President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema of Gabon this week met members of the Gabonese diaspora living in Kigali on the sidelines of his visit for the Africa CEO Forum 2026, held from May 14-15 at the Kigali Convention Centre.

The meeting, held at the Kigali Conference & Exhibition Village, brought together more than 1,100 Gabonese nationals living in Rwanda. Nearly 95 percent of the Gabonese diaspora in Rwanda are students enrolled in higher learning institutions, alongside professionals working in different sectors.

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Addressing the gathering, President Nguema praised the discipline and academic commitment of Gabonese students in Rwanda, urging them to make the most of their studies and later contribute to Gabon’s development.

Highlighting Rwanda’s progress in technology, science, and innovation, the president encouraged more young Gabonese to pursue studies in these fields, describing them as key to Gabon’s future.

He also reminded citizens abroad to represent their country positively through professionalism, discipline, and commitment. In addition, he pointed at the government’s commitment to supporting Gabonese living abroad, saying institutions would continue assisting citizens with administrative services and improving their welfare.

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Gabon’s ambassador to Rwanda, Sylver Aboubakar Minko Mi Nseme, described the Gabonese community as dynamic, disciplined, and committed. He thanked Rwandan authorities for supporting Gabonese students through administrative processes.

Representing the diaspora, Ndjassy Emanuel Scott commended the progress made, citing the opening of the Gabonese embassy in Rwanda.

He said Gabonese youth in Rwanda are closely following developments back home. He noted that the knowledge and skills acquired abroad can assist them contribute to building a new Gabon.