Located in West Africa, a region plagued by political and civil unrest, the country of Benin stands out as an example of political stability, freedom of speech, and an impressive tolerance for dissent. Following 20 years of a Marxist government, Benin embarked, in the early nineties, on a transition to democracy and a market-based free enterprise economy. Benin has continued to make progress in its democratic experiment by successfully conducting three consecutive peaceful presidential elections since 1990 and municipal elections in 1998. USAID is pleased to have been associated with these achievements.

The US development relationship with Benin dates over 40 years. During this time, the United States and the Government of Benin have been partners in Benin's economic development and have paved the way for continued social and economic progress. All sectors of the economy, especially education, health, agriculture, business, and the environment, have benefited from the bilateral assistance provided by USAID. Today, Benin boasts resilient and developing democratic institutions, a growing market economy, and a healthier and more-educated population. Thousands of Beninese men and women from all parts of the country and of all ages now enjoy a better quality of life as a result of the development programs initiated by USAID, other donors, and the Government of Benin.

Rudolph Thomas, USAID/Benin Mission Director.

Nevertheless, despite these achievements, much remains to be done as Benin faces social and economic challenges in fighting corruption, increasing private investment and economic growth, improving health care, and reducing illiteracy. Our objective is to continue to provide assistance to Benin by focusing on three sectors: basic education, family health, and governance. In education the emphasis is on a national primary education reform program that emphasizes quality learning through training of teachers, providing text books, improving pedagogical methods, establishing village parent/teacher associations, and promoting girls education.

The Mission's family health program helps to improve family health by increasing access to family planning, reducing maternal and child mortality, reducing sexually transmitted infections and combating the spread of HIV/AIDS.

Our governance program focuses on promoting decentralization, fighting against child trafficking and corruption, promoting women's legal rights and improving household incomes in rural areas.

More detailed information about our programs, including success stories, can be found on our website.

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