Benin wants to improve its digital environment and is looking to hire an expert to lead its digital transformation initiative.
This announcement was made by the Ministry of Digital Affairs and Digitalisation on November 18, 2024, during the presentation of the 2025 budget.
The government, led by President Patrice Talon, has prioritised digital technology as a cornerstone of economic growth and modernisation.
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Vision for digital growth
Since taking office in 2016, President Talon has made significant strides in integrating digital initiatives into Benin’s development agenda.
The government plans to allocate approximately CFA 16.4 billion (around $26.4 million) to various digital projects in 2025, constituting 56.8 percent of the Ministry’s total budget for that year.
Minister Aurélie Adam Soulé Zoumarou emphasised that these investments enhance infrastructure, governance, and media development.
This includes initiatives such as launching “Benin TV Alafia,” a national-language television channel to foster local content creation.
The government’s commitment to digital transformation is further evidenced by its ambitious goal to connect all municipalities to high-speed internet by mid-2025.
This initiative will expand the fibre-optic network from 2,550 kilometres to an impressive 3,300 kilometres, ensuring that even remote areas can access reliable internet services.
“Digital transformation is a key priority for the Beninese government,” Minister Zoumarou stated during a recent television program, highlighting the administration’s resolve to position Benin as West Africa’s digital service platform.
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Engaging local expertise
To realise this vision, Benin seeks skilled professionals who can contribute their expertise to drive these digital initiatives forward.
The Ministry aims to leverage local talent and innovations from the private sector, creating a collaborative environment that fosters growth and development.
The Beninnovation project, supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), exemplifies this approach by facilitating partnerships between government agencies and private enterprises to enhance service delivery digitally.
The urgency of this call for expertise reflects a broader trend across Africa, where countries increasingly recognise the importance of digital transformation as a catalyst for economic development.
As Benin strives to enhance its digital capabilities, it faces challenges typical of many regional nations—such as inadequate infrastructure and the need for regulatory frameworks that support innovation. However, Benin aims to overcome these hurdles with strategic investments and a focus on human capacity building.
The government’s efforts are not only about technology but also about inclusivity. Benin hopes to foster social inclusion and stimulate economic participation across various sectors by ensuring that all citizens can access digital services.
The ambition is clear: by establishing itself as a regional hub for digital services, Benin seeks to attract investment and talent while improving the quality of life for its citizens.
Benin’s transformative journey depends on the availability of resources and skills. The following years will be crucial as it seeks West African digital innovation leadership.