This is the end of our live coverage of the 2026 Benin presidential election. Result is expected to be announced by authorities early in the week. Follow all Global South World Channels for more updates.

19:00 GMT: Incumbent Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni has emerged as the favourite to win the 2026 elections, positioning him to be the heir to Patrice Talon, who has led the West African country for the past decade.

18:00 GMT:  Benin’s civil society electoral platform says its observers recorded several irregularities during Sunday’s April 12, 2026 presidential election, according to findings presented in Cotonou by Étienne Adossou, a retired army general and member of the platform’s electoral situation room. The platform said it deployed 1,771 observers nationwide, including 1,200 stationed at polling centres and 571 on mobile assignments. Its initial assessment, completed at 10:00 a.m., was based on observations from 1,200 polling stations. Among the incidents reported were cases of ballot boxes allegedly containing ballots before the official start of voting, particularly in parts of the Atlantic and Zou regions.

At one polling station in Sèmè-Kpodji, observers said more than 120 ballots were found in the box before 6:45 a.m., despite no matching record of voters on the electoral register. Similar reports were also recorded elsewhere. The platform also cited alleged cases of multiple voting in some localities in the Couffo and Mono regions.

In all, it said 109 alerts were logged and sent to the electoral situation room’s response unit, most of them linked to early openings of polling stations and other voting-day anomalies. Despite the reported incidents, the platform said several aspects of the process generally complied with electoral rules. It noted, for instance, that all three polling officials were present in 98.38 percent of the polling stations observed.

16:00 GMT:  Polling stations across the country closed at 4:00 p.m.

At the CEG Le Littoral polling centre in Cotonou’s 1st district, ballot counting began in most polling stations soon after the close of polls.

At Polling Station 6, officials of the CENA began counting ballots at 4:28 p.m., in the presence of representatives of the two tickets contesting Sunday’s presidential election.

Overall, the vote in Cotonou was conducted in a calm and peaceful atmosphere.

12:00 GMT : Opposition candidate Paul Hounkpe casts his ballot.

11:30 GMT:  Foreign Minister Olushegun Adjadi Bakari arrived at 11:35 a.m. to cast his ballot at polling station 1. Speaking to reporters after voting, Bakari said , “I have just fulfilled my civic duty. I think it is a huge opportunity for us to make the right choice for our country. It is this choice that will determine the direction of our country over the next seven years. So it is with a very strong sense of duty that I came here today to express my civic duty.”

11:00 GMT:  Aurélie Adam Soule Zoumarou, Benin’s Minister of Digital Economy, said she had fulfilled her civic duty by voting at the Kobi primary school in the Gourou district of Nikki. “I have carried out my civic duty today by voting,” she said , urging all eligible citizens to turn out and exercise their fundamental right to vote.

10:30 GMT: Former minister Christine Adjokè Ouinsavi cast her ballot on Sunday at the Hangar public square polling centre in Adakplamè, in the commune of Kétou. Speaking after voting, she said she was pleased to have fulfilled her civic duty in a calm atmosphere. “I feel very satisfied to have carried out this act, which honours me as a citizen, and to have done so in a peaceful environment,” she said.

10:30 GMT: Vice President Mariam Chabi Talata cast her ballot on Sunday morning at the Nabissou public primary school in the Guèma district of Parakou. She urged Beninese voters to recognise the power of the ballot, saying, “Each Beninese must understand that their vote can help solve their everyday problems.” Stressing the importance of civic participation, she added that “the vote is the channel through which the citizen speaks to leaders and expresses expectations.”

10:00 GMT: President Patrice Talon and First Lady Claudine Talon have arrived at polling centre 10078, Charles Guillot School in Zongo Nima, Cotonou, to cast their ballots in Benin’s presidential election.

9:30 GMT: Benin’s Economy and Finance Minister, Romuald Wadagni, one of the presidential candidates, has cast his vote at the Agonvè polling centre in Lokossa.

9:30 GMT: Turnout was strong from the early hours in Wassa, where voting began with a particularly large crowd, including many members of the Celestial Christian community. Polling station officer Houdé Mardite said told La Nouvelle Tribune that more than 200 of the 332 registered voters had already cast their ballots. By 9:40 a.m., turnout had eased slightly, though voters were still arriving steadily.

8:30 GMT: Slight delays at the Ganmè 1 and Ganmè 2 polling stations did little to unsettle voters, with polling beginning at 7:22 a.m. after minor logistical adjustments. Despite the late start, the atmosphere remained calm and orderly.

