Benin romuald wadagni unveils new government with digital focus

Stability meets innovation in Benin’s new executive lineup

Moments after assuming office in Benin, President Romuald Wadagni announced the formation of his inaugural cabinet. The 22-member team, supplemented by three deputy ministers, reflects a deliberate blend of experienced officials from the previous administration and fresh strategic appointments.

The composition underscores the President’s dual commitment: sustaining the momentum of key reforms initiated under Patrice Talon’s leadership while infusing new energy into priority sectors like digital transformation, innovation, and public governance.

Key appointments signal policy continuity and renewal

The judicial system will now be led by Yvon Détchénou, who takes charge as Minister of Justice and Legislation. Meanwhile, Aristide Médenou returns to steer the Ministry of Economy and Finance, reinforcing financial management continuity.

In national defense, Gildas Agonkan assumes leadership, while Djibril Mama Cissé Moussa is tasked with overseeing Internal Affairs and Public Security. These roles are pivotal in maintaining stability amid evolving regional challenges.

Diplomacy and economic attractiveness take center stage

Corinne Amori Brunet steps into the role of Minister of Foreign Affairs, tasked with strengthening Benin’s diplomatic presence on the global stage. Olushegun Adjadi Bakari retains his position at the helm of the Ministry of Tourism, Foreign Trade, and Industry, a portfolio critical to economic growth through trade and investment.

Social sectors prioritized in reshaped government

The health sector sees Benjamin Hounkpatin continue his tenure as Minister of Health, ensuring uninterrupted focus on public health initiatives. Meanwhile, Véronique Tognifodé takes charge of Family and Social Action, while Sedami Medegan Fagla is entrusted with Higher Education and Scientific Research, signaling a renewed emphasis on education and innovation.

A standout feature of this administration is the creation of a dedicated Ministry of Digital Transformation and Innovation, assigned to Mahouna Aklogan. This strategic move highlights the government’s resolve to accelerate technological modernization and position Benin as a regional leader in digital governance.

Infrastructure and energy sectors receive fresh leadership

Overseeing the nation’s transportation networks and urban development, Georges Alley assumes the Ministry of Transport and Living Environment. In parallel, Edouard Dahomey steps in to lead the Ministry of Energy, Water, and Mines, a crucial portfolio for sustainable resource management and infrastructure development.

The government also includes three deputy ministers, alongside Wilson Gakpéto, who has been named Secretary-General of the Government—a role central to inter-ministerial coordination and policy execution.

With this carefully crafted cabinet, President Wadagni has laid the groundwork for a phase of balanced development. The blend of continuity and innovation aims to address pressing economic, social, and technological aspirations, positioning Benin for sustained progress in a dynamic regional landscape.