The Forum for the Organisation of Recovery and the Realisation of Hope (FORCE) launched its associative return on 12 September 2026 in Akanda under the theme “Assessment and perspectives: citizens’ views on government action”. The event brought together association members, several partner organisations and Akanda residents for two panel discussions focused on the country’s socio-economic and infrastructural development.

In her opening address, general coordinator Scholastique Ayoli Letsina underlined FORCE’s determination to turn civil society into a committed partner in building Gabon alongside head of state Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, who received broad popular support on 12 April 2025. She argued that supporting public action must also involve monitoring, evaluating and putting forward concrete proposals.

Citizens’ views on government action

This was the purpose of the two panels, the first of which examined “Public action: current situation and challenges”. The discussions were framed as a civic exercise aimed at separating promises from tangible results. FORCE stressed the need to move beyond sweeping criticism in order to identify obstacles and offer practical solutions. Ultry Okenkali, a founding member and public relations officer, highlighted the association’s educational mission of explaining government action to local communities and channelling their concerns back to decision-makers.

The second panel, devoted to “General population and housing census 2026: issues and implications”, looked at demographic data, territorial distribution and how these factors affect national planning. The session produced several resolutions intended for the relevant administrative bodies, drawing on the panellists’ analyses as well as observations and questions from the large audience.

A framework document for public administrations

Participants recommended making greater use of census data when designing public policies, taking territorial disparities into account and strengthening decentralisation. The meeting also urged a closer alignment between public action and the everyday realities experienced by communities. FORCE therefore aims to make citizen monitoring a lever for better governance.

At the close of the event, the association announced that it would prepare a general report bringing together the conclusions and proposals from both panels. This document will be shared with the relevant administrations. FORCE also plans to continue its solidarity, community and health initiatives. For its leaders, civil society must now go beyond simple commentary and play an active part in nation-building. The Akanda return meeting thus opens a new cycle centred on contribution, dialogue and proposition.