The commune of Avrankou in Benin recently organized a Civic Day for Fiscal Civism, aiming to promote tax payment and boost local resources. The event, held on November 11, 2026, was attended by local authorities, technical and financial partners, taxpayers, and residents. The initiative was undertaken by the commune's administration, with support from the ReFORME project by GIZ and co-financing from the European Union.
The event's opening ceremony featured speeches from local officials, highlighting the importance of tax revenue in financing local infrastructure and services. Louis DÈGBOGBAHOUN, First Deputy Mayor, emphasized that paying taxes is a civic duty and a collective responsibility. Representatives from the ReFORME project and local authorities also praised the commune's efforts in promoting good governance and local development.
The commune's progress in generating its own revenue was presented during the event. According to the Director of Administrative and Financial Affairs, M'po Philippe OWA, Avrankou's own revenue increased from approximately 369 million FCFA in 2021 to 526 million FCFA in 2023. However, the revenue declined to 405 million FCFA in 2024 and 387 million FCFA in 2025, underscoring the need to expand taxpayer mobilization.
To address this challenge, officials encouraged participants to spread awareness about the importance of tax payment. SOKPIN, Head of Internal Affairs at the commune, invited attendees to relay the message to the population. The event also provided an opportunity for citizens to engage in direct discussions, express their concerns, and receive clarification on local taxation mechanisms.
The commune's efforts to recognize and reward top contributors were also highlighted during the event. Several individuals, including Mayor Gabriel Sèna GANHOUTODÉ and Denis GBESSEMEHLAN, President of the Economic and Financial Affairs Commission, were honored for their contributions to the commune's resources. The event concluded with a call to action, urging residents to fulfill their tax obligations.
The Civic Day for Fiscal Civism is part of a broader digital campaign, "Civisme fiscal à Avrankou," aimed at promoting tax awareness and compliance in the commune. By engaging citizens and stakeholders, the commune seeks to foster a culture of tax payment and enhance its financial capacity to deliver essential services and infrastructure.
The event demonstrated the commune's commitment to transparent governance and citizen engagement. By showcasing its progress and challenges, Avrankou's administration aims to build trust and cooperation with its residents, ultimately contributing to the commune's development and growth.
Key points
- The commune's own revenue increased from 369 million FCFA in 2021 to 526 million FCFA in 2023 but declined in 2024 and 2025.
