The Gabonese Ministry of the Interior, Security, and Decentralization has reminded religious organizations and places of worship that the deadline for their registration, a necessary condition for exemption from the Housing Tax (TFH), is set for Thursday, April 2, 2026. This measure is part of the administrative provisions to allow religious, cultural, or philosophical entities to benefit from the TFH exemption, as stated in an official communiqué from February 9, 2026. The identification process requires the establishment of a file containing a copy of the definitive receipt of the association or religious confession and an electricity bill in the name of the entity.
These documents ensure the legitimacy and actual existence of the place of worship. The ministry has instructed religious leaders to approach the relevant services: for Grand Libreville, the General Directorate of Elections and Public Liberties (DGELP); for the interior of the country, the governors, prefectures, and sub-prefectures. The aim is to strengthen the administrative framework of religious organizations while facilitating access to tax benefits and to prevent any exclusion from the scheme for those who do not meet the deadline.
Gabon’s TFH was introduced to provide financial relief to homeowners, with religious organizations being eligible for exemption. The registration process is crucial for ensuring that only legitimate entities benefit from the tax break. The ministry’s reminder comes as part of efforts to streamline administrative procedures and ensure that all eligible organizations are aware of the deadline.
The registration process is designed to be straightforward, requiring only a few documents to prove the entity’s legitimacy. However, the ministry has emphasized the importance of adhering to the deadline to avoid any complications or exclusions from the tax exemption program.
Source: Gabonese Ministry of the Interior, Security, and Decentralization
