This Friday, January 17, 2025, Maître Lubin Ntoutoume officially took office at the head of the Ministry of Industry, succeeding François Mbongo Rafemo Bourdette. The handover ceremony is part of the ministerial reshuffle initiated by the President of the Transition, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema.
Just a few hours after his swearing in before the President of the Transition, Me Lubin Ntoutoume officially received the files from the Ministry of Industry from the hands of his predecessor François Mbongo Rafemo Bourdette. The latter also recalled the efforts made under his mandate to boost the industrial sector. He highlighted the projects launched to revive local industrialization and attract more investments.
« The mission entrusted to you is exciting and demanding. I had the opportunity to initiate several projects, but much remains to be done. I am convinced that you will be able to meet these challenges brilliantly. “, he declared, addressing his successor.
For his part, Maître Lubin Ntoutoume affirmed his desire to continue the ongoing reforms and meet the expectations of the sector. “ The project is vast, and the work must continue. I am committed to finalizing current projects, bringing my vision and accelerating the transformation of our local resources. I am also counting on the experience of those who preceded me to move forward as quickly as possible. “, he assured.
Priorities to revive the sector
In the process, the new minister identified several strategic priorities, including the modernization of industrial infrastructure; local processing of raw materials, notably wood and manganese, and the creation of sustainable jobs in the industrial sector.
-These areas are part of the authorities’ desire to diversify the Gabonese economy and reduce dependence on exports of unprocessed raw materials.
Who is Master Lubin Ntoutoume?
Maître Lubin Ntoutoume, renowned lawyer and former president of the Gabonese Bar Association, is recognized for his legal expertise and his commitment to reforms. His experience in negotiation and management will be a valuable asset in steering the Ministry of Industry through a demanding transition period.
With this appointment, the government intends to accelerate industrial recovery and meet the expectations of the Gabonese in terms of job creation and development of local resources.