In the context of the 45th Annual General Assembly of Shelter Afrique Development Bank, the Gabonese Minister of Housing, Urban Planning, and Cadastre, Mays Mouissi, embarked on a visit to several real estate projects executed by the Moroccan group ADDOHA. This mission is aimed at leveraging Moroccan expertise in urban development, large-scale housing production, and public-private partnerships, to support Gabon's ambitions in the housing sector.
During the assembly held in Rabat, Morocco, Minister Mouissi and his delegation observed the Moroccan model of housing production. This visit represents a collaborative effort between Gabon and Morocco, two nations committed to finding practical solutions to the challenges posed by urbanization, housing accessibility, and territorial planning.
ADDOHA, a key player in Morocco's real estate sector, is also a strategic partner for the Gabonese government in the ambitious project to construct 5,000 housing units in Gabon. Consequently, the Moroccan experience is particularly relevant to the Gabonese government, which aims to expedite the implementation of its national housing policy.
The Gabonese delegation led by Minister Mouissi included notable figures such as His Excellency Abdelaziz Branly Oupolo, the High Representative Ambassador of the Gabonese Republic to the Kingdom of Morocco; Ms. Stéphanie Grâce ONA-ONDO, Deputy General Director of the National Real Estate Company (SNI); and Ms. Rebienot Owansango Anna Bernadette, Technical Advisor in charge of real estate management, along with advisors from the Gabonese Chancellery in Morocco.
Urban Planning Lessons from Morocco
Throughout this mission, the Gabonese delegation had the opportunity to appreciate various achievements of the ADDOHA group and to examine the mechanisms employed to produce housing on a large scale. Discussions centered on urban planning, land management, structuring residential spaces, integrating community facilities, and optimizing land use—all of which are critical priorities for Gabon, especially in light of the strong demand for housing and the necessity to better organize urban expansion.
The Moroccan experience illustrates that an effective housing policy does not solely depend on the construction of buildings; it also necessitates meticulous spatial planning, effective land control, appropriate infrastructure, mobilization of financing, and close coordination between the state, real estate operators, and financial partners. This integrated approach can enrich Gabon's discourse around the development of new urban centers, particularly in high-potential areas like Bikélé and Essassa, which are set to host significant residential programs designed not just as living spaces but as comprehensive living environments.
For Gabon, the stakes are clear: to build faster, better organize neighborhoods, control costs, and offer housing that meets the needs of the population.
Strengthening Partnerships with ADDOHA
This visit also opened discussions on the prospects for strengthening the partnership between the Gabonese government and the ADDOHA group. Conversations included the potential extension of the initial program for 5,000 housing units. Already present in Gabon, particularly in real estate projects in Akanda, ADDOHA possesses experience that could support national housing ambitions. For the Gabonese government, the goal is to rely on partners capable of contributing to the production of housing in significant quantities while considering local realities, household financial capacities, and the demands of controlled urban planning.
The presence of Mays Mouissi in Morocco reflects the government’s commitment to seeking operational solutions inspired by proven experiences, thereby accelerating the implementation of the national housing policy. Beyond bilateral cooperation, this mission occurs within a broader continental context. The 45th Annual General Assembly of Shelter Afrique Development Bank provides a strategic dialogue platform on financing African cities, affordable housing, urban infrastructure, and territorial resilience.
By drawing on Moroccan expertise and strengthening partnerships with entities like ADDOHA, Gabon aims to enhance its ability to produce quality housing, develop new urban centers, and sustainably improve living conditions for its population.
As reported by mays-mouissi.com.
