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On April 12, citizens of Benin will cast their votes to choose a new president, amid a thriving economy, although not all are reaping its advantages—numerous individuals are finding it difficult to manage the increasing expenses.

The ruling party’s candidate, Romuald Wadagni, is vigorously promoting the nation’s economic achievements from his ten years in the role of finance minister.

“If you’re looking to start a business in Benin, it can now be done within an hour. This was not the situation 15 years ago; at that time, you had to wait in line and return — sometimes after two weeks, three weeks, or even a month. Now, you can establish your business online from the comfort of your bed. This applies to many administrative processes in the country today,” said Claudia Togbe, a business owner.

The International Monetary Fund reports that Benin’s economy expanded by 7% in the previous year, positioning it as one of the most consistent economies in West Africa.

However, hardship continues to be deeply rooted in rural regions and the northern area.

“If you head to the market right now, ginger is priced at 500 [fcfa]. Tomatoes — actually, everything has become costly. There’s nothing that’s affordable these days. Absolutely nothing,” stated Aliou Falilatou, a food seller.

During Talon’s leadership, the nation experienced strong growth over almost ten years, fueled by agriculture, commerce, and a significant port development in the economic center Cotonou, which made Benin an essential transit route for neighboring landlocked countries. Infrastructure has also seen expansion.

Divided voters

Roch Gbenou, a government employee based in Cotonou, mentioned that two major concerns are prominent for him ahead of Sunday’s election: fair allocation of resources, and the revival of democratic liberties, which “seem to have been significantly limited” in recent times.

Gbenou, nevertheless, expressed that he has minimal optimism regarding the election, stating that “it will ultimately only serve to validate a decision already taken,” implying it will not be a legitimate procedure.

Mathias Salanon, a former law enforcement officer, stated that he thinks Talon has performed effectively and wishes the upcoming president to bring stability to the nation’s economic and political conditions.

“Over the course of more than 50 years, I have never witnessed such a strong determination to advance the nation as during President Patrice Talon’s 10-year tenure,” he stated.

For Sofiath Akadiri, a local from Cotonou, the key campaign topics she focuses on are healthcare access, education, and employment opportunities.

“We also require social justice and the revival of democratic principles,” she stated.