess progress and reassure affected residents.
On site, the minister reviewed the preparation of the Malibé 2 area, which is intended to accommodate households affected by the clearing of land for new roads. "With reinforced logistics, teams are accelerating operations and working to prepare the zone to allow our compatriots to be relocated with dignity," Mouvinde stated, emphasizing adherence to deadlines for road projects. He also discussed the importance of the projects for improving urban mobility and access to strategic infrastructure.
The urban renewal operation, launched by Vice-President Hermann Immongault, has raised concerns among residents who seek more than just housing. They are requesting essential services like roads, clean water, electricity, schools, health centers, and economic opportunities. The government's approach at Malibé 2 seeks to balance land acquisition, resettlement, and urban development for social acceptance.
Why it mattersGabon residents displaced by urban development projects face uncertainty regarding their relocation and the provision of essential services.