The Microsoft Corporation and Libreville in Gabon have signed a partnership agreement on March 16, 2016 regarding the implementation of CityNext program. At the launching of the CityNext program in 2013, Laura Ipsen, Vice President of Microsoft Worldwide public sector division, said the program would allow for the establishment of a digital environment that favors the development of new growth and social opportunities.

Via Cloud and Big Data, Microsoft plans to make Libreville a smart city. With CityNext, the firm plans to help Gabon’s capital develop technological solutions needed in sectors such as public transport, power, health, education, social services, infrastructures, water, justice or culture. This environment will allow Libreville’s residents to better interact with administrations. This will make their day-to-day life easier while stimulating innovation.

CityNext’s arrival in Libreville is also part of a partnership agreement between Gabon’s government and UNAIDS. Applications conceived through the program will help Libreville better fight AIDS as they will facilitate prevention, screening and treatment services. Gabon is the second African nation to integrate CityNext after Senegal, in 2015.