Mahamadou Bonkoungou, a Burkinabe magnate with significant ties to Gabon, has been at the center of a series of aviation — related developments that span continents and involve high-stakes negotiations. His involvement in Gabon’s oil sector has led to a tax dispute, while his efforts to secure military equipment for the country have sparked military command concern.
In Gabon, the Gabon Oil Co. Has been instructed by the Treasury to pay a substantial tax debt of 29. 1 billion CFA francs ($51.
2 million), which is tied to the acquisition of Tullow Oil’s assets. This financial obligation underscores the complexities of oil transactions in the region and the financial repercussions they can have on state entities.
Simultaneously, Bonkoungou’s influence in Gabon extends beyond the oil industry. Khalil Rihan, a Lebanese-Gabonese entrepreneur with close ties to President Nguema, is often seen as the intermediary for major foreign firms and smaller operators in Gabon. His role in strategic negotiations on behalf of the country is indicative of the intricate networks that Bonkoungou operates within.
The aviation sector has also been a focal point for Bonkoungou. Gabon Airline Afrijet, which has faced legal challenges regarding the use of the FlyGabon brand, is back in court. Two businessmen are claiming ownership of the brand, and their legal efforts are expected to intensify, particularly concerning intellectual property rights.
In a separate venture, Bonkoungou has sourced helicopters from Pakistan for Libreville, a task assigned to him by Gabon’s President, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema. This move has generated a stir within the military high command, as it involves the procurement of Russian military equipment, a subject of significant interest and scrutiny.
In Burkina Faso, Bonkoungou’s return to the country in early 2024 has been marked by a series of goodwill gestures toward the Burkinabé authorities. However, his reestablishment of favor with the junta led by Ibrahim Traoré remains uncertain, highlighting the political nuances and challenges he faces in the region.
Source: AfricaIntelligence
