Benin’s newly sworn-in president, Romauld Wadagni, has pledged to ensure the country’s strong economic growth translates into visible improvements in the daily lives of ordinary citizens, as the West African nation grapples with poverty, insecurity, and rising public expectations.
Wadagni, 49, took office on Sunday, May 24, 2026, after serving as finance minister under the previous administration, where he helped oversee one of Benin’s strongest economic performances in decades.
The country recorded economic growth of 7.5% last year, its highest level since 1990, according to government and IMF estimates. The International Monetary Fund expects the economy to expand by another 7% this year, while inflation is projected to remain close to 2%.
But despite the impressive figures, many citizens say the benefits of growth have yet to reach struggling households. More than a third of Benin’s population still lives below the poverty line, while food insecurity remains a major concern across parts of the country.
“National growth only makes sense when it becomes visible in people’s everyday lives,” Wadagni said during his inauguration speech, signalling a shift toward policies focused more directly on living standards and social impact.