08:00 GMT:  Voting began relatively calmly at the Zanzoun Primary School polling station, although station 1 opened slightly late at 7:10 a.m. because of delays linked to the installation of staff from the National Autonomous Electoral Commission (CENA).

07:30 GMT: Early voters in Parakou described the voting process as calm and straightforward. Alassane Idrissou, the first registered voter at his polling station, said he arrived as soon as it opened so he could cast his ballot before returning to his farm. “I am proud to be the first to vote this morning. Everything is going well, peacefully. I encourage all citizens to turn out in large numbers to vote, in peace,” he said.

07:00 GMT:  Voting in Benin’s 2026 presidential election got under way on Sunday, April 12, with polling stations opening across the country. In Abomey-Calavi, one of the country’s biggest electoral districts, the process started smoothly, with most polling centres opening on schedule at 7 a.m. At the Kpanrou polling station, located at EPP Centre, voting materials and staff were in place early, allowing all stations to open at the same time. A similar situation was reported in Zinvié, another major district in Abomey-Calavi .

Key issues 

One of the central issues is whether the next leader can sustain the country’s economic growth. Benin’s economy  expanded  by around 7% in 2025, driven by investments in agriculture, trade and infrastructure. However, many citizens say the benefits have not been evenly shared, with poverty persisting in rural and northern regions.

Security  is another major concern, particularly in the north, where attacks by armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State have intensified. The region has seen deadly assaults on military posts, and tensions remain high following a failed coup attempt in December.

The election is also being watched for its implications on democracy. President Patrice Talon’s government has faced criticism from opposition groups and rights organisations over  restrictions  on protests, arrests of critics and the exclusion of opposition parties from parliament. Read more .

Who are the candidates?

Wadagni, 49, a former Deloitte executive, has campaigned on continuity, highlighting economic gains under Talon’s leadership. “I had the honour of managing one of your most precious assets: your money,” he told supporters during the campaign, pledging to govern with the same “seriousness and dedication.” He has promised to expand healthcare and build on  infrastructure  and economic reforms.

His opponent, Paul Hounkpe, 56, represents the Cowry Forces for an Emerging Benin (FCBE). A former teacher and culture minister, he has positioned himself as a moderate alternative, promising to lower the cost of  living  and secure the release of political detainees.

The main opposition party, the Democrats, is absent from the race after failing to secure the required backing to field a candidate, leaving Hounkpe as the only challenger. Read more .

Elections background

Benin’s president is elected through a two-round voting system and now serves a seven-year term following a 2025 constitutional amendment.

If no candidate wins more than half of the votes in the first round, the top two candidates face each other in a run-off held within 15 days. Presidents may serve a maximum of two terms, even if those terms are not consecutive.

Under changes introduced in 2019, every presidential candidate must run with a vice-presidential partner. The vice president serves the same seven-year term and is expected to complete the president’s tenure if the office becomes vacant.

To qualify, candidates must be Beninese citizens, either by birth or by having lived in the country for at least 10 years, and must be between 40 and 70 years old. They must also be of “good character and great probity”, enjoy full civil and political rights, pass physical and mental assessments, and secure nominations from at least 10% of all MPs and mayors.

Security is another major concern, particularly in the north, where attacks by armed groups linked to al-Qaeda and the Islamic State have intensified. The region has seen deadly assaults on military posts, and tensions remain high following a failed coup attempt in December.

The election is also being watched for its implications on democracy. President Patrice Talon’s government has faced criticism from opposition groups and rights organisations over restrictions on protests, arrests of critics and the exclusion of opposition parties from parliament.

With the ruling coalition controlling all seats in the National Assembly and the main opposition absent from the ballot, there is fear of a shrinking political space . The ruling government, however, argues that stability is needed to sustain economic gains and address security threats.

Wadagni, 49, a former Deloitte executive, has campaigned on continuity, highlighting economic gains under Talon’s leadership. “I had the honour of managing one of your most precious assets: your money,” he told supporters during the campaign, pledging to govern with the same “seriousness and dedication.” He has promised to expand healthcare and build on infrastructure and economic reforms.

His opponent, Paul Hounkpe, 56, represents the Cowry Forces for an Emerging Benin (FCBE). A former teacher and culture minister, he has positioned himself as a moderate alternative, promising to lower the cost of living and secure the release of political detainees.

The main opposition party, the Democrats, is absent from the race after failing to secure the required backing to field a candidate, leaving Hounkpe as the only challenger.

