The extensive tour led by Djibril Mama Cisse, Bénin’s Minister of Interior and Public Security, proceeded on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, with critical stops in the northern cities of Kandi and Parakou.

During this important leg of the tour, the Minister and his accompanying delegation meticulously inspected several key installations. Their visits included the base of the Special Multipurpose Intervention Group (GSPI) in Kandi, the regional civil protection agency headquarters for both Alibori and Borgou departments, the Republican Police’s mobile intervention company in Parakou, and the Departmental Directorate for Interior and Public Security in Parakou. The overarching goal of these engagements is to gain a direct, unfiltered understanding of the internal security landscape, thereby enabling a more precise refinement of strategies and operational plans for public safety across Bénin.

Addressing the assembled Republican Police officers, spanning all categories and ranks, at the Special Intervention Group base in Kandi, the Minister underscored his objective. « I want my presence here to be understood as my genuine desire to listen, » he articulated. In both Parakou and Kandi, Minister Cisse actively fostered an environment where personnel felt empowered to openly voice the challenges they encounter daily. He emphasized that resolving these difficulties, with support from leadership and the government, would significantly bolster the effectiveness of their actions and optimize resource utilization.

Among the critical issues brought to light during these discussions were concerns regarding career management, promotion pathways, the duration of assignments in high-risk zones, and perceived deficiencies in motivation. Personnel also raised points about the absence or inadequacy of hazard pay, a shortage of specialized skills, and overall human resource limitations. Furthermore, practical infrastructure challenges were highlighted, including the lack of GSM network coverage in certain remote localities, incidents of communication pylon sabotage, and the insufficient protection afforded to some police stations.

In response to these diverse and pressing concerns, senior officials including the Director General of the Republican Police, the Ministry’s Secretary General, and other delegation members stepped forward. They provided detailed explanations of ongoing initiatives designed to address specific problems, outlined current strategic deliberations, and presented potential solutions being explored, particularly those aimed at enhancing the career trajectory of security agents.

Minister Djibril Mama Cisse extended profound gratitude, on behalf of the government and its leader, to the security forces for their unwavering bravery and profound sense of sacrifice. He stressed that it is through their tireless dedication that the people of Bénin are able to pursue their daily lives in peace and tranquility. « It is thanks to you that the Republic stands strong, » he affirmed, acknowledging their vital role in national stability.

« I have not come to make empty promises. However, we must rise to meet these challenges, » he declared. With this resolute message, Djibril Mama Cisse urged all components of the public security forces to commit fully to their duties. He underscored that the government’s paramount priority is the resolution of the issues raised, ensuring that Bénin remains secure and continues its developmental journey without impediment. This commitment is a key aspect of current Africa politics English discussions surrounding national security and progress.