On 30 April 2025, the African Union (AU) officially lifted its sanctions on Gabon, reinstating the country’s full membership following a successful political transition. The decision was made by the AU’s Peace and Security Council (PSC) during its 1,277th meeting, where it evaluated Gabon’s return to constitutional order and deemed the process “generally successful.”
Gabon had been suspended from the AU on 30 August 2023 after General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema led a coup that removed long-time President Ali Bongo Ondimba. Since then, the country has gone through a transition period, culminating in a presidential election in April 2025, where Oligui won a decisive victory with 94.85% of the vote.
PSC Chairperson Rebecca Amuge Otengo announced the lifting of sanctions, stating that Gabon is now free to fully participate in all AU activities. Gabonese Foreign Minister Regis Onanga Ndiaye, speaking from the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, hailed the decision as a proud moment for the Gabonese people and a return to the “great African family.”
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With the sanctions removed, Gabon can now take part in international meetings and initiatives organised by the AU and its partners. However, countries like Guinea, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger remain suspended due to ongoing military rule and delays in returning to civilian governance.
The AU’s decision represents a significant step in Gabon’s reintegration into continental affairs and highlights ongoing efforts to restore democratic governance across the region.
