Gabons

Gabons is a term occasionally used to refer to the people of Gabon, a country in Central Africa. The standard demonym for citizens is Gabonese, while Gabons appears only in limited or historical usage and is not the formal designation for the population.

Gabon is a sovereign state on the west coast of Central Africa. It is bordered by Equatorial Guinea, Cameroon, and the Republic of the Congo, with a short Atlantic coastline. Libreville is the capital and largest city. The country covers about 267,000 square kilometers and has an estimated population around 2.3 million. French is the official language; major local languages include Fang, Myene, Punu, and Nzebi.

Historically, Gabon was a French colony that gained independence in 1960. It was governed for decades by the Bongo family, with Omar Bongo Ondimba serving as president from 1967 to 2009, followed by Ali Bongo Ondimba. The political system is a presidential republic within a multi-party framework; the government has drawn criticism for corruption and limits on press freedom, while implementing infrastructure development.

Economically, oil dominates export revenue and GDP, making Gabon one of sub-Saharan Africa's more resource-rich economies. Other sectors include manganese mining, timber, and controlled forestry. The government has pursued diversification and investment in infrastructure, yet the economy remains vulnerable to oil price swings and external demand. Protected areas and ecotourism are promoted as diversification avenues.

Gabon is ecologically diverse, with a network of national parks and protected areas that preserve tropical forest, savanna, and wildlife. More than 40 ethnic groups contribute to a rich cultural landscape, including the Fang, Bapounou, and Myène communities. Christianity is the predominant religion, with traditional beliefs and Islam also present.