Gabon's Iboga: A Sacred Plant with Economic Potential
Hidden in the Gabonese forests, the iboga plant holds a sacred place in local traditions, used for centuries in religious ceremonies and believed to combat addiction. Now, Gabon is striving to tap into its international market potential, facing challenges in balancing economic benefits with the preservation of its cultural heritage and intellectual property rights. While some companies have export licenses, the country needs a robust industrial policy to avoid being undercut by competitors producing synthetic ibogaine or extracting it from other plants. The future of iboga in Gabon hinges on navigating the complex interplay between tradition and modern economics, a test of whether the nation can successfully capitalize on this unique resource.