Gabon Independence Day 2023: Date, History, Facts about Gabon

Gabon’s Independence Day is annually observed on August 17. This day commemorates the establishment of an independent nation when, after more than a century of French rule, Gabon declared its independence. As a reminder of this freedom, locals conduct celebrations, concerts, parades, and fireworks displays on this day. It is also a day to educate the younger generation and pass on the country’s rich history in order to bring the spirit of freedom to life. As a mark of respect for their nation’s Independence Day celebration, all commercial and administrative establishments are closed.

The background of Gabon Independence Day

In 1472, the Portuguese, commanded by Diego Cam, were the first European settlers to arrive in Gabon. The name “Gabon” was derived from the Portuguese word “Gabo,” which means “cloak.” Intriguingly, the mouth of the Como River was also known as the ‘Rio do Gabao’ or simply ‘Gabao.’ On the mainland, the Portuguese established sugar plantations and expanded trade. Their trade flourished and spread throughout most of Europe. At the end of the sixteenth century, the Dutch, English, French, and Spanish competitors began exchanging alcoholic beverages, textiles, firearms, and iron products for ivory, hardwood, and slaves. This slave trade attracted the attention of French colonists, which ultimately led to their century-long rule over Gabon.

In 1839, the local ruler of Gabon signed away the nation’s sovereignty and granted France permission to control the country. In 1875, a French explorer named Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza began an expedition to Gabon, and he also founded one of the country’s major cities, Franceville. Gabon became an official French colony in 1885, and one of the four French Equatorial Africa colonies in 1910.

The French rule in Gabon was met with minimal resistance from the locals. However, the public opposition to compelled labour and labour taxes for public health was substantial. Years later, an elite group was established to advocate a ‘pro-French’ but ‘anti-colonialist’ movement. The members of this group became politicians during the Fourth French Republic, which lasted from 1946 to 1958, when Gabon became a French overseas territory with its own assembly and representation. In 1958, France granted Gabon autonomy as a republic. After a succession of multiple cooperation agreements, Gabon was granted complete independence and sovereignty on August 17, 1960.

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5 fascinating facts about GABON

Initially, the French banner was superimposed on the flag of Gabon; however, after its independence from France, the French flag was removed.

‘La Concorde’, the national anthem of Gabon, was composed by Georges Aleka Damas immediately following the country’s independence.

The colours of the Gabonese flag signify the equator (yellow), vegetation (green), and the Atlantic Ocean (blue).

De Brazza is considered to be the originator of French Equatorial Africa, which includes Gabon.

The first political party to pursue Gabon’s representation in the French administration was Jeunesse Gabonais.

GABON INDEPENDENCE DAY DATES