As part of a bold decentralisation initiative, the administrative and financial oversight of contract-based health workers recruited under the 2025 promotion has officially been transferred to all 77 municipalities in Benin.

This strategic move, formalised through a ministerial circular signed on 23 July 2026 by the Minister of Decentralisation and Local Governance, Rodrigue Sèwènan Chaou, signifies a significant shift in how local health services are managed and delivered across the country.

Ensuring timely salaries and accessible healthcare

The reform introduces tangible benefits for contract-based health professionals working at the grassroots level. One of the key provisions is the guarantee of regular salary payments, with disbursements scheduled no later than the 20th of each month — aligning the payment cycle with that of permanent civil servants.

Additionally, the management of health coverage for these agents has been decentralised to the municipal level. Local councils are now responsible for overseeing benefit claims directly, ensuring faster processing and improved medical support for workers on the frontlines of Benin’s healthcare system.

Strengthening local health systems through autonomy

By entrusting municipalities with the oversight of contract-based health personnel, the government aims to strengthen the responsiveness and efficiency of local health services. This approach not only enhances administrative proximity but also fosters a more sustainable and equitable distribution of healthcare resources across Benin’s diverse regions.