The Cotonou municipality has adopted its 2027 budget, totaling 72.4 billion CFA francs, with a significant increase in investment spending. The budget was approved during the fourth ordinary session of the municipal council, led by Mayor Luc Gnacadja, which concluded on November 2, 2026. The new budget reflects the municipality's ambition to invest in various projects and services.
According to the municipal council's communiqué, the 2027 budget allocates over 74% of its resources to investments, marking a 47.54% increase in investment spending. This strategic focus aims to drive growth and development in the municipality. The budget also reveals a 6.44% decrease in operating expenses, demonstrating a shift in priorities.
Mayor Luc Gnacadja emphasized that the 2027 budget is the first of the 2026-2033 term and represents a significant step towards achieving the municipal council's goals. The budget is based on the needs collected during the mayor's tour of the city's districts, ensuring that it addresses the concerns of local residents.
Before its implementation, the budget has been submitted to the prefecture for approval by the prefect of the Littoral department. The municipal council also approved several other decisions during the session, including the activity report of Mayor Luc Gnacadja for the third quarter.
The council approved the reports of the municipality's permanent commissions and the supervision council. Additionally, they adopted the manual of budgetary and accounting procedures for local authorities in Benin. The mayor presented the final version of the report from the General Inspection of Finance (IGF), which highlighted weaknesses in revenue management and public domain occupation.
The IGF report, covering the period from January 2021 to April 2026, made 48 recommendations to address the identified weaknesses. The municipal council took note of the report's findings and authorized the mayor to take necessary measures to implement and monitor the recommendations. This move aims to improve the municipality's financial management and transparency.
The adoption of the 2027 budget and the implementation of the IGF's recommendations are expected to have a positive impact on the municipality's development and service delivery. The municipal council's efforts to prioritize investments and improve financial management will be closely watched by local residents and stakeholders.
Key points
- The 2027 budget of Cotonou municipality is 72.4 billion CFA francs, with over 74% allocated to investments.
- The budget marks a 47.54% increase in investment spending and a 6.44% decrease in operating expenses.
- The municipal council has authorized the mayor to implement 48 recommendations from the General Inspection of Finance to improve financial management.