About eight million registered voters are eligible to cast ballots. A candidate must secure more than 50% of the vote to win outright, or a run-off will be held on May 10.

High-ranking military officials responsible for counterterrorism operations from both countries met in Cotonou on 27 February to discuss future collaboration. 

The proposed plan includes coordinated border patrols, joint military operations, intelligence sharing and increased monitoring of cross-border movement. Further discussions on the measures are expected later in March.

According to Héni Nsaibia, senior West Africa analyst at the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data group (ACLED), the border area linking Benin, Niger and Nigeria has emerged as a new focus of jihadist activity since 2025.

“Due to very weak border security and coordination between concerned states, seeing Benin and Nigeria reinforcing their cooperation is particularly relevant,” he told RFI .

According to his research for ACLED, incidents involving jihadist groups in Benin’s Alibori and Borgou departments, Dosso in Niger, and Nigeria’s Sokoto, Kebbi, Niger and Kwara states increased by 86% between 2024 and 2025. Deaths linked to these incidents rose by 262% during the same period.

Jihadist groups Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and the Islamic State in the Sahel have historically operated mainly in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. However, their activities are increasingly spreading into West Africa’s coastal states.

Founded in Mali in 2017, JNIM has become the main jihadist group in the central Sahel. Since 2019, the al-Qaeda affiliate has also carried out attacks in countries along the Gulf of Guinea, including Côte d’Ivoire, Benin and Togo.

Nsaibia noted that last year, JNIM also claimed responsibility for an attack on Nigerian territory for the first time.

He said the increase in violence can be attributed to “limited state presence” and weakened regional cooperation after Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger withdrew from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) following military coups in the three countries.

Security officials say cross-border cooperation will be essential to address the threat.

Senior advisor to Nigeria's President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Sunday Dare, said, because of "the porosity of the borders, we've had armed trafficking, we've had criminal gangs, we've had Boko Haram, we've had ISIS and other groups."

Dare said the Nigerian president is committed to strengthening relations with Benin and other neighbouring countries to support both security and economic cooperation.

“Just last month, he opened the borders to not just Benin, but also Niger, and that has improved relations,” Dare said.

Another meeting is scheduled to take place in Benin before the end of March to advance the draft military memorandum.

Nsaibia added that other countries in the region are also strengthening security cooperation.

“We have also seen in the past weeks that Ghana and Burkina Faso have taken similar steps. From a regional perspective, these borders are most exposed to jihadist violence, and I think it makes sense for these countries to have these types of rapprochement between each other.”

Gunfire and explosions were reported shortly before midnight near the airport, and two security sources described the incident as a “terrorist attack.” Calm was restored by Thursday morning.

The airport area was cordoned off and patrolled, although schools and businesses in Niamey remained open.

Tiani named French President Emmanuel Macron, Benin President Patrice Talon, and Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara as sponsors of the alleged attack. 

He made the statement after visiting an air base and warned that Niger would respond. “We have heard them bark, they should be ready to hear us roar,” he said. Niger state television reported that one of the attackers killed was a French national, but this claim was not backed by evidence.

Security officials told Reuters that an internal alert about a possible attack led to increased security measures around the airport prior to the incident. 

The officials also confirmed that a uranium stockpile, estimated at around 1,000 metric tons, was not affected by the attack. The uranium, stored at the airport since late last year, was previously moved from the Somair mine in Arlit after the Nigerien government took control of the site from the French company Orano.

Two commercial aircraft were damaged during the attack. ASKY Airlines reported minor damage to two of its planes. Air Côte d’Ivoire confirmed that its Airbus A319 sustained damage to the fuselage and right wing. “Its fuselage and right wing” were affected, the airline said, noting that the aircraft could be grounded for an extended period. No injuries were reported.

Tiani also expressed appreciation to Russian troops stationed at the base, thanking them for “defending their sector.” Niger, like neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso, continues to experience violence linked to jihadist groups affiliated with al Qaeda and Islamic State.

Earlier this month, Burkina Faso reported that it had foiled a coup attempt funded by Côte d’Ivoire to destabilise its government and assassinate military leader Captain Ibrahim Traoré.

Former leader Lt Col Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba was arrested after being extradited from Togo, where he had fled to after allegedly masterminding the failed coup plot.

The announcement came just hours after several soldiers reportedly appeared on national television claiming President Patrice Talon had been removed from office, months before the April 2026 presidential election. The group also said they were dissolving all state institutions and appointing Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri as head of a new military committee.

