Gabon faces growing concerns over unregulated revival churches and associated criminal activities

Despite recurring scandals, the state has been criticized for its inaction in regulating these organizations. The issue, highlighted by GabonReview since 2013, points to many assemblies operating more as businesses than places of worship, leveraging communication, psychology, and marketing techniques to exploit vulnerable individuals. Recent high-profile cases include the arrest of "prophet" Emmanuel Ndzoma in September 2022 for allegedly impregnating a follower, the incarceration of pastor Jean-Yves Boussougou in October 2023 for repeated sexual assaults on minors, and the suspicious death of a three-year-old child in November 2024 at the Schekina church, leading to the pastor's suspended sentence.

Further incidents involve Joël Andy Poungou, leader of the Ministry of all Nations, in February 2026 for indecency and violence, and Georges Olivier Mbazaboua of the VLR church for alleged sexual abuse, fraud, and manipulation. These cases are seen as part of a larger pattern of exploiting human vulnerability, often fueled by the "prosperity theology" which encourages followers to donate with promises of multiplied returns. Critics argue that the lack of legal oversight is a political choice, allowing these groups to proliferate without proper accreditation or control.

Calls are being made for mandatory registration,