The National Landscape Agency (ANAP) of Benin is organizing the country's first Green Day event on November 13-14, 2026, at the Palais des Congrès in Cotonou. This two-day gathering aims to bring together public sector actors, industry professionals, academics, and the general public to discuss the role of landscape in Benin's development. The event is sponsored by the Ministry of Living Environment and Transportation, responsible for Sustainable Development.
The Green Day event seeks to address crucial questions regarding the place of landscape in territorial planning and development policies in Benin. According to ANAP, the event will facilitate discussions on the challenges related to the design, implementation, and management of landscape spaces. The meeting will draw participation from various institutions, local authorities, businesses, plant professionals, academics, students, and citizens.
The importance of integrating landscape into construction projects, road infrastructure, and urban planning will be a key focus area for discussions during the event. ANAP emphasizes that landscape goes beyond mere urban aesthetics, playing a critical role in water and soil management, territorial adaptation, quality of life, and economic activity development. This holistic approach is encapsulated in the event's theme: "We do not just plant; we design a system."
The two-day program includes the Green Village, an exhibition space covering nearly 10,000 square meters on the Palais des Congrès esplanade. The village will host nurserymen, florists, businesses, and other plant professionals, offering visitors a chance to discover various plant and flower species, engage with exhibitors, and make purchases.
The event also caters to young people and families, with educational institutions and schools presenting projects and solutions related to landscape. Scheduled activities include gardening workshops, painting sessions, awareness-raising exercises, storytelling, and sketch performances. In the evenings, the Sunset Village and Green Social will provide musical and artistic entertainment, along with dining options.
One of the key attractions of the Green Day event is that access to the main event, Green Village, and public activities is free of charge. This accessibility is expected to encourage broad participation from various segments of the population. By fostering dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders, ANAP aims to promote a more integrated approach to landscape management and sustainable development in Benin.
As Benin prepares to host this inaugural Green Day event, stakeholders are optimistic about the potential for enhanced cooperation and knowledge sharing in the realm of landscape development. With its comprehensive program and inclusive approach, the event is poised to set a significant precedent for future initiatives focused on sustainable development and environmental stewardship in the country.
Key points
- The Green Day event will take place on November 13-14, 2026, at Cotonou's Palais des Congrès.
- The event aims to discuss the role of landscape in Benin's development and promote sustainable practices.
- Access to the event, Green Village, and public activities is free of charge.
