Gabon is accelerating plans to end chicken imports by 2027, as it deepens cooperation with Senegal to build a stronger domestic poultry industry and reduce reliance on foreign supply.
The Central African nation has turned to Senegal for technical expertise, training, and industry development strategies. Officials believe this partnership will help transform Gabon’s underdeveloped poultry sector into a competitive and self-sufficient industry.
This push gained momentum after Gabon’s agriculture minister, Pacôme Kossy, visited Dakar for high-level talks. During the visit, both countries explored ways to strengthen collaboration through knowledge transfer and structured training programmes. Senegalese authorities expressed readiness to support Gabon in building a high-performing poultry ecosystem.
At the same time, Libreville is advancing a broader food sovereignty agenda. The government has confirmed that broiler chicken imports will end in January 2027. Leaders expect the move to stimulate local production, create jobs, and cut the country’s growing food import bill.
Senegal’s poultry industry offers a proven model. Since introducing a ban on imported frozen chicken in 2005, the country has built one of West Africa’s most resilient agricultural sectors. The restriction protected local farmers from cheaper imports and encouraged long-term investment.
Over the years, Senegal developed a fully integrated poultry value chain. It now includes hatcheries, feed mills, farms, processing plants, and distribution networks. In addition, a coordinated industry body helps align producers, processors, and traders, improving efficiency and standards.
As a result, domestic production has surged. Chicken output has grown more than fivefold since the mid-2000s, supported by strong private sector investment in feed and egg production.
In contrast, Gabon faces significant challenges. Local poultry production remains limited, while imports continue to dominate the market. Domestic supply currently meets only a small share of national demand.
To address this gap, the government has launched an ambitious workforce development plan. Authorities aim to train about 40,000 people across the poultry value chain, including farming, feed production, veterinary services, and cold-chain logistics.
Through its partnership with Senegal, Gabonese stakeholders will gain direct exposure to a working regional model. Delegates have already toured farms, feed mills, and training centres in Dakar to better understand industry operations and regulatory frameworks.
However, replicating Senegal’s success will not be easy. Analysts warn that Gabon must invest heavily in infrastructure, financing, and agricultural inputs. Higher production costs and a smaller domestic market could also slow progress.
Even so, the government remains optimistic. Officials see the collaboration as a strategic step toward reducing imports and strengthening local agriculture.
If the plan succeeds, Gabon’s 2027 chicken import ban could reshape poultry trade across Central Africa. It may also unlock new opportunities for regional suppliers in feed production, breeding, and processing technology.
