Gabon's mercury cream paradox: WHO report highlights discrepancy between international commitments and domestic enforcement
via Gabon Review5 min read
A recent report by the World Health Organization WHO has exposed a significant contradiction in Gabon's approach to mercury-containing skin lightening creams. While Gabon has taken a leading role on the international stage, notably through the "Libreville Commitment" adopted in January 2025, to eliminate mercury cosmetics, these dangerous products continue to be sold in Gabonese markets. The WHO tested products sold in Gabon and confirmed the presence of mercury, a toxic substance that can cause severe kidney, neurological, and skin damage. The National Agency for Medicines and Other Health Products ANMAPS has published a list of prohibited products, yet they remain available for purchase. The article highlights that despite a normative framework, including the Minamata Convention and national awareness campaigns, enforcement is lacking. There is an absence of market controls, stock seizures, and penalties for non-compliant vendors. The report implicitly criticizes the government's inaction, stating that merely publishing a list of banned products online is insufficient for public health. It calls for effective point-of-sale controls, visible seizures, deterrent sanctions, and public communication in local languages and accessible channels. The article emphasizes that mercury poisoning is often slow and silent, making government inaction inexcusable.
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