The atmosphere in Pierre Gbenou Tito Dossou’s bakery in Okoun-Sèmè, Benin is filled with the bustling sound of dough being kneaded. Thanks to a now reliable power supply, the once energy-starved business is thriving. Orders for bread, croissants, and chocolate pastries are being met on time, a significant improvement Dossou credits to the stable electricity.
Reflecting on the bakery’s early struggles, Dossou explains, “I endured electricity shortages for over a decade. Generators failed, and we couldn’t connect to the grid due to the remote location. I had to rely on insufficient power from neighboring sources.” His luck turned around last year (2023) when new infrastructure brought consistent electricity to the district.
“I felt like I hit the jackpot,” Dossou says with a smile. The new facilities not only provided reliable power but also brought streetlights, making the streets safer. “Since then, our operations have been smooth. Even incidents of burglary have decreased,” he adds.
Others like Moussa Moudachirou, in his 30s, have also seen a positive change. “Before, we had to borrow electricity from others, but now we have our own meter at home,” he explains. With their new digital meter, the family’s expenses have decreased significantly. “Now, we can make a 5,000 FCFA top-up last for three weeks,” Moudachirou says, expressing gratitude to the project’s supporters and urging them to extend the benefits to more people.
The Dossou and Moudachirou families are among the beneficiaries of Benin’s Sub-Transmission and Distribution System Restructuring and Extension Project, funded by the African Development Fund. Launched in 2018 and expected to be completed in late 2025, the project aims to enhance electricity access in major urban areas and secondary towns across Benin.
For many, like Mouniratou Tiamiou, who used to deal with frequent power outages, life has significantly improved. “Power cuts damaged our appliances, and burglars took advantage of the darkness. But since the project illuminated the area, we have had no issues,” she says, grateful for the safety and stability the electricity project has brought.
As businesses in Okoun-Seme flourish and homes become more secure, the project is proving to be a crucial boost for Benin’s energy sector.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB).
About the African Development Bank Group:
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) is the premier multilateral financing institution dedicated to Africa’s development. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NSF). The AfDB has a field presence in 41 African countries, with an external office in Japan, and contributes to the economic development and social progress of its 54 regional member states. For more information: www.AfDB.org