After an 11-year journey, Gabon has finally met the stringent requirements of the United Nations Convention against Corruption, as announced during the direct dialogue sessions held in Libreville from June 29 to July 1, 2026. Séraphin Ondoumba, the Gabonese focal point for the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), confirmed the country’s compliance with the second cycle of the convention’s peer review mechanism.
This achievement stems from years of coordinated efforts led by the National Commission for Combating Corruption and Illicit Enrichment (CNLCEI), chaired by Nestor Mbou. Gabon’s compliance is not just a milestone but a testament to its commitment to fostering transparency and accountability in governance.
The country’s dedication has earned it a new role as an evaluating state within the UNODC framework. Selected alongside Uruguay through a random draw, Gabon was entrusted with assessing the Seychelles’ compliance in critical areas such as preventive measures and asset recovery under Chapter II and V of the convention. This responsibility underscores Gabon’s growing influence in international anti-corruption initiatives.
The peer review process has also set the stage for critical reforms. Key priorities include legislative adjustments before, during, and after evaluations, strengthening inter-institutional collaboration, enhancing institutional capacities, sharing best practices, and identifying technical and financial assistance needs. These steps are pivotal in solidifying Gabon’s resolve to combat corruption at all levels.
