Gabonese public body, the Deposit and Consignment Office of Gabon, has bought a 35% stake in Rougier Africa International for €24m.

Rougier said the sale was part of a capital long term plan that would enable it to actively pursue its policy of development in the Congo Basin.

It said the proceeds will help accelerate industrialisation programmes and certification, as well as deploy an external growth strategy.

The Deposit and Consignment Office’s purchase is part of its policy to take minority interests and long-term corporate partnerships in key strategic areas.