Government officials and international experts gathered in Libreville to launch the evaluation mission.
Strengthening governance and transparency in Gabon
The Vice President of the Government, Hermann Immongault, officially opened the country’s evaluation mission on June 29, 2026, in Libreville. This event marks the start of the direct dialogue for the second cycle of the mechanism reviewing the implementation of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC). Over the course of four days, administrative technicians, experts from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and international partners will collaborate to assess Gabon‘s advancements in preventing and combating financial malpractice.
Having been a party to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption since October 1, 2007, Gabon is focused on solidifying reforms that enhance transparency, promote accountability in public management, and refine the governance of its national institutions.
During the opening of the proceedings, Hermann Immongault emphasized that the fight against corruption is a fundamental pillar for social and economic progress. He stated that public integrity improves the effectiveness of government actions, protects investments, boosts economic competitiveness, and establishes the necessary framework for sustainable and fair development.
Focusing on asset recovery and preventive measures
This evaluation process is viewed as more than a technical exercise by those involved. Séraphin Ondoumba, a member of the National Commission for the Fight Against Corruption and Illicit Enrichment (CNLCEI) and UNODC focal point, expressed confidence that this direct dialogue will allow for a better appreciation of the nation’s efforts while strengthening cooperation between member states and sharing best practices.
This mission is a critical phase of the second review cycle, which focuses heavily on preventive strategies and the recovery of assets derived from corrupt activities. Mohamed Cherbal, the Head of the UNODC mission, explained that the review team will spend the week conducting an in-depth analysis of Gabon‘s anti-corruption frameworks, specifically looking at how the convention’s provisions on prevention and asset retrieval are being applied.
Scheduled to run from June 29 to July 1, 2026, this new assessment follows the first review cycle launched in 2010. During that initial phase, Gabon was evaluated on legal enforcement and international cooperation, which included a field visit in 2015 by experts from Sierra Leone and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.
A roadmap for future administrative reforms
The current expectations remain high for the national leadership. Nestor Mbou, President of the CNLCEI, sees this dialogue as a vital opportunity for the continuous improvement of public policy. He noted that the goal is not just to evaluate legal structures, but to identify successful practices, acknowledge progress, and address remaining hurdles to accelerate the national strategy.
The findings from this mission are expected to guide future legislative reforms and reinforce national mechanisms for oversight and the recovery of illicit funds. The ultimate objective is to cultivate a public administration characterized by integrity, efficiency, and accountability to the citizens of Gabon.
