Gabon’s GDJ raises national flag as operator builds presence
The ceremony follows approval of GDJ’s strategic plan, budgets and internal regulations as the state operator prepares its operational rollout.
Key takeaways:
- Gabon’s state gaming operator La Gabonaise des Jeux raised the national flag at its Libreville headquarters on October 12.
- Board president Major General Bonjean Mbandza led the ceremony, which GDJ described as a symbol of national sovereignty.
- GDJ was established in December 2025 to organise, operate and control gaming activities under Gabon’s state-monopoly framework.
- The operator approved its strategic development plan, operating budget, investment budget and internal regulations at its first board meeting in August 2026.
- GDJ’s proposed admission to the Association of African Lotteries remains subject to ratification at the organisation’s April 2027 General Assembly.
Gabon.- Gabon’s state gaming operator, La Gabonaise des Jeux, has raised the national flag at its headquarters in Libreville as it builds its institutional presence ahead of its operational rollout. Board president Major General Bonjean Mbandza led the October 12 ceremony, which GDJ presented as a symbol of the operator’s national role. The ceremony follows the approval of GDJ’s strategic plan, budgets and internal regulations in August.
The GDJ said in a statement: “This flag now flies at our entrance and reminds us of what matters most. Through this ceremony, GDJ affirms its belonging to the nation.”
Established in December 2025, GDJ is responsible for organising, operating and controlling gaming activities under Gabon’s state-monopoly framework. At its first board meeting on August 7 2026, the operator approved its strategic development plan, operating budget, investment budget and internal regulations, establishing the framework for its operational rollout.
GDJ’s stated priorities include strengthening sector oversight, protecting players, combating illegal gambling and contributing to economic development. The operator has also identified centralising financial flows and improving oversight as part of its role in the restructured market.
The flag-raising comes as GDJ develops regional partnerships. On September 10, the board of the Association of African Lotteries (ALA) approved GDJ’s admission to the organisation. Formal admission remains subject to ratification at the ALA General Assembly in April 2027. GDJ has said the affiliation will provide a framework for technical cooperation and the exchange of expertise with established African lotteries.