Meanwhile, the French Embassy reported gunfire at Camp Guézo, near the president’s official residence in Cotonou, adding to the uncertainty surrounding Sunday’s events.

What’s at stake?

It was more than a local tragedy when four villagers were killed by armed men in the Ivorian town of Difita, which is close to the Burkina Faso border.  It indicated that the thin border that once divided the states of the Gulf of Guinea from the insurgencies of the Sahel is gradually eroding.  Having not experienced a fatal attack linked to jihadists since 2021 (attribution of the August attack is still being investigated), Côte d’Ivoire is now faced with renewed militant incursions along its northern border.

However, the implications go beyond national borders. There is also an increase in violence and instability in Ghana, Togo, and Benin.  These states work together to create a frontline against the southward movement of organisations such as Islamic State affiliates and Jama’a Nusrat ul-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM).  The risk profile for investors, humanitarian organisations, and international partners is drastically changing as violence approaches ports, commercial centres, and political capitals.

The background

The security situation along West Africa's coast has worsened in recent months.  In 2025, Benin—once thought of as a relatively safe area—saw its deadliest terrorist attack ever.  Twelve people were killed when suspected jihadists ambushed park rangers and security personnel in Pendjari National Park in July.  There is a pattern to this:  In 2023, there were 171 extremist attacks in Benin; since then, the violence has only increased, causing widespread displacement in the country's northern regions.

Lethal incursions have also occurred in Togo.  On May 10-11, eight soldiers were killed when JNIM-affiliated militants stormed a military outpost close to the Burkina Faso border.  The attack demonstrated how militants are undermining local security forces' credibility by testing state capabilities in border areas.  In 2023 alone, Togo saw 14 attacks and 66 fatalities; this trend is expected to continue in 2025.

Ghana, so far spared from major attacks, continues to play an increasingly dangerous role.  According to reports, militants take advantage of porous borders in northern Ghana to resupply, receive medical care, and handle logistics.  Although authorities deny allegations that Ghana is used as a "supply line" for extremists, the country's northern districts are home to more than 15,000 Burkinabe refugees , placing a strain on resources and raising concerns about radicalisation.

On top of all of this is a humanitarian crisis: by early 2025, over 160,000 people had fled the violence in Burkina Faso to neighbouring Ghana, Togo, Côte d’Ivoire, and Benin.  Resentment is growing, while infrastructure and host communities are overburdened.  Political instability is being exacerbated by the humanitarian crisis as Sahelian violence spreads southward.

Comment: coastal state defences under strain

A structural change in regional security is reflected in the southward movement of Sahelian insurgencies.  Extremist organisations are now openly targeting coastal states rather than scouring the borders.  Attacks like Togo's outpost raid and Benin's Pendjari massacre show that militants are looking for both propaganda value and territorial depth.

 Support from international partners is increasing.  Coastal state security forces now receive more funding, training, and intelligence sharing from the US, France, and EU.  However, there are still significant local capacity gaps.  Uneven coordination persists among Benin, Togo, Ghana, and Côte d’Ivoire, and internal politics - especially surrounding elections and governance challenges- run the risk of diverting attention from a collaborative and comprehensive security plan.

For Western governments, the stakes are high. The Gulf of Guinea is a critical trade corridor and investment destination. Similar to the political collapse in the Sahel, a destabilised coastal belt may encourage migration northward, interfere with supply chains, and create an environment conducive to further coups.

Assessment: near- and medium-term projections

Attacks in Benin and Togo's border areas are likely to continue in the near future as militants take advantage of vulnerable borders and overburdened military personnel.  There is a realistic possibility of intermittent incursions into Côte d’Ivoire, though Abidjan will seek to contain violence north of key commercial zones. Although there is a realistic chance of escalation due to the existence of militant logistics networks and refugee pressures, Ghana is still less vulnerable to direct attacks in the short term.

Like central Mali, northern Benin and Togo run the risk of becoming semi-permanent militant operating zones as a result of entrenched violence in the medium term.  Diplomatic and investor confidence may drastically change if Ghana is the target of any significant attack.  A growing security void along its southern flank, increased migration pressure, and heavier humanitarian burdens are all consequences of this trajectory for Europe.  The trajectory of violence indicates that coastal West Africa is entering a new and more dangerous phase of the Sahel conflict, despite increased external support.

