(Ecofin Agency) - Gabonese subsidiary of Singapore group Olam International said it will, in 2017, focus on the Nkok privileged economic region (ZERP) as well as on transport, energy and hydraulic infrastructures.

In the Nkok ZERP, the firm plans to develop 1126 ha of multi-sector industrial warehouses, to help diversify Gabon’s economy and make 100% made in Gabon products for both the local and external markets.

Regarding infrastructures, besides the 2,300 km of power lines already laid for 450 villages, Olam plans to build 65 km of water pipes between Port-Gentil and Loanda’s beach. The new investments add to a hundred hydraulic standpipes already installed. The goal here is to insure that each and everyone has access to reliable and modern power services, for a national socio-economic boom.

In the transport sector, Olam plans to increase the number of jobs at the Cargo Port which is under construction, from 500 to 1,300. The firm said 800 additional jobs will be generated in the beginning of the year, at the 18ha site which will be dedicated to the transportation of containers and cargos.

The company’s plans for the sector include reducing cost for importing and exporting goods, in line with the government’s strategy to bring cost of living down.

Similarly, the Owendo mining port will have its employment capacity increased by 300 direct jobs. Moreover, this dock which will be expanded to 45ha, will be dedicated to the export of commodities and aggregate transport.

Olam says its plans for the sector include cutting down import-export logistics costs and make Gabon’s mining sector more competitive.

Synclair Owona