Benin report - Institut Africain de la Gouvernance

APPENDIX III: REPORT ON THE PEER REVIEW OF BENIN__________________________________________________________________________As you know, Benin will not, on its own be able to face obstacles to its development,it needs the other countries of the sub-region and of the continent to do so.Therefore, Benin would like to request the support and solidarity of ECOWASmember countries, the rest of the continent to support Benin in its noble but excitingmission of building of a modern, prosperous nation where there are peace, security,democracy, all being supported by an harmonious and balanced development.I know Benin can rely on every one of you as Benin is Africa and Benin will not missout being useful to the continent.Benin remains open to development partners to carry on with them the movement onthe political, economic and social development way.Forum DiscussionsThe Chairperson of the Forum congratulated President Boni Yayi for hiscomprehensive presentation. He indicated that other Peers are called upon to givetheir comments and observations on the report in the spirit of the Peer Review whichis not judgmental, rather it is meant to encourage the Peers to assist each other.President Kufuor in his intervention, congratulated President Boni Yayi on thestrategy he has adopted for his country, especially the co-prosperity zone, which hasnot been mentioned in his presentation. This co-prosperity zone has given opportunityto create roads and to generate electricity. This report will help to pursue thesechanges.President Museveni praised President Boni Yayi for his presentation and the highquality of the report. He indicated that every development has a transition phase. Inthis regard, African countries cannot prosper without industrialization and themodernization of services. Industrialization creates employment, while free educationwithout jobs creation may lead to a political crisis. Benin should increase his export,widening its tax base and link agriculture to the industry. This strategy wouldnecessary increase the capacity to employ people who received training and skills.The chairperson of the Forum commended the Country Review Team for the highquality of the report. He praised Benin for its exemplary peaceful transition whichcreates a conducive environment for development. However, challenges faced byBenin has been faced by any other country of the continent, namely:- Pervasive corruption which could undermine the efforts made to sustain economicgrowth;- Almost 150 political parties for Benin could not be necessary a sign of a healthierdemocracy. Political parties are more business groups rather than real partiesbased on programmes. These political parties could be a treat for the country. Inaddition, 3000 NGO registered are funded by external resources, thus are meantto report to these donors. As recommendation, the country should take measure torationalize political parties and regulate the registration of NGOs.- Economic growth acceleration is in outstanding and the target of 7% iscommendable. However the actual growth is less than the growing of the413