Bénin’s Awaou Baco engages with SMEs in Alibori and Borgou departments
On July 28 and 29, 2026, Awaou Baco, Benin’s Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises and Employment Promotion, embarked on an outreach mission across the Alibori and Borgou departments. The tour brought her face-to-face with local entrepreneurs, artisans, livestock farmers, vocational training centers, and beneficiaries of the AZOLI program, designed to empower youth and vulnerable groups.
Engaging with local entrepreneurs and artisans
The first leg of the journey on July 28 began in Alibori, where Minister Baco met with Prefect Ahmed Bello Ky-Sama. She then traveled to Malanville, connecting with small business owners, mechanics, and rabbit breeders to assess their needs and the support mechanisms available to them.
In Nikki, the minister visited the Artisanat vocational training center. There, she engaged with instructors and learners to discuss training curricula and pathways to professional integration. A working session in Kandi with local youth followed, focusing on public initiatives for skill development, employment, and entrepreneurship.
The AZOLI program: empowering youth and people with disabilities
The second day, July 29, took the delegation to Borgou, starting with a courtesy call to Prefect Abdoul Chakour Assouma Naro. At the Amaldi Prestige Hotel in Parakou, Minister Baco met over 50 young participants from the four northern departments who were undergoing training under the AZOLI program. Discussions centered on their learning progress and future employment opportunities post-training.
Another key component of AZOLI involves 46 people with disabilities trained in shoemaking and leatherwork. This initiative aims to enhance their access to vocational skills and economic independence.
The tour also included a stop at ASAFMA, a local SME specializing in welding, metalworking, and agro-processing machinery production. The company is supported by the Benin Agency for SME Development, the Entrepreneurship Support Project, and the Benin Chamber of Crafts and Trades.
Digital platforms as gateways to public support
The final visit was to Delika’s Tissage, an artisanal enterprise focused on traditional weaving, textile bands, and custom fabric products. The business owner showcased creations rooted in local textile heritage.
Throughout the visit, Minister Baco encouraged participants to leverage digital platforms such as SICA (sica.anpe.bj) and e-PME. These online portals provide streamlined access to business registration, funding opportunities, and professional integration resources.
In her closing remarks, Awaou Baco urged project leaders to remain persistent in their ventures. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to advancing reforms and investments to bolster youth and women’s employment and entrepreneurship across Benin.
