Africa-Press. The new President of Benin, Romuald Wadani, pledged during his inauguration ceremony on Sunday to confront rising security threats and ensure that economic growth translates into tangible improvements in people’s lives.
Wadani was elected on April 12 with over 94% of the votes against his opponent, Paul Hounkpe, according to the constitutional court. He succeeds Patrice Talon, who led the West African nation since 2016 and stepped down after two constitutional terms.
The former finance minister, who held the position for a decade, is expected to continue the reform agenda set by Talon, which helped achieve steady economic growth and improve the business climate in Benin.
Wadani affirmed, “Our economy has advanced. This is a fact. But we all know that national growth only matters when it becomes evident in people’s daily lives,” committing to focus on job creation, providing essential services, and social protection.
He added, “The development of Benin must be felt in every component of society and in every region of the republic,” noting that “Benin will not succumb to fear or complacency,” and pledging closer cooperation with neighboring countries facing the same threats.
