Benin's Green Spaces Expand to 100 Hectares

The Benin government has made significant strides in expanding its green spaces, with the area of vegetated land increasing from nearly 40 hectares to over 100 hectares in just four years. This development was announced by Minister of Living Environment and Transportation, Georges Alé, at the opening of the first edition of the 2026 Green Day on November 13, 2026. The expansion has led to the creation of more than 33,000 direct jobs in the sector.

The growth of the green space sector has also led to the establishment of nearly 900 companies and over 2,000 nurseries across the country. These entities are involved in various aspects of the industry, including plant production, supply of plants, and the implementation and maintenance of green spaces. Minister Alé emphasized that this development presents opportunities for young people and possibilities for investment, contributing to the structuring of a green economy.

The green spaces in Benin currently utilize 136 plant species, which is considered an asset for the resilience of landscaped areas. However, Minister Alé recommended prioritizing species adapted to local conditions, such as soil and climate, to ensure the long-term sustainability of these spaces. He stressed that a resilient landscape is not uniform and that valuing local species is crucial.

The maintenance of these green spaces requires significant financial resources, with approximately 1 billion FCFA allocated annually for this purpose. Additionally, around 82,000 cubic meters of water are mobilized each year for irrigation. According to Olga Dagnon, Director-General of the National Landscape Agency (ANAP), the survival rate of planted trees stands at 83%, although the agency aims for a 100% survival rate.

The expansion of green spaces in Benin is part of a broader effort to promote environmental sustainability and address climate change. The government has been working to increase the country's green cover and mitigate the effects of climate change. The Green Day event aims to raise awareness about the importance of green spaces and promote environmental conservation.

The growth of the green space sector in Benin has also had positive economic impacts, with investments in the sector contributing to the country's economic development. The sector has attracted significant attention from stakeholders, including government agencies, private companies, and individuals. Minister Alé emphasized the need for continued investment in the sector to ensure its long-term sustainability.

The Benin government's efforts to expand green spaces are expected to have long-term benefits for the environment, economy, and society as a whole. The increase in green spaces will help mitigate the effects of climate change, improve air quality, and provide recreational areas for citizens. As the country continues to urbanize, the importance of green spaces will only continue to grow.

Key points

• Over 33,000 jobs have been created in the green space sector in Benin.
• The area of green spaces in Benin has increased from 40 to 100 hectares in four years.
• The Benin government has invested around 1 billion FCFA in maintaining the country's green spaces.