Benin’s new government sets strategic agenda and monthly council schedule

The inaugural Council of Ministers for Benin’s 2026-2033 presidential term convened on Thursday, May 28, 2026. Chaired by Head of State Romuald Wadagni, this pivotal meeting established the overarching strategic directions for governmental action over the upcoming seven years.

During the session, President Wadagni underscored to his cabinet members their fundamental duty: to serve the collective interest with unwavering rigor, responsibility, and exemplary conduct. The presidential directives emphasized that the government’s operations must be grounded in principles of sobriety, integrity, solidarity, and accountability, aiming to cultivate stronger trust between the state and its citizens.

Among the primary objectives for this seven-year mandate are the concerted efforts to combat extreme poverty, narrow social and regional disparities, and bolster national security. The administration is committed to fostering more balanced development by ensuring a more equitable distribution of public investments across the entire national territory.

Furthermore, this initial Council of Ministers adopted a revised operational framework for the Executive branch. This new structure is designed to enhance the coordination of public initiatives and accelerate decision-making processes.

Under the new guidelines, the Council of Ministers will now hold its ordinary sessions on the first Wednesday of every month. The Interministerial Committee is scheduled for two monthly meetings, set for the first and third Mondays. Cabinet Councils, on the other hand, will convene as dictated by the specific requirements of the various ministerial departments.

With this foundational Council meeting, the Beninese government for the 2026-2033 septennat officially embarks on its operational phase. Its comprehensive roadmap is firmly centered on institutional discipline, achieving high performance, and effectively addressing the social expectations of the populace.