The Nomba Firefighters’ Residential City in Owendo, Gabon, has been officially inaugurated following an extensive renovation project initiated by President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema in January 2024. Originally constructed in 1986, the residential complex had fallen into disrepair, prompting a much-needed overhaul to restore it as a modern and dignified living space for its occupants.
After a year and a half of refurbishment, the complex now boasts 33 fully renovated duplexes, each equipped with multiple bedrooms, modern kitchens, and contemporary amenities. The site also includes a security post to ensure residents’ safety and a 200-square-metre commissary designed to meet their daily needs.
Adding to the family-friendly atmosphere, the renovation introduced a two-storey building dedicated to a daycare centre for firefighters’ children, alongside a playground and landscaped green spaces that promote well-being and community spirit.
The inauguration ceremony, held on Saturday, was attended by government officials, senior military leaders, representatives from the Defence and Security Forces, and beneficiaries of the project.
Colonel Ayo Owondo Alix Alfred, Commander of the Fire Brigade, expressed gratitude to the President, praising the fulfillment of his promise as a reflection of social justice and republican duty.
He also urged his colleagues to take responsibility for maintaining the new facilities.
The construction company’s representative commended the trust bestowed by the highest authorities and lauded President Oligui Nguema’s tangible dedication to Gabon’s development.
The event featured the decoration of ten officers with the Armed Forces Recognition Medal and the ceremonial cutting of the ribbon. Following this, a guided tour of a model villa took place, after which the President handed over keys to residents and delivered 15 state-of-the-art vehicles to fire stations across several provinces, including Moyen-Ogooué, Ngounié, Nyanga, Ogooué-Ivindo, Ogooué-Lolo, and Woleu-Ntem.
This rehabilitation project forms part of a broader initiative by the Gabonese government to enhance the living and working conditions of public officials, particularly those committed to protecting the nation’s population.
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