On October 23, 2023, the United States announced the suspension of “the majority” of its aid to Gabon in response to the coup that took place on August 30 and which overthrew President Ali Bongo Ondimba. The move follows the official designation of the overthrow as a coup by the US State Department.
In a statement, the US State Department said: “The United States concludes that a military coup has occurred in Gabon and is suspending most US assistance to the government.” This suspension was preceded by a one-month evaluation period.
However, it is important to emphasize that humanitarian, health and education aid will not be affected by this decision. It is therefore mainly a symbolic suspension, given the relatively limited US involvement in the country.
The US State Department also reiterated its support for a transition to sustainable civilian governance in Gabon, as well as the importance of common security interests in the Gulf of Guinea. A resumption of aid will be considered based on concrete actions aimed at restoring democracy in the country.
It is worth noting that Judd Devermont, special advisor to United States President Joe Biden, recently met with General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, who is now the head of Gabon following the coup. During this meeting, Devermont affirmed that the United States was ready to strengthen its partnership with Gabon once power was returned to civilians. General Nguema has pledged to organize democratic elections in the near future.
In conclusion, the suspension of American aid to Gabon following the 2023 coup d’état has an important symbolic impact, but does not affect the humanitarian, health and educational fields. The United States advocates a transition to civilian governance and expects concrete actions to restore democracy in the country.