Context
Gamba, a remote city with around 10,000 inhabitants in south-western Gabon, is one of Shell’s most important areas for onshore oil production in the country. The area, which borders two national parks, is currently only accessible by boat or plane. This isolation results in extremely high costs of living and slow economic development.
Objective
Gamba and the Ndougou department are made accessible via a connection to the national road network. This leads to an increased exchange of goods and materials, lower prices and higher mobility, resulting in improved economic and social conditions for the inhabitants. Local small and medium-sized construction companies will be professionalised and receive training, increasing their capacity and creating jobs.
Approach
GIZ IS is planning and supervising construction, which is being carried out mainly by small and medium-sized Gabonese companies. The companies are also receiving support in the fields of financial management, project planning and technical construction issues. In addition, an accompanying rural development fund will promote the implementation of participatory development measures in the neighboring communities.
Services
Technical study on the feasibility and design of the road and the bridge
Environmental impact assessment
Tendering, evaluation and contracting of local construction
Overall project management, quality assurance and supervision of construction
On-the job and formal training on business planning, financial management, tendering procedures, road construction and application of environmental and health standards
Managing a fund for local development
Results
Construction of a road (53 km) and a bridge (55m) that comply with international environmental standards
The local construction industry is strengthened and professionalised on a sustainable basis
Creation of around 200 jobs during the construction period (approx. two years)
Improved living conditions and potential for local economic development
Drinking water supplies, agriculture, fisheries in the communities bordering the road are improved