Benin: African Development Bank Group flood control programme makes progress in four towns

Bank Group delegation reviews progress on the Secondary Towns Stormwater Drainage Programme and hears from residents

For residents of Bohicon, Abomey, Ouidah and Porto-Novo in Benin, the hope of less flooding is gradually becoming a reality. In all four towns, the results of the Secondary Towns Stormwater Drainage Programme (PAPVS) in Benin, financed by the African Development Bank Group, are starting to be felt.

The programme aims to reduce the risk of flooding by improving how stormwater drains away. Across the benefiting municipalities, construction is visible: new collectors, gutters and other infrastructure are emerging and bringing improvements to living conditions.

From 16 to 28 October 2026, a team from the African Development Bank Group visited the project sites, meeting with government officials, contractors and supervision teams to review progress and agree on ways to speed up disbursement and implementation. The delegation also met project beneficiaries, gaining insight into the impact on the ground. Communities and local authorities welcomed the new latrines, school fencing, health centres, canteens and communal spaces.

"We are pleased with what has been achieved. It is a major step forward for our school," said Mohamed Amouzounoun, headteacher of the COHO General Education College in Abomey. "But there are still needs to be met, and we hope the project will help us set up a dining area for pupils and provide us with tables and chairs."

In Abomey, Bohicon and Ouidah, local authorities are seeking further support from the Bank Group to address other priority needs and support social and economic development. Bohicon wants a new school added to the planned infrastructure. Abomey is seeking the renovation of Goho Square and the reconstruction of the statue of King Béhanzin. Ouidah wants more young people from the municipality to be recruited to work on the programme.

"For Abomey, a city renowned for its tourism, history and royal heritage, the project's interventions are also essential for showcasing our heritage and enhancing its appeal," said Franck Kpassassi, mayor of Abomey. "We are calling for the regeneration of the historic Goho Square, a flagship project that builds on the momentum of the PAPVS. We are counting on the support of the African Development Bank to drive these priorities forward for the benefit of the local communities."

In all four towns, the Bank Group's drainage programme goes beyond building infrastructure. It aims to make the towns more resilient to flooding and to ensure communities are healthier and safer. Through the Benin Secondary Towns Stormwater Drainage Programme, the Bank Group reaffirms its commitment to lasting change in living conditions by placing local communities at the heart of its projects.

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