The first British and Francophone Business Forum for West and Central Africa has just been held in Benin. Mireille D’Oliveira Richards, CEO of Benin Connect, was present at this major business event, participating from start to finish in the debates. A Beninese living in the UK for over 20 years, she put her experience and know-how into play to make a difference for her country. The meeting she took part in with British companies in Cotonou last June was an opportunity that both parties seized. The proof, more than 4 months later, is in the form of a spectacular return from the partners who visited the land of the Amazons.
The UK Export Credit Agency has granted £106.5 million ($123 million) to the Republic of Benin for the construction of a new ministerial town. The Mufg Bank also granted £68.6 million to build a new road linking Benin and Togo, which will facilitate trade between the African countries. The Forum, held in London on Wednesday October 19, 2022 and attended by Mireille D’Oliveira Richards, was a great opportunity for Benin, thanks to the Benin Connect company, which gives her country a high profile and attracts British partners. This valiant woman also holds British nationality, and is an asset for the current government, which should draw on her experience to help Benin’s international development.