Conclusion

The attack in northern Ivory Coast is not an isolated event but a symptom of a broader regional trend: the Sahel insurgency is pushing south, and coastal states are under mounting pressure. Benin and Togo are already suffering, Ghana is under strain, and Côte d’Ivoire is once again vulnerable. The Gulf of Guinea runs the risk of inheriting the Sahel's crisis and becoming a new epicentre of instability if regional governments and their international allies fail to bridge the gap between rhetoric and capability.

This report is compiled by  Eigenrac  is a Dubai-based boutique consultancy specialising in security risk management services, with a global presence and deep understanding of complex business risk environments. Eigenrac acts as a trusted enabler for clients operating in high-risk or demanding settings.

Despite the ongoing closure of land borders between Niger and Benin, oil production has remained steady, with over 14 million barrels transported to date, La Nouvelle Tribune reports. The China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) oversees most of the operation, holding the majority of shipments, while the Nigerien government retains approximately 3.5 million barrels.

However, escalating diplomatic tensions between Niamey and Cotonou threaten to disrupt trade relations. Strained since the July 2023 coup in Niger, ties between the two nations have worsened, with Niger accusing Benin of harboring hostile forces - a claim Benin denies.

Prior to the pipeline’s launch, Niger’s crude oil production was primarily for domestic use, refined at the Zinder facility, which has been in operation since 2011. Now, with direct access to international markets, Niger is reducing its reliance on refined imports and positioning itself as a more prominent oil exporter.

The West African nation produced a record 765,000 tonnes of cotton in 2021, with most exported to Bangladesh and other countries. Efforts are now underway to process more of the fiber domestically.

"Benin is currently the largest cotton producer in Africa," said Letondji Beheton, General Manager of SIPI-BENIN SA. "We now process 40,000 tonnes annually across three integrated textile units. To fully transform our fiber production of 305,000 tonnes, we need about 30 such units," he told the AFP.

The government aims to attract investments to build these facilities within the next five to six years, fostering local manufacturing and job creation.

Agro-economist Nestor Ahoyo Adjovi highlighted the economic ripple effects. "This will create direct and indirect jobs, generate income, and stimulate growth across related services," he said.

While Benin's cotton potential is promising, producers face challenges. "Last year, I harvested 4,400 tonnes, but this season's yield is uncertain," said farmer Mathias Azonnoudo, citing unpredictable factors impacting production.

Between 2017 and 2019 , cotton production in Benin grew by 13.4%, reaching a record 678,000.3 tonnes in the 2018-2019 season, up from 597,573.2 tonnes the previous year. 

The bond will have a 16-year maturity and a 15-year weighted average life. It is expected to be of a "benchmark size," meaning it will meet the standard for large international investments.

Benin’s move comes at a time of strong investor interest in bonds from emerging markets, especially African nations.

“The government wants to take advantage of good market conditions,” Ousseynou Diagne, head of Africa debt capital markets at Societe Generale told Bloomberg .

This bond will be issued just under a year after Benin’s last dollar bond sale.

As part of this plan, Benin is also offering to buy back some of its euro-denominated bonds due in 2032, using a loan from a commercial bank.

This Eurobond will help Benin diversify its funding and strengthen its economy during uncertain times.

One of the tools Interpol uses is called a "notice." These notices are given colour codes to indicate what each notice is supposed to do, there’s the Red and Yellow notices.

A Red Notice is a request to police around the world to find and temporarily arrest someone. This is done while waiting for extradition, surrender, or other legal actions. A Yellow Notice on the other hand is a global alert to police worldwide to alert them to help locate missing persons.

The people on a Red Notice are wanted by a specific country or an international court. It is up to each country to decide if they will arrest the person based on their own laws. Red Notices are sometimes shared publicly when there is a need for the public to help find a fugitive or criminal on the wanted list.  

In Africa, some countries including Benin, Botswana and Equatorial Guinea have no records of wanted persons, whereas others like Algeria, Morocco and Egypt have quite a number.

In this list, we bring you the first part of a list of Africa’s top wanted persons:

1.      Algeria - Zouaoui Mouatassim

(24 yrs, male) – Wanted for Rape committed against a person in a situation of economic or social vulnerability. Administration of a harmful substance resulting in death without intent to cause it. Supply or offering of narcotics to a minor for their personal consumption. Aggravated pimping: victim a minor aged between 15 and 18 years.

2.      Burundi - Ndikuriyo Ferdinand

(33 yrs, male) – Wanted for fraud and human trafficking.

