The President of Benin's High Authority for Audiovisual and Communication (Haac), Edouard Loko, met with the new leadership of the National Council of Press and Audiovisual Patrons of Benin (Cnpa-Bénin) on October 7, 2026. The Cnpa-Bénin, led by President Clément Adéoti Adéchian, was elected on September 25, 2026. The meeting aimed to establish a connection between the two institutions and discuss key issues in the media sector.
The discussions focused on potential collaboration between Haac and Cnpa-Bénin, as well as challenges facing the media sector. Adéchian stated that the meeting allowed them to introduce themselves to Loko and lay the groundwork for future cooperation. He noted that while the foundations were laid, in-depth discussions would occur later. The Cnpa-Bénin leadership also expressed gratitude for Haac's efforts in renovating the Maison des médias.
Adéchian praised Loko's efforts in securing state funding for the Maison des médias renovation, which had been lacking for ten years. However, he emphasized that more work is needed to make the building fully operational. The goal is to equip the Maison des médias and turn it into a hub for Benin's press. This includes providing necessary equipment and creating a welcoming space for media professionals.
Another key topic discussed was the revival of state aid to the press, which has been suspended for several years. Adéchian stressed the need for the media sector to present new proposals and reassure authorities about the management of this aid. He suggested that new ideas and mechanisms could help relaunch state support for the press.
Adéchian proposed that the revival of state aid could be based on federating and structuring projects benefiting the entire media sector. This approach would require negotiations and new proposals to convince authorities. The media sector must demonstrate its ability to manage aid effectively and transparently.
Following the meeting with Cnpa-Bénin, Loko received Algerian Ambassador Ammar Hadja and Canadian Ambassador Evelyne Dabiré. The discussions with these diplomats focused on potential collaboration and areas of interest for the media sector. These meetings highlight Haac's efforts to engage with various stakeholders and strengthen partnerships.
The series of meetings demonstrates Haac's commitment to collaboration and dialogue with key players in Benin's media landscape. By engaging with press leaders and diplomatic partners, Haac aims to address challenges and promote a thriving media sector. The outcomes of these discussions will likely shape the future of media regulation and support in Benin.
Key points
- Haac President Edouard Loko met with Cnpa-Bénin leaders to discuss media sector collaboration and challenges.
- The meetings also covered the renovation of the Maison des médias and potential revival of state aid to the press.
- Haac engaged with diplomatic partners, including Algerian and Canadian ambassadors, to explore areas of cooperation.
