On September 19, 2026, Benin's Minister of State and Government Spokesperson, Wilfried Léandre Houngbédji, met with various socio-professional groups in Porto-Novo to explain and justify the social measures implemented by President Romuald Wadagni. The meeting, held at the administrative city in the presence of local authorities, aimed to address concerns and provide clarity on the government's initiatives. Houngbédji engaged with women market vendors, taxi-moto drivers, artisans, and other groups.
The event was attended by Prefect Marie Akpotrossou, Departmental Director of Social Affairs of Ouémé, Dr. Solange Odjo Ahlonsou, President of the Council of Elders of Porto-Novo, Karim Urbain da Silva, and Mayor Rachadou Toukourou, among other dignitaries. Houngbédji provided straightforward answers to the concerns raised by the various groups, addressing issues such as the impact of new technologies on artisans and the challenges faced by women market vendors.
Artisans, particularly mechanics, expressed difficulties in adapting to new technologies, citing the example of Chinese vehicles. Houngbédji directed them to the Ouémé Departmental Chamber of Trades, which is responsible for providing support and training. He assured that the government is committed to addressing the concerns of Benin's artisans. The minister's responses were well-received by the audience, who appreciated his candor.
Women market vendors raised concerns about unfair competition from street vendors and high rental costs for their market stalls. They called for a reduction in rental fees. The Mayor of Porto-Novo, Rachadou Toukourou, publicly committed to helping them find solutions to their problems. The discussions highlighted the need for collaboration between local authorities and market vendors to address these challenges.
Participants acknowledged that Porto-Novo has undergone significant modernization over the past decade. The city's development was attributed to the government's efforts to improve infrastructure and services. Houngbédji's explanations helped alleviate concerns, and attendees expressed satisfaction with the responses they received.
The meeting concluded with Prefect Marie Akpotrossou urging attendees to continue supporting President Romuald Wadagni's government and its social measures. The event demonstrated the government's commitment to engaging with citizens and addressing their concerns. By providing clear explanations and solutions, Houngbédji helped build trust and confidence in the government's initiatives.
The social measures implemented by President Wadagni's government aim to improve the lives of Benin's citizens, particularly vulnerable groups such as artisans and market vendors. The government's efforts to address concerns and provide support demonstrate its commitment to promoting economic growth and social development. Key stakeholders, including local authorities and citizens, must continue to work together to achieve these goals.
Key points
- The Benin government's social measures aim to address concerns of various socio-professional groups.
- Minister Wilfried Léandre Houngbédji provided clear explanations and solutions to concerns raised by groups in Porto-Novo.
- The government's efforts focus on promoting economic growth and social development in Benin.