3.      Somalia - Sayloor Abdiqani

(30 yrs, male) – Wanted for murder

4.      Tunisia - Ben Salem Khalil

(35 yrs, male) – Wanted for rape

5.      Morocco - Meziani Samir

(46 yrs, male) – Wanted for acquisition, possession, offer or transfer of narcotics (heroin) as a repeat offender

6.      Comoros - Farouk Amdjad

(35 yrs, male) – Wanted for murder, unauthorised possession of category B weapons, ammunition or their components.

7.      Morocco - Amzaourou Faysel

(44 yrs, male) – Wanted for voluntary homicide.

8.      Comoros – Radjabou Abdoul Hafour

(27 yrs, male) – Wanted for murder *Unauthorised possession of category B weapons, ammunition or their components.

9.      Algeria – Adda Kamal

(33 yrs, male) – Wanted for murder

10.  Egypt – Attalla Nasser Omar Ibrahim

(64 yrs, male) - Wanted for spousal murder

This was established during the 19 th Summit of the Francophone held in France earlier this month. Both countries signed an agreement during the bilateral meeting overseen by Seychelles’ Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sylvestre Radegonde.

Before this, Beninese citizens had to meet visa requirements for entry into the country for either tourism or other purposes.

The move forms part of efforts to further strengthen its passport which has been ranked as the strongest in Africa.

Seychelles is currently ranked as the most influential passports in Africa and 24 th globally according to the Henley & Partners 2024 rankings.

The country has the largest number of countries (156) that its citizens have visa exemptions for when travelling.

The island nation has made remarkable progress, climbing from 46th place in 2006 to its current global rank.

In her award-winning documentary Dahomey, director Mati Diop explores the return of 26 royal artefacts looted by French troops from the former kingdom of Dahomey in present-day Benin. The film, recently released in France, follows these treasures from their removal in Paris to their homecoming in Cotonou, prompting reflections on displacement, exile, and cultural restitution. Diop aims to give voice to the objects, which reflect the historical impacts of colonialism and resonate with the broader experiences of the African diaspora. The project was inspired by French President Emmanuel Macron’s 2017 call for the restitution of African cultural heritage, reports RFI . Despite the return of these artefacts, many others remain in European museums, and Diop hopes her film will reignite the conversation around restitution and justice. The documentary won the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival, highlighting its significance in addressing collective historical amnesia.

University ban

The Nigerian federal government's recent blanket ban on degree certificates from universities in Togo and Benin, announced by Education Minister Tahir Mamman, has sparked controversy and concern. This decision followed revelations of degree certificate racketeering, including a report of a journalist obtaining a degree in just six weeks. The ban retroactively de-recognizes degrees obtained from these countries between 2017 and 2023, punishing legitimate graduates along with offenders. Critics argue that the government has not thoroughly investigated the accredited institutions, with stakeholders from Benin disputing the minister’s claims about the number of approved universities. As reported by The Nation , graduates and student organisations have protested, claiming the ban is unjust and has damaged their reputations. The article calls for a more nuanced approach that distinguishes between fake and legitimate degree holders while addressing educational quality issues with the respective governments.

Athlete missing in France

Benin track and field athlete Odile Ahouanwanou has been missing in France since September 10. French police are seeking witnesses to her disappearance near Rouen after she dropped off her child and did not return. Her last known location was Neufchâtel-en-Bray, and she drives a Volkswagen Polo. Ahouanwanou, 33, finished eighth in the heptathlon at the 2019 World Championships, reports the Irish Independent.

Ademola Lookman congratulated

Ademola Lookman is the sole African nominee for the 2024 Ballon d'Or, recognised for his significant contributions to both his club, Atalanta, and the Nigerian national team. Lookman scored three goals at the 2023 AFCON, helping Nigeria secure the runners-up position. Benin Republic legend Razak Omotoyossi praised Lookman’s efforts, urging him to maintain his strong performance. Lookman had a standout season with Atalanta, scoring 17 goals in 45 matches and netting a hat-trick in the Europa League final, Legit reported. His nomination is seen as a testament to his hard work and impact on the field.

Fight against malaria

In April, Benin launched a malaria vaccination campaign for children under five, announced by town criers. The Ministry of Health urged families to vaccinate their young ones. Aissi Caroline, mother of nine-month-old twins, promptly took her daughters to the health centre, despite her husband's initial skepticism. This enthusiasm contrasts sharply with the wary reception of the COVID-19 vaccine. The RTSS vaccine, now part of Benin's Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI), is seen as a crucial step in combating malaria, a major public health challenge, Vaccines Work reported.

