Gabon’s president peets civil society to tackle corruption and strengthen financial oversight

Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema held a pivotal meeting on Monday with representatives of civil society, placing the fight against corruption and the responsible management of public funds at the heart of the national agenda.
The delegation, comprised of civil society actors focused on transparency and good governance, was received at the Presidential Palace in Libreville. Discussions centered on the pressing need to combat illicit enrichment and embezzlement of public resources, as part of broader efforts to restore public trust and ensure economic recovery.
“We are committed to acting both within Gabon and on the international stage to defend the interests of our country,” said one civil society representative during the meeting. The delegation outlined a series of planned initiatives aimed at strengthening anti-corruption mechanisms, aligning with global best practices.
A central theme of the discussions was the enhanced role of the National Financial Investigation Agency (ANIF). The participants emphasized the strategic importance of empowering the agency, which has previously demonstrated its effectiveness in dismantling criminal networks and neutralizing individuals engaged in corrupt practices.
“Boosting ANIF as part of Gabon’s economic revival means giving it a second wind—equipping it with the resources and authority necessary to act decisively,” one official noted. “The agency has a presence across all sectors and must remain a critical tool in enforcing financial integrity.”
This renewed commitment aligns with Gabon’s obligations under international frameworks, notably the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, also known as the Merida Convention, to which Gabon is a signatory.
The meeting marked a significant moment in President Oligui Nguema’s ongoing governance reforms, signaling a collaborative approach between government and civil society in the pursuit of transparency, accountability, and sustainable national development.