Bénin appoints first female aide-de-camp to president

For the first time in the history of Benin’s institutions, a woman has been appointed to the prestigious role of presidential aide-de-camp. President Romuald Wadagni has named Captain Elvire Toupé to this key position within the presidential security team.

This groundbreaking appointment underscores a commitment to gender inclusion in the highest echelons of national leadership. Captain Toupé, born on July 21, 1990, in Porto-Novo, brings a wealth of military discipline and academic excellence to her new role.

Military roots and academic excellence

Her journey began at the Lycée militaire des jeunes filles Général Mathieu Kérékou in Natitingou, where she was part of the institution’s inaugural class of female military students. After completing rigorous officer training at the École nationale des officiers de Toffo from 2012 to 2014, she earned her infantry section leader certification. Beyond her military credentials, she holds a degree in medical imaging, initially working in the healthcare sector before fully dedicating herself to her military career.

Promoted to the rank of captain in 2021, Captain Toupé now stands as the highest-ranking female officer in Benin’s infantry forces.