Vakamas

Vakamas is a small rural municipality situated in the southeastern part of the country of Gabon, within the province of Nyanga. The settlement lies near the confluence of the Mpenza River and a series of limestone outcrops that define the local landscape. As of the most recent census in 2021, roughly 2,800 residents live in Vakamas, reflecting a modest yet steadily growing population that is predominantly composed of the Betsimisaraka ethnic group, with significant numbers of Ivorian migrants and a minority of French expatriates.

The local economy of Vakamas is largely agrarian, with the cultivation of cocoa beans, banana plantations, and cashew nuts constituting the main source of income for households. Small-scale fishing along the Mpenza River supplements the agrarian output, particularly in the dry season when crop yields may be lower. In recent years, the municipality has begun to develop eco-tourism initiatives aimed at showcasing its lush rainforest corridors and unique biodiversity, which includes several endemic bird species and a number of reptile and amphibian species that have attracted scientific interest.

Historically, Vakamas was part of the traditional territory of the Ngounya Kingdom, and archaeological evidence indicates human occupation dating back to the early Bronze Age. During the colonial period, the village served as a minor trading post for lumber and agricultural products. Post-independence, the area has focused on community-based development projects aimed at improving educational facilities, potable water supply, and healthcare access.

Culturally, Vakamas maintains a vibrant tradition of mask-making, storytelling, and drum ensembles that are performed during annual festivals celebrating the harvest and the Mpenza River’s seasonal flooding. The language spoken by the majority of Vakamas residents is a variant of the Fang language, while French is used in official capacities such as local government and schooling. The municipality operates within the southerly timezone of UTC+1 and observes Central African Time year-round.