The Republic of Bénin is set to make history this Sunday, 24 May 2026, when the presidential inauguration ceremony of President-elect Romuald Wadagni will be broadcast live, free of charge, across all mobile networks nationwide. For the first time, the event will not only be accessible in person at the Palais des Congrès in Cotonou but will also be streamed without any data consumption for mobile users.

Breaking new ground in digital inclusivity

A groundbreaking agreement between the government and the three leading mobile operators—MTN Bénin, Moov Africa Bénin, and Celtiis—has paved the way for a zero-rating policy. This initiative eliminates data costs, ensuring that every citizen with a 3G or 4G connection can participate in the ceremony without financial constraints.

The decision to host the inauguration at the Palais des Congrès, rather than the traditional venue at the Stade Charles de Gaulle in Porto-Novo (currently under renovation), has inadvertently accelerated this digital inclusion effort. By prioritizing online accessibility, the organizers have removed a significant obstacle for the public to witness a pivotal moment in the nation’s democratic process.

Seamless access for all citizens

The zero-rating policy will activate automatically when official channels, including those of the presidency and public broadcaster SRTB, commence live coverage. This seamless integration ensures uninterrupted access for viewers nationwide, whether in urban centers or remote areas.

Key benefits of the initiative

• Universal reach: Coverage extends to all regions with 3G or 4G connectivity, bridging the digital divide.
• No financial barrier: Users are not required to possess a specific mobile plan or data balance to stream the event.
• Robust infrastructure: The three telecom operators have upgraded their networks to handle the anticipated surge in simultaneous connections.

A symbolic leap for democratic transparency

Beyond its technical merits, this initiative holds profound political significance. By enabling every smartphone-equipped citizen to witness the transfer of power firsthand, the incoming administration underscores its commitment to transparency and civic engagement. The move aligns with broader efforts to modernize institutional communication across West Africa.

As the nation prepares for this landmark event, the inauguration of President Wadagni is poised to set a precedent for future national ceremonies, demonstrating how technology can democratize access to governance.