At a high-profile investor forum in Kenya, top officials from Bénin’s industrial and financial sectors outlined the country’s bold economic transformation strategy. Létondji Beheton, CEO of SIPI-BENIN S.A, and Maryse Lokossou, CEO of CDC Bénin, shared insights on how the nation is leveraging local value addition, industrialization, and long-term capital mobilization to attract global investors.
GDIZ: Africa’s fastest-growing industrial zone
Létondji Beheton highlighted the rapid expansion of the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ), a 1,640-hectare economic hub now home to over 20 operational factories and responsible for creating around 25,000 jobs. The zone, a cornerstone of Bénin’s industrial policy, is driving the country’s shift toward processing raw materials locally. However, he acknowledged ongoing challenges such as high energy costs, access to affordable financing, and the need for stronger logistics networks.
Bénin is prioritizing investments in industrial, energy, and transport infrastructure to reduce these bottlenecks. A key focus is the local processing of cotton and cashew nuts—two of the country’s top agricultural exports—with the goal of increasing domestic value addition before export. As one of Africa’s leading raw cotton producers, Bénin aims to boost its textile industry by keeping more of the production cycle within its borders.
CDC Bénin mobilizes long-term capital for industrial growth
Maryse Lokossou, CEO of CDC Bénin, detailed how the state-backed sovereign fund—established in 2018—plays a pivotal role in financing strategic industrial projects. With a mandate to attract long-term capital, CDC Bénin supports initiatives that enhance local processing capabilities, particularly in cotton and cashew nut sectors.
According to figures shared during the event, about 13% of Bénin’s raw cotton is now processed domestically before export, while nearly half of its exported cashew nuts undergo local transformation. These efforts are expected to create job opportunities for youth and foster the development of industrial skills across the country.
Bénin seeks deeper foreign investment partnerships
The Bénin delegation made a strong case for international investors to capitalize on the country’s growing industrial ecosystem. Maryse Lokossou emphasized CDC Bénin’s readiness to de-risk industrial projects and provide financial backing to viable ventures. Meanwhile, Létondji Beheton called for accelerated investment flows to match the country’s industrial ambitions.
The officials underscored Bénin’s structured approach, combining robust infrastructure, financial support, and government commitment. By participating in forums like this, the country aims to strengthen its appeal to foreign investors, particularly in industrial processing, renewable energy, and infrastructure development.