This policy change is a response to the tourism industry's challenges that emerged before the general elections in March 2024. Hotel operators in Senegal voiced their concerns over the persistent decline in guest numbers at their establishments.

“We need to save the tourist season before it’s too late!” Moussa Yero Dansokho, who manages three three-star hotels in Kédougou, situated more than 700 km away from Dakar and just a short distance from the Niokolo-Koba National Park, expressed his concerns on Monday, March 4.

Meanwhile, Senegal's tourism industry has been growing steadily in recent years, with visitors attracted to its beautiful beaches, wildlife reserves, and historical sites such as the House of Slaves on Gorée Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The visa-free entry policy is also expected to strengthen diplomatic ties with other countries and promote cultural exchange between nations, especially the developed Schengen Area.

Travellers from eligible countries can stay in Senegal for up to 90 days without a visa, providing they meet certain requirements, such as having a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds for their stay.

What they said

Namibia coach Collin Benjamin said playing games away from home will affect the team's chances of qualifying for the World Cups. "We have to get all stakeholders within the government, the private sector, everybody involved, everybody that says they've got soccer in their heart because there is no way you're going to qualify for the World Cup playing 10 matches away. It's not possible until we fix the stadiums," he was quoted as saying.

According to Jean-Guy Afrika , Acting Director of the African Development Bank’s Regional Integration Coordination Office, visa waivers in African countries ease the complexities of going to visit a loved one who lives just a border away.

“It makes it easier for Africans to visit their families, pursue education and business interests abroad, and discover Africa as tourists. It also contributes towards the fulfilment of aspirations for a prosperous, integrated continent where people can develop their potential unhampered by overly restrictive visa regimes,” he said.

Below are five African nations that have adopted such policies to enable seamless travel for Africans:

Seychelles

Situated in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles stands out as one of the most tourist-friendly destinations in Africa. In addition to its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life, Seychelles was reported in 2018 to be the only country offering visa-free access to all African nationals. Visitors need to only provide a valid passport, proof of accommodation, and onward travel arrangements to enjoy up to 30 days in this tropical paradise. However, Nigeria is no longer on its list.

The Gambia

Known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance, The Gambia, in 2019 opened its doors to fellow Africans without the need for a visa. The country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that The Gambia is now a visa-free zone for all charter and scheduled flights. The new visa regulations covered the Commonwealth nations, EU nations, Africa, the Baltic States, and Belgians with their ID cards."

Benin

Benin follows the visa openness by allowing fellow Africans to experience the country visa-free. Visitors can explore the ancient Kingdom of Dahomey, marvel at the vibrant markets of Cotonou, and immerse themselves in the country's diverse traditions, all without the hassle of visa applications.

Kenya

In October 2023, Kenyan President William Ruto unveiled plans to abolish visa requirements for all African visitors by the end of the same year. This initiative aimed to boost trade and cultivate stronger economic relationships with fellow African nations. "By the end of this year, no African will need a visa to enter Kenya. The time has come to understand the importance of doing trade between us," he said.

Rwanda

As one of Africa's fastest-growing economies, Rwanda has emerged as a hub for business and tourism on the continent. In 2023, Rwanda rose as a new leader, driven by its increasingly liberal visa policies implemented over the past eight years. Beginning in 2016, the country enabled citizens from nearly 90% of African nations to acquire visas upon arrival, while citizens from the remaining countries could enter visa-free. Subsequently, Rwanda eliminated visa fees for African citizens. By 2023, Rwanda took a monumental step by waiving visa requirements for citizens from the entire continent.

What they said

Colonel Major Salissou Mahaman Salissou, Secretary-General of the ministry, disclosed in a statement that the activities will be "reserved exclusively for vehicles registered in Niger and Togo”. “Upon exceptional authorisation from the Minister of Transport and Equipment, vehicles registered in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Ghana may also participate in freight removal. Any violator will be subject to sanctions provided for by the regulations in force," the statement added .

 What they said

Prime Minister Zeine, speaking from the capital Niamey rejected Benin's demand for the full reopening of the border. He cited security concerns as the primary deterrent, alleging that Benin's territory hosts bases where terrorists are trained to destabilise Niger. Despite lacking specific details on these claims, Zeine emphasised that the border would remain closed until Niger's security is assured. "In Benin's territory, there are bases where in some, terrorists are trained to come and destabilise our country. So, it is for simple security reasons that we decided to maintain the border closure," Zeine said , adding, "We'll reopen the border when we are certain that our territory is secured."

