Gabon president visits Shanghai robot valley
Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema seeks to position Gabon in global tech revolution by integrating AI and robotics.
Gabon's President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema visited the Zhangjiang Robot Valley in Shanghai on November 4, 2026, expressing a desire for the nation to actively participate in the global technological revolution. He aims to integrate artificial intelligence into public services and promote robotization, ensuring Gabon is part of this transformation rather than a passive observer.
During his visit, President Oligui Nguema observed robots performing surgical procedures, patient rehabilitation, and managing industrial operations, noting that this is current reality, not science fiction. He emphasized the urgency of preparing young Gabonese for these emerging technologies, stating, "Gabon will not watch this revolution from afar."
Gabon is already taking steps toward digital transformation, including the completion of preparatory work for its first national Artificial Intelligence Strategy on September 30, supported by the UNDP. The country also inaugurated its first national Data Center in Nkok on July 3, 2026, a Tier III certified facility designed to host and secure strategic data within the nation.
Why it mattersPresident Oligui Nguema's visit and stated ambitions aim to equip Gabon's youth and public services with AI and robotics, positioning the nation for future technological development.