The government of Benin has taken a significant step towards modernizing its administration by introducing artificial intelligence (AI) advisors across various ministries. This move was revealed during the Council of Ministers meeting on November 4, 2026, marking a shift in the country's approach to governance. The AI advisors, known as Conseillers techniques à l'intelligence artificielle (CT/IA), will be deployed to almost all ministerial departments to provide strategic support in decision-making.
The introduction of AI advisors is part of a broader effort to leverage technology in governance. Rather than confining AI to a single ministry, the Benin government has opted for a transversal approach, integrating AI into various sectors such as diplomacy, internal security, education, and energy. The role of these AI advisors will be to analyze security flows, anticipate climate crises, optimize budget allocations for education, and model commercial policies.
To ensure that the AI system is aligned with the country's cultural and sociological context, the government has also launched the deployment of "Innobox" innovation centers. These centers, starting with pilot phases in Parakou and Porto-Novo, will serve as hubs for collecting data in local languages. By creating its own digital raw materials, the government aims to prevent AI decisions from being influenced by foreign biases.
The Benin government has taken steps to ensure that the AI system is developed and used responsibly. A technical advisor for "responsible and inclusive artificial intelligence" has been appointed to the Ministry of Digital Transformation. This move underscores the government's commitment to harnessing AI for the benefit of all citizens while respecting ethical considerations.
The integration of AI into governance is expected to have a significant impact on decision-making processes in Benin. By providing data-driven insights, AI advisors will enable policymakers to make more informed decisions. The government believes that this approach will help anticipate and respond to challenges more effectively.
The use of AI in governance is part of a broader effort to drive innovation and development in Benin. The government has been promoting initiatives aimed at harnessing technology to drive economic growth and improve the quality of life for citizens. The introduction of AI advisors is seen as a key component of this strategy.
As Benin continues to roll out its AI strategy, the government faces the challenge of ensuring that the technology is used effectively and responsibly. The success of this initiative will depend on the government's ability to balance the benefits of AI with the need to protect citizens' rights and interests.
Key points
- The Benin government has introduced AI advisors across various ministries to enhance decision-making and modernize administration.
- The AI advisors will be used to analyze security flows, anticipate climate crises, and optimize budget allocations.
- The government has taken steps to ensure that the AI system is developed and used responsibly, including the appointment of a technical advisor for "responsible and inclusive artificial intelligence".
