The government of Benin has appointed Malick Séibou Gomina as the country's new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Russian Federation and nine other countries. This move aims to strengthen Benin's diplomatic presence in Eastern Europe. Gomina's appointment was announced during a Council of Ministers meeting on November 4, 2026. He succeeds André Okounlola Biaou, whose diplomatic mission in Moscow recently concluded.
Malick Gomina, born on February 1, 1973, in Djougou, Benin, has a diverse background in media, politics, and management. Before entering politics, he worked as a journalist and later served as the President of the National Council of the Press and Audiovisual Patrons of Benin (CNPA-Bénin). Gomina was elected as the mayor of Djougou on June 8, 2020, and subsequently became a deputy in the 13th electoral constituency under the Bloc Républicain (BR) party.
Gomina holds a doctoral degree in Environmental Communication from the University of Abomey-Calavi, obtained in 2016 with a very honorable mention. He also completed a Global Executive Master in Strategic Unit Management at HEC Paris. His academic and professional background makes him well-suited for his new role as ambassador. Gomina's mission will involve strengthening bilateral relations with Russia and the nine other countries under his jurisdiction.
The nine countries under Gomina's diplomatic jurisdiction have not been specified, but his appointment is seen as a strategic move to expand Benin's international presence. This development comes after the 3rd Russia-Africa Summit, held in Moscow on October 28-29, 2026, where Benin's Vice-President Mariam Chabi Talata Zimé represented the country. Gomina's priority will be to implement the agreements made during the summit.
Outgoing Ambassador André Okounlola Biaou was received by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Guéorgui Borissenko on November 3, 2026, for a working session to conclude his mission. Biaou had been serving in Moscow since September 2021. The handover of responsibilities to Gomina marks a new chapter in Benin's diplomatic relations with Russia and other countries in the region.
Benin's President Romuald Wadagni has entrusted Gomina with the responsibility of representing the country's interests abroad. As ambassador, Gomina will play a crucial role in promoting Benin's voice and interests internationally. His experience in politics, media, and management is expected to serve him well in this new role.
The appointment of Malick Gomina as ambassador to Russia and nine other countries reflects Benin's efforts to diversify its partnerships and strengthen its international presence. Gomina's mission will focus on building on the outcomes of the Russia-Africa Summit and fostering cooperation between Benin and its new diplomatic partners.
Key points
- Malick Gomina appointed as Benin's ambassador to Russia and nine other countries.
- Gomina's jurisdiction will include strengthening bilateral relations with Russia and other countries.
- The appointment aims to enhance Benin's diplomatic representation in Eastern Europe.
