Gabon: Taxe d’habitation Reform Critiqued by Sylvain Ombindha Talheywa III. LIBREVILLE, Gabon — Sylvain Ombindha Talheywa III, a former unionist and current inspector of taxes, has voiced concerns about the recent implementation of the Taxe forfaitaire d’habitation, or the flat-rate housing tax, during a press conference in Libreville on Saturday, according to the African Graphics Press (AGP). Talheywa III, who is also a student at the National School of Administration (ENA), highlighted the need for a more tailored approach to the tax reform within the country’s financial framework.
While acknowledging the importance of the tax in mobilizing public resources, the inspector emphasized that the current application is not suitable due to existing challenges. He cited the need for addressing water stress, improving the sustainable supply of electricity, and reconfiguring road infrastructure as essential prerequisites before the tax is implemented more broadly. Talheywa III urged the government to be attentive to social realities and the daily difficulties faced by households, while also commending the initial transformations seen in the country.
Officials commented on the matter.
The former syndicalist also praised the early transformations observed in Gabon, but called for public policies to better align with the living conditions of citizens. Further details regarding the implementation of the Taxe forfaitaire d’habitation and the government’s response to Talheywa III’s concerns are expected to be released in the coming days.
