Benin minister meets with SMEs in Alibori and Borgou departments

The Minister of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises and Employment Promotion, Awaou Baco, conducted a two-day working visit to the Alibori and Borgou departments on July 28 and 29, 2026. The tour brought her face-to-face with entrepreneurs, artisans, livestock breeders, vocational training centers, and beneficiaries of the AZOLI program.

Assessing support systems for entrepreneurs and professionals

The primary goal of this mission was to evaluate existing support mechanisms for young people, women, artisans, and individuals with disabilities. The minister engaged with local stakeholders to better understand their challenges and the effectiveness of available programs.

Day one: Exploring opportunities in Alibori

The first leg of the journey began with a courtesy call to Prefect Ahmed Bello Ky-Sama in Malanville. The minister then met with SME operators, garage owners, and rabbit breeders to discuss their business needs and potential government assistance.

In Nikki, a key stop was the vocational training center for artisans. Awaou Baco interacted with instructors and trainees, examining training programs and discussing employment prospects in skilled trades.

The day concluded with a working session in Kandi, where young people shared their experiences with public programs for training, employment, and entrepreneurship.

A closer look at the AZOLI program for youth and people with disabilities

The following day, the minister continued her tour in the Borgou department after a courtesy visit to Prefect Abdoul Chakour Assouma Naro.

At the Amaldi Prestige Hotel, she met with nearly 50 young people from four northern departments who were completing their internships under the AZOLI program. The discussions focused on the progress of their training and future job placement opportunities.

A notable aspect of the AZOLI initiative is its inclusion of 46 individuals with disabilities, who are learning trades such as shoemaking and leatherwork. This component aims to enhance their professional skills and economic independence.

Supporting local enterprises and digital tools for growth

The tour also included a visit to ASAFMA, a local SME specializing in welding, metal fitting, and the production of machinery for the agri-food sector. The company benefits from support provided by the Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Development Agency, the Entrepreneurship Support Project in Benin, and the Chamber of Trades and Crafts.

The final stop was Delika’s Tissage, an artisan enterprise focused on traditional weaving, textile band production, and customized fabric items. The business owner draws inspiration from local textile heritage to develop unique products.

Throughout the visit, Awaou Baco encouraged entrepreneurs and artisans to leverage digital platforms such as SICA (sica.anpe.bj) and e-PME. These tools are designed to simplify access to government support, financing options, business formalization, and professional integration.

The minister also urged project initiators to remain committed to their ventures. According to the tour’s official summary, the government is committed to advancing reforms and investments that foster youth and women’s employment and entrepreneurship.