Beninese Véronique Tognifode elected as head of the SWEDD+ project’s Regional Steering Committee

At the conclusion of the ministerial meeting of the member countries of the SWEDD+ project in Cotonou this Friday, July 4, 2025, Benin was elected to chair the Regional Steering Committee (CRP) for the coming year. Madame Véronique Tognifodé, Minister of Social Affairs and Microfinance, thus takes the lead of this regional body, succeeding Burkina Faso.

This choice of the Beninese Minister of Social Affairs and Microfinance symbolizes the recognition of the efforts made by the Beninese government, especially in the promotion of women’s empowerment and girls’ rights, under the guidance of President Patrice Talon. Before this election, Madame Tognifodé already held the post of vice president of the committee, an experience that gives her a deep understanding of the issues and expectations surrounding the project. The vice presidency of the CRP will now be taken over by Senegal.

It is worth noting that this change in leadership comes at a critical time for SWEDD+, a regional project focused on improving reproductive health and rights, as well as strengthening the empowerment of women and girls in member countries.