The extraordinary summit of the Heads of State of the Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa (CEMAC), initially scheduled for August 9, 2025, in Bangui, Central African Republic, has been postponed to September 2025 at the request of Gabon. This postponement aims to ensure the effective presence of all member leaders to address the region’s strategic issues.
A Decision Driven by the Diplomatic Calendar
The initial date of August 9, 2025, coincided notably with Gabon’s National Flag Day, a highly symbolic celebration in which Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema wished to participate personally rather than just be represented. Furthermore, August is marked by several independence celebrations in various African states, making the full mobilization of all Heads of State difficult. The postponement therefore allows for better availability of the leaders.
Communication and Transmission of the Request
The postponement request was formalized by President Oligui Nguema through the Central African Republic’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sylvie Baïpo-Temon, and addressed to the current chairman of CEMAC, Faustin-Archange Touadéra.
Stakes and Expectations for the Postponed Summit
The September 2025 summit is expected to address several key issues for the sub-region, including:
- Strengthening economic integration within CEMAC
- Free movement and intra-regional trade
- Monetary reform and financial stability
- Attractiveness of investments
- The rotation of the presidency between the Central African Republic and the Republic of Congo
These discussions are anticipated in a delicate economic context, with an urgent need for reforms to guarantee macroeconomic stability and secure international budgetary support, notably from the IMF.
