D uring a visit to the Lopé region, President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema highlighted the precarious situation of eco-guards, the frontline guardians of Gabon's biodiversity. These agents, who often lack official status and face prolonged salary arrears, play a crucial role in preserving ecosystems while facing high personal risks.

The Head of State has mandated the government to study the integration of eco-guards into the Civil Service. The goal is to secure their professional status and ensure institutional recognition commensurate with their responsibilities. This decision aims to provide lasting stability to those who protect natural heritage, sometimes at the cost of significant personal sacrifice.

In parallel, the President emphasized the need to reconcile biodiversity protection with the safety of rural populations, who are frequently victims of conflicts with wildlife. "Protecting biodiversity must never endanger human lives," he reminded, highlighting the urgent need to strengthen protection mechanisms and revise the legal framework in cases of life-threatening danger.

Beyond security and status issues, an economic and ecological dimension is also being considered. The President has requested an exploration into the possibility of regulated buffalo meat commercialization, while respecting environmental balances. This project aims to harmonize the sustainable use of local resources with the long-term maintenance of ecosystems.

In summary, President Oligui Nguema has established a clear roadmap: upgrade the role of eco-guards, ensure human safety in rural areas facing wildlife conflicts, adapt legal frameworks accordingly, and integrate sustainable economic resource management. Humanity remains at the center of this policy, demonstrating a firm commitment to harmonizing nature conservation with the well-being of the population.