Gabon Targets $2 Billion Investment to Revive Mabounié Rare Earths Project

Gabon is seeking approximately $2 billion to revive the long-delayed Mabounié niobium and rare earths project, in a proposed development involving Emirati-backed New Energy Metals (NEM) and Chinese engineering group ENFI.

The project, located about 200 kilometres southeast of Libreville, could mark a significant step towards expanding Gabon’s role in the global critical minerals sector if the proposed investment moves forward.

New Energy Metals and its subsidiary, Dusk Gabon, presented a technical study for the development to President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema during his visit to Beijing last week, according to a statement published on the Gabonese presidency’s Facebook page.

Project targets construction in 2027

The proposed development is expected to include mineral processing facilities in Gabon, allowing more of the project’s value to be generated within the country.

According to the presidential statement, the project could create more than 2,500 direct jobs, providing employment opportunities during construction and subsequent operations.

Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027, although the announcement did not provide a detailed implementation timetable or confirm when commercial production could start.

Mabounié’s long-awaited development

Mabounié has been explored for several years but has yet to reach commercial production. Its proposed development would bring niobium and rare earths into greater focus within Gabon’s mining industry.

Niobium is used in high-strength steel alloys and specialised industrial applications, while rare earth elements are important inputs for technologies including permanent magnets, electric vehicles and wind turbines.

The project’s potential processing facilities could also support domestic mineral value addition rather than relying solely on the export of unprocessed materials.

Financing and project structure remain unclear

Despite the proposed $2 billion investment, important details remain outstanding.

The announcement did not explain how the development would be financed or clarify the respective responsibilities and investment commitments of New Energy Metals and ENFI.

The project’s progress will therefore depend on securing the required funding, completing development arrangements and advancing towards construction.

If implemented, Mabounié could become an important addition to Central Africa’s critical minerals portfolio, while supporting Gabon’s ambitions to attract investment, create jobs and expand domestic mineral processing.