Létondji Beheton, CEO of SIPI-BENIN S.A, and Maryse Lokossou, CEO of CDC Bénin, showcased the country’s industrial and financial strategy during the Africa Forward | Inspire & Connect event in Kenya. Organized with support from key development partners, the forum highlighted investment opportunities in Bénin’s thriving industries.

The Bénin delegation emphasized a model centered on local processing of raw materials, industrialization, and long-term capital mobilization. At the heart of the discussion was the Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ), a flagship project driving the country’s economic transformation. Covering 1,640 hectares, the GDIZ now hosts over twenty operational factories, having already created approximately 25,000 jobs.

GDIZ: A strategic engine for industrialization

Speaking at the panel, Beheton reflected on his career in international finance before returning to Bénin to contribute to economic improvement. He highlighted the GDIZ’s rapid development, noting its role in enhancing the business climate and fostering industrial growth since 2016.

The zone’s success underscores Bénin’s commitment to overcoming key industrial challenges, including energy costs, access to competitive financing, and logistics infrastructure. To address these, the country is investing heavily in industrial, energy, and transport infrastructure, with a focus on processing local agricultural commodities like cotton and cashew nuts. Bénin ranks among Africa’s top producers of raw cotton, and its strategy aims to boost value addition before export.

CDC Bénin mobilizes long-term capital for economic transformation

Maryse Lokossou outlined the role of CDC Bénin, a public institution established in 2018 as a sovereign wealth fund to finance strategic projects. As a former executive at the West African Development Bank (BOAD), she stressed the fund’s mission to support sustainable investments that drive economic diversification.

Current data shows progress in local processing: around 13% of Bénin’s raw cotton is now processed domestically, while nearly half of exported cashew nuts undergo local transformation. These efforts are expected to create jobs for youth and develop industrial skills across the country.

Attracting global investors to Bénin’s industrial future

The Bénin representatives called on international investors to seize opportunities in industrial transformation, energy, and infrastructure. Lokossou emphasized CDC Bénin’s readiness to support project leaders in mitigating investment risks, while Beheton urged faster capital deployment to meet the country’s industrial ambitions.

The delegation highlighted an already structured ecosystem combining industrial infrastructure, financial support, and strong political commitment. By participating in this forum, Bénin aims to strengthen its appeal to foreign partners and accelerate investments in key sectors.