Benin commemorates its 65th year of independence, emphasizing the desire for enhanced collaboration with Kuwait and a strengthening of Afro-Arab relationships.
In a recent development, the Kuwaiti ambassador has invited Kuwaiti companies to invest in key sectors such as agri-industry, logistics, tourism, renewable energy, and digital services in Benin. This invitation comes as the bilateral relationship between Kuwait and Benin continues to grow, with a focus on investment, diplomacy, and labor.
The current cooperation between the two countries is marked by ongoing developments in investment and development, diplomatic engagement, and labor agreements. Kuwait, through the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED), has provided 14 development loans totalling about 42 million Kuwaiti Dinar to Benin. These loans reflect a strong financial and development partnership between the two nations. Kuwaiti charities, notably the Direct Aid Society, also play an active role in humanitarian and development projects in Benin.
On the diplomatic front, there is ongoing coordination, including preparations for an official visit by Benin’s Foreign Minister to Kuwait. The ministers of both countries have met previously to discuss mutual interests and future cooperation, indicating sustained and planned diplomatic dialogue.
Regarding labor agreements, negotiations are still underway to regulate and protect the rights of workers between the two countries. Kuwait is aiming for agreements similar to its recent labor treaty with Ethiopia, which allows Ethiopian workers to freely enter Kuwait. However, differences in legislation mean some provisions require careful amendments and additional time before finalization.
The Kuwait-Benin relationship spans over 50 years and is marked by deep-rooted ties and fruitful cooperation across various sectors. The ambassador recently commended the positive contributions and strong values of the Beninese community in Kuwait, which now exceeds 10,000 individuals, most of whom are employed as domestic workers.
The Embassy of Benin in Kuwait celebrated its 65th Independence Day, attended by the Deputy Assistant Foreign Minister for African Affairs, ambassadors accredited to Kuwait, invited guests, and the Beninese community. Benin's Ambassador to Kuwait, H.E. Professor Baderou Dine Aguemon, described the celebration as a collective pledge toward a brighter and more collaborative future. He highlighted Benin's steady economic growth, political stability, and attractive tax incentives as reasons for investment.
The ambassador also urged the Beninese community to remain unified and continue enhancing Benin's reputation abroad. He emphasized that modern Benin is a forward-looking, open, and ambitious republic, eager to strengthen strategic partnerships with Kuwait and other Arab nations.
This latest situation, as of mid-2025, underscores Kuwait’s role as a financier of development projects in Benin and both countries' intention to deepen diplomatic and labor ties. The relationship aligns with Kuwait’s broader Arab-African partnership interests but is still evolving, especially in labor cooperation.
- The diplomatic dialogue between Kuwait and Benin, as shown in the meetings between ministers and the preparations for a visiting Foreign Minister, indicates a focus on policy-and-legislation related to mutual interests and future cooperation.
- The ongoing negotiations to regulate and protect the rights of workers between the two countries demonstrate a critical aspect of their general-news agenda, as they strive for agreements similar to those established with other nations.
