Gabon flag

Gabon

Gabonese Republic

Capital

Libreville

Region

Africa

Population

2,469,296

Area (km²)

267,668

💡Quick Summary

Gabon, a Central African nation with a population of about 2.5 million, spans 267,668 km² of lush rainforests and coastline, making it one of the continent's most biodiverse spots. Its capital, Libreville, serves as the economic hub, though GDP data is currently unavailable amid its oil-dependent economy. Despite its natural wealth, Gabon faces challenges like income inequality and conservation efforts to protect its unique wildlife.

Key Insights

High Access to Electricity

Despite being a developing nation in Middle Africa, Gabon has achieved widespread electrical connectivity, with 94.10% of the population having access to electricity. This high rate is crucial for economic development and quality of life, placing it significantly ahead of many regional neighbors.

Improving Health Outcomes: Lower Infant Mortality

Gabon's Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) of 26.5 per 1,000 live births is relatively low compared to the average for Sub-Saharan Africa (which often exceeds 40). Combined with a life expectancy of 68.34 years, this suggests better than average public health infrastructure, likely supported by its oil wealth.

Exceptional Forest Coverage: The Carbon Sink

Gabon maintains an astonishing 91.182% forest cover, making it a critical global carbon sink and a leader in conservation efforts. This high percentage is a defining characteristic of the country, emphasizing its environmental importance and the challenge of balancing resource extraction with ecological preservation.

A Nation of Cities: Extreme Urbanization

Gabon is one of the most urbanized countries in Africa, with over 91% of its population living in urban areas. This extreme concentration suggests significant internal migration toward economic centers and places immense pressure on urban infrastructure and services, contrasting sharply with its vast, sparsely populated forest areas.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$19.39B

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$7,802.82

GDP Growth (%)

2.44%

Inflation (%)

3.63%

Unemployment (%)

20.28%

Debt to GDP (%)

N/A%

Source: World Bank • Last updated: 12/24/2025

Historical Trends & Data Visualizations

GDP Growth Rate
Annual percentage change in GDP over time
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023-2.00%0.00%2.00%4.00%6.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230650,0001,300,0001,950,0002,600,000
  • Population
Life Expectancy
Average life expectancy at birth (years)
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.0years20.0years40.0years60.0years80.0years
  • Life Expectancy (years)
Renewable Energy Consumption
Percentage of total energy from renewable sources
201420152016201720182019202020210.0%25.0%50.0%75.0%100.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$2,500$5,000$7,500$10,000
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

Share This Country

Local Resources
Curated links to local news, real estate, events, and official websites