On October 4, 2026, Jeanne Adanbiokou Akakpo, Minister Counsellor for Infrastructure and Living Environment and coordinator of the College of Minister Counsellors, appeared on Canal3 Bénin's "Zone Franche" program. She presented the government's vision for Bénin's future, centered on the slogan "Plus loin, Ensemble" (Further, Together). This vision builds on the past decade's reforms, aiming to accelerate economic and social transformation.
According to Akakpo, the "Plus loin, Ensemble" program is not a new beginning, but rather a continuation of previous efforts. It leverages existing economic, infrastructural, and institutional achievements as a springboard for further development. She cited significant progress, including a growth rate that rose from around 3% in 2016 to over 8% in 2025, as well as investments in agriculture, tourism, transportation, and infrastructure.
Akakpo emphasized that the program's goal is to consolidate gains while producing more tangible effects in citizens' daily lives. The government aims to move beyond macroeconomic indicators, focusing on improving living conditions. She highlighted initiatives such as emergency care without prior payment, free student transportation, and free schooling for girls as examples of this approach.
The role of the College of Minister Counsellors was also clarified. Akakpo explained that they do not replace sectoral ministers, but rather provide strategic advice to the President, monitor and evaluate major reforms and projects, and gather feedback from the population. This clarification aims to enhance the device's effectiveness and bring decision-making closer to policy implementation.
Akakpo's message on Canal 3 Bénin emphasized preserving the current dynamic, accelerating transformation, and making its effects more tangible for the population. The "Plus loin, Ensemble" program represents a new stage in Bénin's development, where economic performance must be converted into social progress, territorial balance, and improved daily life.
The government's approach has been shaped by significant investments in various sectors. Akakpo mentioned that these efforts have contributed to a notable increase in the country's growth rate. The challenge now is to ensure that this growth translates into concrete improvements in citizens' lives.
Ultimately, the "Plus loin, Ensemble" program seeks to strike a balance between economic performance, social progress, and territorial development. By building on past achievements and addressing current challenges, the government aims to create a more prosperous and equitable society for all Béninese citizens.
Key points
- The government of Bénin is focusing on consolidating gains and producing tangible effects in citizens' daily lives.
- The "Plus loin, Ensemble" program aims to accelerate economic and social transformation while building on past achievements.
- The College of Minister Counsellors plays a crucial role in advising the President, monitoring reforms, and gathering feedback from the population.
