In Benin, voters are called to the polls on April 12 to elect a new president, in an economic context considered generally dynamic.
In Cotonou, Claudia Togbe paints a rather positive picture. According to her, the reforms undertaken by President Patrice Talon, who is preparing to leave office after ten years, have helped to improve the business climate. Her shop has quadrupled in size in just a few years, driven in particular by the emergence of a "certain middle class," which has become a new clientele.
For several years now, if you want to start a business in Benin, you can do it in an hour. This was not the case 15 years ago; at the time, you had to queue, and come back, come back in two weeks, three weeks or a month, she explains.
In Abomey-Calavi, a suburb of Cotonou, Mathias Tottin also embodies this dynamic. His agri-food company has grown significantly in recent years and now employs around forty people: the business climate has improved considerably, to the point that one can no longer operate as a casual trader. Certain conditions must be met to be considered a legitimate trader; for example, previously, one paid their tax certificate in January or February, and this was valid for an additional year.
With annual growth exceeding 6%, a deficit reduced to 3% of GDP, thousands of kilometers of roads built, and easier access to international markets, the economic indicators are positive. But this growth is not benefiting everyone. On the ground, many residents are complaining about the rising cost of living.
If you go to the market now, ginger costs 500. Tomatoes… Actually, everything is expensive. Nothing is affordable anymore. Nothing, absolutely nothing, complains Aliou Falilatou, a food vendor.
Between economic performance and daily difficulties, Sunday's election will take place in a contrasting climate, where social concerns remain at the heart of citizens' expectations.
