Gabon has officially split the Société d'Énergie et d'Eau du Gabon (SEEG) into two separate state-owned companies, one for electricity and one for water, effective July 1, 2026. This reform aims to improve efficiency and service quality in the energy and water sectors.
The decision follows a trend seen in other African countries, such as Senegal and Ivory Coast, which have unbundled their national utilities to attract investment and enhance management. The Gabonese government stated that the split will allow for more targeted regulation and investment in each sector.
Under the new structure, the electricity company will focus on generation, transmission, and distribution, while the water company will manage water supply and sanitation. The reform is part of a broader strategy to modernize infrastructure and reduce losses in the utility sector.