Plizio Visual Lab

Mabounié Niobium Project

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

Weather…

The Mabounié Project, situated near Lambaréné, is one of the world's most significant deposits of rare earth elements and niobium. This multi-metal formation contains substantial quantities of phosphate, tantalum, and uranium alongside its primary niobium reserves. Niobium is a critical metal utilized extensively in aerospace engineering, superconductors, and the production of specialized high-strength steel. The development is spearheaded by Maboumine, a subsidiary of the French mining group Eramet. Given the deposit's location in an ecologically sensitive area, extracting and separating the various metals from the complex ore poses a significant technological challenge. Once production commences, Gabon is poised to become one of the world's leading exporters of niobium. The project is a key element of the national strategy to harness the country's mineral wealth beyond manganese and petroleum.

Location: Gabon
Nearby: Lake Onangué (41 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	26	26	26	26	26	25	24	24	25	25	25	25
Rain mm	173	176	272	277	187	30	5	10	79	351	404	226

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Mabounié Niobium Project is a large-scale mining development for extracting niobium and rare earth elements near Lambaréné. It plays a central role in Gabon's strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil and timber.

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Visiting

The site is generally not open to visitors due to safety and operational reasons. However, from the surrounding areas, such as the access roads, the facilities are visible in the distance.

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Where to view it

The best viewpoint is the main road to Lambaréné, where the processing plants are visible. Boat trips on the Ogooué River also provide a scenic perspective of the project site.

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Local products

Local markets in Lambaréné sell handmade crafts and agricultural produce. The extracted minerals (niobium, rare earths) are not directly purchasable, but mining services are noticeable in town.

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Active season

The mine operates year-round, but the dry season (June-September) gives better access roads and clearer views. Construction and exploration phases may temporarily increase activity.

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Nearby

Combine the visit with the town of Lambaréné, known for its colonial history and the Albert Schweitzer Hospital. Nearby Lopé National Park has rainforest and wildlife.