The National Mediator of Gabon, Alexis Boutamba Mbina, has initiated a two-day seminar in Libreville to bolster the capacities of his agents. This effort is in collaboration with the International Organization of La Francophonie. The seminar aims to improve the institution's efficiency in serving citizens. It focuses on modernizing public administration and promoting a culture of performance and results within the Mediator's office.

The seminar was officially opened by Minister of Institutional Reform, François Ndong Obiang. He emphasized the need for a transformation driven by the agents themselves. Ndong Obiang called for an end to outdated habits that hinder public action and for the adoption of new tools to enhance public service. He stressed that administrative reform requires the commitment of individuals within the institution.

The National Mediator, Alexis Boutamba Mbina, echoed the minister's sentiments. He stated that the institution must be deeply rooted in good practices to gain effectiveness. Mbina highlighted that the Mediator's mission is to listen to citizens and foster a more just and accessible relationship between them and state institutions. He emphasized that the institution must be solid to serve citizens effectively.

The training will focus on three fundamental areas: knowledge, know-how, and interpersonal skills. This comprehensive approach aims to equip agents with the necessary tools to handle their responsibilities efficiently. The International Organization of La Francophonie's regional representative, Alphonse Waguena, reaffirmed the organization's support for this initiative. He noted that this support is based on the Bamako Declaration of 2000.

The Bamako Declaration encourages La Francophonie to support the strengthening of national institutions that promote and protect human rights, including mediators' offices. Waguena's statement underscores the importance of international cooperation in enhancing national capacities. The seminar is a significant step towards achieving this goal in Gabon.

The National Mediator's office plays a crucial role in resolving disputes between the administration and citizens. It intervenes to amicably settle disagreements between citizens and state services, local authorities, or public establishments. The institution also ensures that citizens' rights are respected and protected from administrative mechanisms.

The two-day seminar is expected to enhance the capacities of the National Mediator's agents. This will enable them to better serve citizens and promote a culture of performance within the institution. The initiative aligns with Gabon's efforts to modernize its public administration and enhance citizen-state relations.

Key points

  • The National Mediator of Gabon has launched a seminar to strengthen agent capacities in partnership with the International Organization of La Francophonie.
  • The seminar focuses on modernizing public administration and promoting a culture of performance and results within the Mediator's office.
  • The initiative aims to enhance the institution's efficiency in serving citizens and promoting a more just and accessible relationship between them and state institutions.

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SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.