On December 16, 2024, the official launch of the Borgou departmental consultation took place in the presence of Bembèrèkè’s mayor, Garba Yaya and High Officials from the Prefecture and mayors councils from Kalalé, Sinendé, Pèrèrè, and Bembèrèkè. The President of RFLD, Dossi Sêkonnou Gloria AGUEH, opened the proceedings, emphasizing the importance of citizen involvement in local budget development. The focus was on engaging citizens in Sinendé, Kalalé, Pèrèrè, and Bembèrèkè, all under the framework of the CEGIDEL BORGOU project (Engaged Citizens for Inclusive Governance and Development in Borgou). During his welcome address, Mayor Garba Yaya praised RFLD’s efforts to strengthen female leadership and promote women’s involvement in budget development within the municipalities of Borgou. On behalf of the mayors of the four beneficiary municipalities, he expressed gratitude to the U.S. Embassy for financing this important project aimed at enhancing local governance through citizen engagement.
President Dossi Sêkonnou Gloria AGUEH reminded attendees that local governance is the cornerstone of any participatory democracy and inclusive development. She emphasized that it is the framework through which citizens express themselves, participate, and contribute to decision-making processes that affect their daily lives. Her remarks underscored the critical nature of local governance in fostering active citizenship and enhancing community well-being. AGUEH stressed the vital role of female leadership in local governance. According to her, women’s participation in managing local affairs is not only a right but also a necessity for effective governance. She noted that proximity between decision-makers and the population is both an opportunity and a responsibility to meet the real needs of citizens, particularly vulnerable groups such as women and youth.
Throughout the consultation, RFLD will continue to advocate for better representation of women in local decision-making bodies while enhancing their capacity to influence local public policies. The workshop will feature discussions on various themes aimed at improving participatory governance for inclusive development in the municipalities of Bembèrèkè, Pèrèrè, Sinendé, and Kalalé. Topics will include decentralization and local governance, civic rights and responsibilities, local budget management, transparency and accountability, intergenerational dialogue, local development planning, project evaluation and monitoring, and community engagement. These modules will be presented by experts and consultants in governance from the RFLD, providing valuable insights and practical skills for local leaders.
As a proud grantee of the U.S. Embassy in Benin, the Network of Women Leaders for Development (RFLD) expresses its sincere gratitude to the embassy and the U.S. Department of State for their longstanding partnership with Benin. Over the decades, they have made significant investments in local governance, recognizing that effective governance is essential for sustainable development. Their support extends beyond state institutions to encompass non-state actors, including civil society organizations, media, youth, and women. This collaborative approach has been instrumental in strengthening democratic processes and promoting inclusive governance throughout the country. RFLD values this partnership deeply, as it empowers diverse voices and fosters sustainable development in Benin.
The RFLD, with financial support from the U.S. Embassy in Benin, is organizing a departmental consultation focused on local governance. This significant event will take place in the Borgou department, specifically involving the municipalities of Kalalé, Sinendé, Pèrèrè, and Bembèrèkè, from December 16 to 18. The initiative aims to gather local leaders, community representatives, and key stakeholders to discuss pressing governance issues that directly affect the region. The primary goal of this consultation is to analyze the challenges and opportunities related to local governance. Discussions will cover a wide range of topics, including citizen participation, transparency in public resource management, and the importance of inclusive leadership. By creating a space for dialogue, RFLD hopes to encourage innovative solutions that are tailored to the unique realities of the local context.
The presence of youth and women in decision-making positions can lead to more comprehensive and equitable governance, as they often bring different perspectives and experiences to the table. The importance of inclusive governance cannot be overstated. It is essential for building trust between citizens and their leaders, particularly in communities where women and marginalized groups have historically been underrepresented. This event also represents a unique opportunity to strengthen partnerships among various stakeholders. By collaborating with the U.S. Embassy and other organizations, RFLD highlights the importance of uniting efforts to achieve common goals. Such cooperation is fundamental for ensuring sustainable and inclusive development in Borgou and beyond.
It is important to highlight that the Network of Women Leaders for Development (RFLD) is a feminist organization operating in Sub-Saharan Africa, dedicated to ending discrimination and violence against women and girls, promoting gender equality, and advocating for human rights. Established in 2012, RFLD comprises 470 members from over 60 women-led organizations across 27 countries, all working to promote and protect the rights of women and youth while ensuring their participation in decision-making spheres.
The consultation in Borgou represents a significant step towards enhancing local governance and fostering inclusive development in the region. By bringing together municipal leaders, community representatives, and key stakeholders, RFLD is facilitating crucial conversations about the future of governance in these communities. This initiative underscores the importance of collaboration, empowerment, and active citizenship in creating a more equitable and sustainable future for all residents of the Borgou department. Through ongoing efforts and the support of partners like the U.S. Embassy, the work of RFLD is paving the way for a more inclusive and participatory governance model, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued in the decision-making processes that shape the lives of citizens in Benin.
