Cameroon was represented in Libreville, Gabon, at the inauguration of the "Omar Bongo Ondimba" Congress Hall on May 3, 2026, by the Minister of External Relations, Lejeune Mbella Mbella. The absence of President Paul Biya and the last-minute cancellation of Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute's trip raised questions.
The ceremony took place in the presence of several heads of state, at the invitation of Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema. The infrastructure is considered strategic for Gabon's institutional influence. Paul Biya's absence was noted, especially since no official communication had been made regarding his non-participation.
According to concordant sources, Joseph Dion Ngute was initially scheduled to represent Cameroon and had even traveled to Yaoundé-Nsimalen International Airport before his trip was canceled without public explanation. This cancellation highlighted protocol coordination issues within the Cameroonian government. Speculation suggests an imminent cabinet reshuffle. The Prime Minister's presence on national soil is often considered a prerequisite for the appointment of new ministers.
Lejeune Mbella Mbella ultimately ensured Cameroon's representation at this event. The meeting also provided an opportunity for a forum dedicated to promoting Gabon's national development and growth plan, highlighting the country's economic ambitions.
Despite the uncertainties surrounding the Cameroonian delegation, the ceremony proceeded in accordance with diplomatic expectations, with the participation of several African leaders. Gabon took advantage of this event to reaffirm its regional role and its attractiveness for strategic partnerships in key sectors such as investment, infrastructure and sustainable development.
Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema expressed his hope that Gabon would host major international events, including the African Union Summit in 2027 and the Francophonie Summit in 2030.
Lejeune Mbella Mbella has held the position of Minister of External Relations of Cameroon since October 2, 2015.
