The Gabon Republic is a country situated in western part of central Africa. Its’ neighboring countries are Equatorial Guinea, Republic of the Congo, and the Gulf of the Guinea. Gabon got independence from France on August 17, 1960. A democratic constitution and a multiparty system were introduced in the politics of Gabon in early 1990. Gabon is accounted as one of the most affluent country in the west central African region that owes to its small population, abundant natural resources, and foreign private investment.

Present day the Pygmys at the start of culture occupied Gabon; later, Pygmys replaced by Bantu tribes. Gabon was home for Bantu tribes when French occupied the area in 1885. In 1910, it became one of the four territories of French Equatorial Africa, a federation that survived until 1959. On August 17, 1960 these French territories became independent and called the Gabon Republic. Upon independence, Léon M’ba, was elected the first President and Ondimba the first Vice President of the Gabon Republic.

The Gabon Republic has accepted its new constitution in March 1991. The new constitution provides Gabon with a bill of rights, the creation of the National Council of Democracy that also oversees the guarantee of those rights and a governmental advisory board, which deals with economic and social issues. Gabon conducted multiparty elections in 1990 – 91.

The President of Gabon is the Supreme Authority of the government. He / She has the right to dissolve the National Assembly, declare a state of siege, delay legislation, conduct referenda, and appoint and dismiss the prime minister and cabinet members.

Gabon has at least forty ethnic groups with separate languages and cultures. The Fang are generally thought to be the largest, although recent census data seem to favor the Bandjabi (or Nzebi). Others include the Myene, Bakota, Eshira, Bapounou, and Okande. Gabon’s per capita income is four times higher than the other sub Saharan African nations. Its’ economy is largely driven by under earth resources; oil accounts for 50% of GDP and 80% of exports. After oil, timber and manganese mining are the other major sectors.