The national tour of Bénin's government spokesperson, Wilfried Léandre Houngbédji, concluded in Porto-Novo on September 19. The tour, which began on September 9, aimed to bring public action closer to citizens, present recent social measures, and gather population concerns. Houngbédji engaged directly with the populations of Porto-Novo and surrounding areas, discussing various topics in a strongly attended gathering.
During the meeting, Houngbédji presented key social measures implemented by the government in sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, social protection, and transportation. He highlighted efforts in the education sector, particularly the expansion of school canteens, now covering nearly 100% of schools in Porto-Novo. The number of schools benefiting from this program has increased from 14 to 86, providing meals to all concerned children.
The government spokesperson also discussed the free education policy for girls from primary to secondary school, aiming to encourage parents to keep girls in school and provide them with equal opportunities for success. The issue of early and forced marriages was also addressed, with Houngbédji emphasizing the need to protect girls and allow them to pursue their education.
In the higher education sector, Houngbédji announced the deployment of 63 new buses to enhance student transportation. This measure complements the revaluation of allocations and modernization of welcome infrastructures. He also discussed measures for people with disabilities, including free education for 5,000 students, automatic university scholarships, and subsidies for equipment to improve autonomy.
Houngbédji explained that the government has a dedicated fund for people with disabilities, which has been doubled to 400 million FCFA per year. The fund aims to support people with disabilities who are struggling to make a living, particularly those who have learned a trade or attended school. He emphasized the social significance of these measures, stating that they demonstrate the government's commitment to all its citizens.
The meeting also addressed healthcare concerns, with Houngbédji explaining the "soigner d'abord et payer ensuite" (treat first and pay later) mechanism for emergency care. This measure aims to prevent financial constraints from hindering the treatment of patients in life-threatening situations. The spokesperson answered questions from the public, addressing concerns on issues such as dialysis care and market women's problems.
The gathering, attended by Prefect Marie Akpotrossou and Mayor Rachadou Toukourou, provided an opportunity for the population to engage directly with the government spokesperson. Houngbédji's responses gave participants a better understanding of the government's actions and plans. The national tour has enabled the government to engage with citizens and address their concerns, promoting a closer relationship between public authorities and the population.
Key points
- Wilfried Léandre Houngbédji concludes his national tour in Porto-Novo, highlighting social measures and addressing local concerns.
- The government has implemented measures to support education, healthcare, and social protection, including free education for girls and people with disabilities.
- Houngbédji emphasizes the government's commitment to all its citizens, including those with disabilities, and its efforts to promote equal opportunities and social inclusion.
