Bénin minister meets SMEs in Alibori and Borgou departments

The Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises and Employment Promotion in Bénin, Awaou Baco, conducted a two-day working visit to the Alibori and Borgou departments on July 28 and 29, 2026. The purpose of the tour was to engage directly with local business owners, artisans, livestock breeders, training centers, and beneficiaries of the AZOLI program, assessing the effectiveness of support systems designed for young professionals, women, and people with disabilities.

Direct exchanges with local entrepreneurs and artisans

On July 28, the first leg of the tour took place in Alibori. Minister Baco met with local officials, including Prefect Ahmed Bello Ky-Sama, before visiting Malanville. There, she held discussions with small business owners, mechanics, and rabbit breeders to understand their challenges and needs. Later, in Nikki, she toured a vocational training center for artisans, where she spoke with instructors and trainees about available programs and job placement opportunities.

The day concluded with a working session in Kandi’s municipal hall, where the minister engaged with young entrepreneurs. The dialogue focused on public initiatives supporting training, employment, and entrepreneurship for youth in the region.

The AZOLI program: empowering youth and persons with disabilities

The following day, the delegation moved to Borgou, beginning with a courtesy visit to Prefect Abdoul Chakour Assouma Naro. At the Amaldi Prestige Hotel in Parakou, Minister Baco met with around 50 young people from northern Bénin who were completing their training under the AZOLI program. The discussions centered on their learning experiences and future career prospects after graduation.

Another key component of the program involves 46 individuals with disabilities who are being trained in shoemaking and leatherwork. This initiative aims to equip them with essential skills for economic independence and professional integration.

Supporting SMEs and digital access to public services

The tour also included a visit to ASAFMA, a local SME specializing in welding, metalwork, and manufacturing for the agro-food sector. The company is supported by the Agency for the Development of Small and Medium Enterprises, the Entrepreneurship Support Project in Bénin, and the Chamber of Trades and Artisan Crafts of Bénin.

The delegation’s final stop was at Delika’s Tissage, an artisan enterprise focused on traditional textile weaving, band production, and personalized fabric items. The owner highlighted the importance of preserving local textile heritage while adapting to market demands.

Throughout the visit, Minister Baco encouraged young professionals, artisans, and SME owners to leverage digital platforms like SICA (available at sica.anpe.bj) and e-PME. These tools provide access to guidance, financing options, business formalization, and professional integration services.

In her closing remarks, she urged aspiring entrepreneurs to remain persistent and resilient. The government, she emphasized, remains committed to advancing reforms and investments to bolster job creation and entrepreneurship among women and youth across Bénin.