The government of Luxembourg has pledged 15 million euros, equivalent to over 9.8 billion FCFA, to support the development of skills in port and logistics professions in Benin. This agreement was reached in New York on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, during the third Mixed Commission on cooperation between the two countries. The funds will be used for the "CAP-PORT: Skills and Professionalization for Port and Logistics Professions" project.
The project aims to create a more tailored training offer that meets the needs of the sector and facilitates access to employment for those seeking a career in port and logistics. The agreement was signed by Benin's Minister of Economy and Finance, Hugues Oscar Lokossou, and Luxembourg's delegation, led by Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Xavier Bettel, and the Minister of Cooperation and Humanitarian Action.
The CAP-PORT project targets several beneficiary categories, including young people and women aged 18 to 35 seeking employment, as well as low-skilled individuals and workers already in the sector who wish to update or enhance their skills. The training provided will cover areas directly related to port and logistics activities, such as operating and maintaining handling equipment and vehicles, safety, documentary compliance, and using digital systems.
The goal of this initiative is to promote the development of skills within the port ecosystem and better prepare beneficiaries for the realities and demands of these professions. The third Mixed Commission on cooperation also allowed Benin and Luxembourg to review their partnership, with an active portfolio of approximately 95 million euros.
During the commission, both parties identified new areas to strengthen their relations, including cutting-edge technologies, security, and artificial intelligence. This technology is presented as a strategic and transversal axis to support Benin's development. The discussions also focused on the next Indicative Cooperation Program (PIC), which aims to ensure better alignment with Benin's new Government Action Program.
The PIC is expected to enhance the correspondence between Luxembourg's cooperation and Benin's development and transformation priorities. The cooperation between Benin and Luxembourg has been ongoing, with a focus on various sectors. This new project is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of many Beninese people.
The implementation of the CAP-PORT project is expected to commence soon, with the training programs being designed to meet the specific needs of the port and logistics sector in Benin. This initiative is a significant step towards improving the skills and employability of young people and women in the country.
Key points
- Luxembourg commits 15 million euros to support port and logistics training in Benin.
- The project targets young people, women, and low-skilled individuals seeking employment or career advancement in port and logistics.
- The initiative aims to promote skills development and improve employability in the port ecosystem.
