Mahamadou Bonkoungou to Procure Helicopters for Gabon from Pakistan
Mahamadou Bonkoungou, Burkina Faso's wealthiest individual, has been appointed by Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema to procure helicopters from Pakistan to bolster the country's aerial surveillance capabilities. This initiative, which includes acquiring Russian-made Mil Mi-35M helicopters, has raised concerns within Gabon's military regarding civilian involvement in defense procurement. Bonkoungou's EBOMAF Group is also engaged in major infrastructure projects in Gabon, including the development of a new city aimed at sustainable growth.
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Mahamadou Bonkoungou, Burkina Faso's richest man, has been tasked by Gabon's President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema to source helicopters from Pakistan to enhance Gabon's aerial surveillance capabilities. Nguema, who became president in May 2025 after a transitional role, aims to modernize monitoring in response to regional security issues.
Bonkoungou will oversee the acquisition of Russian-made Mil Mi-35M helicopters stationed in Pakistan, which has raised concerns within Gabon's military regarding civilian involvement in defense procurement. This follows Nguema's previous acquisition of two AW139 helicopters in June 2024 for national security operations. Additionally, Bonkoungou's EBOMAF Group is leading significant infrastructure projects in Gabon, including a 244-kilometer road and the development of Libreville 2, a new city aimed at sustainable growth and economic development.
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