Awaou Baco engages with SMEs, artisans and youth in northern Bénin

The Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises and Employment Promotion, Awaou Baco, held working meetings with entrepreneurs, craftspeople, livestock farmers and young participants in the AZOLI program across the departments of Alibori and Borgou on July 28 and 29, 2026.

Minister Baco evaluates support programs for youth and vulnerable groups

The two-day tour aimed to assess government initiatives supporting young people, women, craftspeople and people with disabilities. It included visits to vocational training centers, SMEs and community projects designed to foster economic inclusion.

Alibori: meetings with local entrepreneurs and vocational training

On the first day, Minister Baco began in the Alibori department. After meeting local leaders, she traveled to Malanville to interact with SME owners, auto repair technicians and rabbit breeders. The visit continued to Nikki, where she toured the vocational training center for artisans. Discussions focused on training opportunities and pathways to employment for graduates.

In Kandi, a working session with local youth explored public programs in training, employment and entrepreneurship. Participants highlighted challenges and welcomed the minister’s commitment to improving access to resources.

Borgou: AZOLI program and support for people with disabilities

The delegation then moved to Borgou. In Parakou, a gathering with over 50 young people undergoing training under the AZOLI program addressed their learning experiences and future job prospects. The minister also met 46 people with disabilities trained in shoe making and leatherwork, emphasizing inclusion and skills development.

At ASAFMA, a local SME supported by the National SME Development Agency, the Entrepreneurship Support Project and the Crafts Guild, discussions centered on industrial fabrication for the agri-food sector and the company’s growth trajectory.

Digital platforms introduced to simplify access to public support

Throughout the tour, Minister Baco introduced two digital platforms—SICA (sica.anpe.bj) and e-PME—to SME owners and artisans. These tools provide streamlined access to government funding, business registration, mentorship and job placement services.

The minister encouraged local entrepreneurs to leverage these resources and remain persistent in their business ventures. Government sources report ongoing reforms and investments to strengthen youth and women’s employment and entrepreneurship nationwide.