The Bénin government has officially launched its sweeping seven-year development agenda following the first cabinet meeting of President Romuald Wadagni’s term. Held at the Palais de la Marina on May 28, 2026, the inaugural ministerial session set the tone for governance during the 2026–2033 mandate.
a fresh mandate rooted in national service
During the historic meeting, President Wadagni welcomed the newly appointed ministers, emphasizing that their appointment is not a privilege but a mission of public service. He called on the executive team to uphold unwavering integrity, strict sobriety, and continuous solidarity, strictly avoiding any partisan or personal bias in decision-making.
priorities for inclusive growth and security
The president outlined two key pillars for the new administration: territorial equity and national security. The government has been tasked with reducing communal disparities by accelerating infrastructure development, expanding access to essential public services, and increasing investments in local communities across Bénin.
At the same time, the security situation remains a top priority, especially following recent armed incidents in the northern regions. President Wadagni instructed the defense and security forces to maintain heightened vigilance to protect the nation’s borders and citizens.
streamlined governance for greater efficiency
To ensure smoother operations, the executive branch has introduced a revised meeting schedule. The Council of Ministers will now convene monthly, on the first Wednesday of each month, with extraordinary sessions called as needed. The Interministerial Committee will meet twice monthly—on the first and third Mondays—to foster cross-sector coordination.
The government also plans to hold joint sessions involving the Council of Ministers, the Interministerial Committee, and sectoral ministers to tackle complex policy challenges more effectively.
This first cabinet meeting signals the formal start of institutional operations under the new seven-year term, following President Wadagni’s swearing-in ceremony on May 24, 2026.