Africa Newsroom — The Gabonese President, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, presided over a crucial Council of Ministers session on December 4, 2025, in Burkina Faso. The meeting, which was pivotal for both countries, saw a series of significant decisions and declarations that are poised to shape their respective futures.
In Burkina Faso, the Council of Ministers convened in Ouagadougou, with Captain Ibrahim Traoré at the helm. One of the most notable outcomes was the approval of the specific statutes of the Support Fund for Sport and Private Press, known as “Wassa Bondo.” This fund, a merger of the National Fund for the Promotion of Sports and Leisure and the Support Fund for the Private Press, is expected to bolster both sectors. Additionally, the country’s impressive economic performance was highlighted, with state resource mobilization reaching 2,513.76 billion FCFA by September 30, 2025, exceeding the period’s target by 105.01%. This surge in revenue has significantly reduced the internal debt, with nearly 1,200 billion FCFA settled.
The Gabonese Council of Ministers meeting, led by President Oligui Nguema, focused on a range of critical issues. One of the key decisions was the formalization of the nationalization of SN CITEC, a move that will see the company operate under new statutes to fulfill its state-owned enterprise missions effectively. This decision is expected to enhance the company’s operational efficiency and strategic direction.
The meeting also addressed the country’s financial stability and economic growth. As of September 30, 2025, Gabon had mobilized 2,500 billion FCFA in internal resources, achieving 105% of the forecast. This economic performance is anticipated to lead to a projected growth rate of 6.28% by the end of December 2025.
In terms of international relations, Burkina Faso’s removal from the grey list of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on October 24, 2025, was a significant achievement. This development is expected to boost the country’s financial sector and improve its global standing.
Furthermore, the Council of Ministers in Burkina Faso adopted a revised penal code that reinstates the death penalty for certain offenses, including high treason and acts of terrorism. The code also addresses economic crimes, imposing penalties of up to life imprisonment for embezzlement or corruption exceeding 5 billion FCFA. The inclusion of sanctions against the promotion and practice of homosexuality has sparked debate and controversy.
Experts have weighed in on the implications of these decisions. Analysts suggest that the economic growth and debt reduction in both countries are a testament to their commitment to fiscal discipline and economic reform. However, the reinstatement of the death penalty and the sanctions against homosexuality have raised concerns about human rights and social cohesion.
In conclusion, the Council of Ministers meetings in Burkina Faso and Gabon on December 4, 2025, marked a turning point for both nations. The decisions made will undoubtedly shape their economic, social, and political landscapes in the coming years.
Source: Agpgabon
Additional reporting by ImNews
