Bénin/Lancement de la Phase 3 du Programme Redevabilité à Cotonou: Un partenariat fructueux entre la Suisse et le Bénin renforcé

On Tuesday March 25, 2025, Cotonou played host to the official launch of phase 3 of the Accountability Program, the result of fruitful cooperation between Switzerland and the Beninese government. This new twelve-year stage, structured in three four-year phases, brought together at the Golden Tulip Hotel presidents of institutions, representatives of the Autonomous National Electoral Commission (CENA), members of sectoral ministries, as well as delegates from technical and financial partners, in addition to key players from civil society. This program, which is part of a dynamic of dialogue and mutual commitment, was launched by the Minister of Justice and Legislation, Mr. Yvon DETCHENOU.

Ambitious program objectives

The success of this phase hinges on considerable challenges, such as the systematization of dialogue between those involved in the demand for and supply of accountability, and the sustainability of the Fonds de Soutien aux Initiatives de Redevabilité (FoSIR).

With a budget of 9,300,000 CHF, or around 6,400,000,000 FCFA, allocated by the Swiss Cooperation, the prospects envisaged include the evaluation of the quality of public services and the effective implementation of a national accountability strategy. Phase 3, which will cover all Benin's departments, is aimed at a wide range of target groups, confirming the program's commitment to promoting inclusion and citizen participation.

A call for collective commitment

Mrs Élisabeth Pitteloud ALANSAR, Head of Switzerland's International Cooperation Department in Benin, stressed the importance of a multi-actor approach to improving basic social services. She stressed the need for civil society to play an active and responsible role in this process of building an inclusive and engaged citizenry. This networking of responsibility-bearers and interface players, such as the media and regulatory institutions, is deemed essential to give impetus to the desired accountability dynamic in Benin.

Forward-looking projects

Martin Ronce RAY, representative of GFA Consulting Group, outlined an ambitious project designed to support the synergy of the efforts of the various players to guarantee a mission that transcends the immediate and benefits the general interest over the long term.

Mr Camille YABI, the program's Deputy Team Leader, began by presenting the key results and lessons learned from the second phase to an audience of invited guests.s of the second phase, demonstrating the continuity and progress achieved, before inviting all stakeholders to make a united commitment.

Renewed commitment from partners

In his opening address, Mr. Yvon DETCHENOU, Keeper of the Seals, Minister of Justice and Legislation, reaffirmed that the Accountability Program will be a vehicle for the full enjoyment of citizens' socio-economic and political rights. He called for a collective commitment from all participants to ensure the effectiveness of this initiative.

To conclude the ceremony, the Minister officially installed the members of the Strategic Orientation Committee (COS), which he will chair, to steer phase 3 of the program towards a promising future.

Source: www.gouv.bj/