“I heard you”: Romuald Wadagni reacts to the situation of dialysis patients

The issue of people suffering from kidney failure came up during Romuald Wadagni’s visit to the Borgou Departmental Hospital in Parakou. While in northern Benin, the president went to the hospital’s emergency unit on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, to speak with patients, their relatives and health workers.

During the visit, one citizen took the opportunity to draw the head of state’s attention to the situation of dialysis patients. “Don’t forget the dialysis patients,” he said.

In response, Romuald Wadagni showed he was listening to the concern. “I heard you,” replied Patrice Talon’s successor.

A brief answer, but one that comes as access to dialysis remains a concern for many families in Benin. Dialysis sessions, which are essential for patients whose kidneys no longer function properly, represent a major financial burden for patients and their loved ones.

Faced with these difficulties, some patients and families turn to solidarity appeals and fundraising campaigns to finance treatment. That situation is fuelling calls for the state to provide more support for dialysis patients.

A need to strengthen healthcare provision

The dialysis issue comes as the government announces plans to strengthen healthcare services in the north of the country. The construction of an international hospital centre in Parakou is among the projects announced to improve access to specialist care.

During his visit to the Borgou hospital, Romuald Wadagni also spoke with patients and health professionals to hear about their care conditions and the difficulties they face every day.

For dialysis patients and their families, the appeal made to the president is above all another call for the authorities to pay attention to the difficulties linked to kidney failure treatment. The head of state’s response, “I heard you,” now leaves room for possible concrete measures in support of these patients.