Libreville, Gabon – Thousands of teachers across Gabon have been on strike for six weeks, protesting a 10-year freeze on wages and demanding improved working conditions. The strike has effectively paralyzed the school system, marking the first major wave of social unrest under the rule of President Brice Oligui Nguema, who seized power in a military coup in August 2023.
Voices from the Classroom
French teacher Junior Anguila Obame expressed the frustration driving the strike:
“Today, we are in a situation where we are forced to express our anger, to say that enough is enough. To sound the alarm, not only to improve our own living conditions, but also those of learners. As someone said, if you want to build a strong nation, you need a strong education system.”
Union Demands
The collective leading the movement includes the National Union of Teachers (SENA), the National Union of Technical and Vocational Teachers, and SOS Education. Among their key demands is the release of two union members imprisoned for supporting the strike.
While SOS Education has called for classes to resume, most teachers remain firm in their refusal to return until their preconditions are met.
Magloire Memiaga, Secretary General of SENA, highlighted the long-standing nature of the grievances:
“Since 1990, teachers have been raising issues such as the formalisation of administrative situations, which boil down to careers, working conditions, and the constitution of educational establishments.”
Government Response
In response, the government has launched a fast-track review aimed at clearing salary arrears, resolving status backlogs, and addressing delays in appointments.
The Ministry of Education has also announced a significant budget increase, rising from $237 million in 2025 to $496 million in 2026, signaling an effort to strengthen the sector and address systemic challenges.
A Test for Nguema’s Leadership
The strike represents a critical test for President Nguema’s administration, as education unions push for reforms that go beyond wages to include structural improvements in Gabon’s school system. With negotiations ongoing, the outcome will shape both the future of Gabon’s classrooms and the credibility of the new government’s commitment to social dialogue.
