Benin’s council of ministers adopts new agricultural intensification programme

Normative Measures

Among the normative measures, a decree was adopted for the transmission to the National Assembly, seeking authorization for Benin’s adherence to the Marrakech Treaty.

This treaty aims to facilitate access to published works for the visually impaired and those with other reading difficulties, marking a significant step towards inclusivity.

Communications

Water Supply System for Akpassi

The Council approved the contractualization for the construction and supervision of a multi-village potable water supply system in Akpassi, Bantè. Essential groundwork, including resource mobilization and preliminary technical studies, has been completed.

Construction is slated for a 15-month timeline, with qualified companies and consultancies selected for the project’s execution and oversight.

Recruitment for the Air Force

To address personnel shortages in the Benin Armed Forces, the Council authorized the recruitment of 50 officers and non-commissioned officers from the successful candidates of psychotechnical tests conducted in December 2023.

This recruitment will support the Air Force’s expansion, with 15 pilots, 5 base officers and mechanics, and 30 technical sergeants slated for training.

Technical Control Missions for Government Projects

Contracts have been awarded to consultancies following a rigorous selection process by the Road Infrastructure and Land Use Planning Society (SIRAT).

These consultancies will oversee technical control during the design and execution phases of various government projects, ensuring safety, accessibility, and compliance with energy efficiency standards.

Key projects include the construction of the Financial City, Cotonou’s Cultural and Creative Quarter, and multiple rehabilitation projects for detention facilities across the country.

Special Programme for Agricultural Intensification

The Council adopted the Special Programme for the Intensification of Vegetable and Cereal Production in response to climate-induced production shortfalls and uncontrolled exports that have driven up prices.

With an initial allocation of 10 billion FCFA, the programme aims to enhance agricultural productivity and ensure food availability and affordability.

Key components include:

• Installation of controlled-environment farming infrastructure and small-scale irrigation systems.
• Provision of high-yield and climate-resistant seeds, pesticides, fertilizers, and biostimulants.
• Adoption of sustainable farming practices, including integrated water resource management, crop rotation, and soil fertility management.
• Strengthening agricultural mechanization and post-harvest storage facilities.

Accompanying these measures, the programme will provide targeted agricultural advice and professional training to farmers, ensuring the adoption of best practices.

Individual Measures

Several key appointments were made, including members of the High Authority for Audiovisual and Communication and leadership positions within the Ministry of Health.

High Authority for Audiovisual and Communication

• Roukiatou BIO FAI
• Edouard LOKO
• Mohamed BARE
• Tossou Marcellin AHONOUKOUN
• Ahokanou Fernand GBAGUIDI
• N’tcha Gérard N’DAH
• Armand Godonou HOUNSOU (Audiovisual)
• Basile TCHIBOZO (Print Media)
• Lionel Astérix Todjié GBEGONNOUDE (Telecommunications)

Edouard LOKO was named President of the Institution.

Ministry of Health

• Director General of the International Hospital Center of Calavi: Karine ISTIN
• Deputy Director General of the International Hospital Center of Calavi: Florence Angélique Bendi DJETTA

These measures reflect the government’s commitment to fostering development across various sectors, ensuring sustainable growth, and enhancing the well-being of its citizens.