Romuald Wadagni has unveiled his first cabinet just hours after assuming office as President of the Bénin, introducing a 22-member executive team alongside three deputy ministers. The formation reflects a deliberate blend of seasoned officials from the previous administration and fresh strategic appointments, signaling both stability and a forward-looking agenda.
Balancing continuity with new priorities
The government structure underscores President Wadagni’s commitment to sustaining key reforms initiated under Patrice Talon while embedding his own policy priorities—particularly in digital transformation, innovation, and public sector modernization. This dual approach aims to reinforce economic resilience and institutional efficiency across critical sectors.
Key ministerial appointments
Yvon Détchénou steps into the Justice and Legislation portfolio, bringing continuity to legal governance. Aristide Médenou takes charge of the Economy and Finance ministry, while Gildas Agonkan is assigned to National Defense. Djibril Mama Cissé Moussa assumes leadership of the Interior and Public Security brief, reinforcing the government’s focus on stability and citizen safety.
Corinne Amori Brunet assumes the helm of Foreign Affairs, positioning her to navigate regional and international partnerships. Olushegun Adjadi Bakari retains his role in Tourism, Foreign Trade, and Industry, a critical area for economic diversification and investment attraction.
Social and infrastructural focus
The new cabinet places strong emphasis on social sectors, with Benjamin Hounkpatin retained as Health minister and Véronique Tognifodé overseeing Family and Social Action. Sedami Medegan Fagla is tasked with Higher Education and Scientific Research, highlighting the administration’s investment in human capital development.
In infrastructure and public amenities, Georges Alley leads the Transport and Living Environment ministry, while Édouard Dahomey heads Energy, Water, and Mines—a portfolio vital for sustainable resource management and energy security.
A digital-first agenda
One of the most notable innovations in this government is the creation of a dedicated Digital Transformation and Innovation ministry, led by Mahouna Aklogan. This new portfolio underscores the administration’s resolve to accelerate the country’s technological leapfrog, fostering digital inclusion and e-governance initiatives to drive inclusive growth.
The executive also includes three deputy ministers, with Wilson Gakpéto appointed Secretary-General of the government—a pivotal role ensuring policy coherence and inter-ministerial coordination. Together, these appointments craft a governance model that balances institutional stability with bold developmental aspirations, responding to pressing national needs in economy, security, and technology.
