The Minister of the Interior and Public Security, Djibril Mama Cisse, continued his field assessment on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, with strategic visits to the cities of Kandi and Parakou. This mission is part of a broader effort to evaluate internal security realities and refine the nation’s public safety strategies.
Evaluating field operations in northern Bénin
During the tour, the Minister and his delegation inspected several key facilities, including the Special Polyvalent Intervention Group (GSPI) base in Kandi and the departmental civil protection agencies for Alibori and Borgou. In Parakou, the focus shifted to the Republican Police’s mobile intervention unit and the Departmental Directorate of the Interior and Public Security. These visits allowed for a direct assessment of how security plans are being implemented on the ground.
Addressing a gathering of police officers of all ranks at the GSPI base in Kandi, Minister Djibril Mama Cisse emphasized his commitment to open dialogue. “I want my presence here to be understood as a genuine desire to listen. I have come to hear from you,” he stated, encouraging personnel in both Kandi and Parakou to speak candidly about the obstacles they face.
Addressing the concerns of the Republican Police
The discussions highlighted several critical challenges affecting the efficiency of the security forces. Key issues raised by the officers included:
- Career management and the transparency of promotions.
- The duration of deployments in high-risk areas.
- Insufficient risk premiums and a general lack of motivation.
- A shortage of specialized personnel and overall human resource deficits.
- Technical hurdles, such as the absence of GSM networks in certain regions and the sabotage of communication towers.
- The need for better physical protection for various police stations.
In response to these grievances, the Director General of the Republican Police and the Secretary General of the Ministry detailed ongoing initiatives. They outlined current reflections and potential solutions aimed at improving career paths and operational conditions for the agents.
A commitment to national stability
Minister Djibril Mama Cisse took the opportunity to convey the government’s gratitude for the bravery shown by the security forces. He noted that their dedication is what allows the citizens of Bénin to live in peace and for the Republic to remain stable. “It is thanks to your sacrifice that the nation stands firm,” he remarked.
While the Minister clarified that he was not there to make empty promises, he stressed the urgency of meeting these challenges head-on. He called upon all branches of the public security forces to remain fully committed, asserting that resolving these internal issues is a top priority for the government to ensure the continued development and safety of Bénin.