Gabonese women launch manifesto to influence public debate

On April 17, 2026, during National Gabonese Women's Day, 25 Gabonese women from diverse professional backgrounds, including dancers, writers, lawyers, and personal development coaches, gathered at the Baie des Rois to discuss challenges and opportunities for women's professional and artistic development. The event centered on the presentation of the Institut Concorde's White Paper, a collective work by these 25 women, aiming to encourage women's participation in Gabon's public discourse. The White Paper offers recommendations to shape public debate and national decisions, focusing on women's engagement in the public sphere, their legitimacy, and their increased presence on social media. Nathalie Avomo, a cosmetics entrepreneur and contributor, emphasized the urgency for women to claim their rightful place, stating that the book provides inspiration through its diverse profiles. Anne-Mira Ossouka Ndyage, another contributor, explained the blue cover of the "White Paper" symbolizes its purpose as a document of recommendations for public authorities, highlighting concrete ways to improve the framework and promotion of women's rights in Gabon. The book, already available in Port-Gentil, will embark on a national tour to reach a wider audience, especially young people. Chelsy 241, a tourism agency manager, expressed her satisfaction, noting that discussing the commitment of Gabonese women deeply resonated with her, and she believes the book can be a catalyst for those wishing to c