President of the Republican Bloc parliamentary group, Assan Séïbou has refused to withdraw a bill revising the Constitution despite the Head of State’s reservation on the matter, La Nation reports. According to him, he undertook the initiative independently and not on behalf of the Republic Block group which he leads. The MP is looking to amend two articles of Law No. 90-32 of December 11, 1990, establishing the Constitution of the Republic of Benin as amended by Law No. 2019-40 of November 7, 2019. These are Articles 42 Paragraphs 2 and 153 of the basic law in force. It aims at promoting the principles of equality and legitimacy of deputies and mayors who must sponsor candidates for the presidential election in Benin per the Constitutional Court decision to reorganize the order of the electoral calendar to organize the presidential election before the legislative and municipal elections from 2026 and to strengthen the limitation of the number of presidential mandates to two.

Criminal arrests

Three Cameroonians have been arrested and imprisoned in Benin after distributing false press releases announcing an auction allegedly organized by the country’s Customs. A search carried out at their homes resulted in the discovery of an estimated hundred SIM cards from various countries Benin Web reports. They are being prosecuted for the dissemination of inaccurate information in the name of Beninese Customs.

Exchanges between Benin and Niger leaders

The Beninese President, Patrice Talon, and Niger’s head of state, General Abdourahamane Tchiani have engaged in verbal exchanges in recent times. This follows some statements by President Talon about the effectiveness of ECOWAS sanctions against Niger. Nigerian leader Tchiani responded to this accusing Talon of seeking another mandate rather than the well-being of his people. President Talon however reacted to this, indicating that he did not want a third term nor a revision of Benin’s constitution as is being suggested, La Novelle Tribune reported.

Fire incident

A fire truck carrying 40 tonnes of soybeans was consumed in a fire on February 11, 2024, in Tekparou, district of Tchat chou, commune of Tchaourou. According to 24Heures au Benin , a local news platform, the fire broke out near Tékparou around 5 p.m. after leaving Parakou towards Cotonou. No casualties were recorded as the driver and his apprentice reportedly jumped from the vehicle before the fire razed.

  Cybercrime arrests

Seven individuals suspected of cybercrime were arrested by police in Benin on February 9 in Parakou. The suspects were arrested during an operation by the police of Parakou. The operations according to Benin Web were successful due to the intelligence network of police personnel in the area. The individuals were arrested at their residence which had been transformed into a cybercrime laboratory. They were subsequently transferred to the Central Office for the Repression of Cybercrime (OCRC) in Cotonou.

Several citizens have registered appeals at the secretariat of the Constitutional Court of Benin against the illegal detention of the country’s former Minister of Justice Reckya Madougou, reports Beninweb TV . These individuals say the imprisonment is arbitrary and violates several articles of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The failed candidate was arrested in March 2021 and sentenced to 20 years in prison for ‘financing terrorism’.

Job creation

More than 1.19 million jobs have been created in Benin since 2016, news outlet La Nation reports. Citing details from a report by the National Institute of Statistics and Demography, the report noted that the private sector which is the main driver of job creation provided about 77 percent of jobs compared to 23 percent for the public sector. The prevalence of informal jobs which constitute 82 percent of jobs created however raises questions about job stability, social benefits and worker protections.

Trade agreement

Locally-produced Beninese pineapple has been accepted on the Chinese market, Cotonou , a Benin-based news platform reported. The first containers of the ‘sugar loaf’ variety of fruit were received in China on Sunday, November 5, 2023, in the presence of Chinese authorities and the Ambassador of Benin to China, Christian Adovelandé. The development forms part of trade agreements between both countries and Benin is expected to maintain the quality of the product on the market.

Airport security

The Benin Airports Company (SAB) has collaborated with European security company, Société Amarante International to improve security management at Cotonou International Airport in Benin’s largest city. The signing ceremony was chaired by Benin’s Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, Hervé HEHOMEY. The arrangement, according to the government , will ensure that users of the Cotonou International Airport are guaranteed the utmost safety during travel.

Civil aviation

The 26 th meeting of the Africa-Indian Ocean Regional Group for Planning and Implementation (APIRG) has been launched in Cotonou, Benin, the government of Benin has said. The meeting brought together around 300 international civil aviation actors to the Cotonou Congress Centre from all countries of Africa and the Indian Ocean. Civil aviation safety issues within the region were discussed.