USAID's Strategy in Benin

Benin continues to make progress in building a stable democracy. Outside observers have praised Benin for having organized three legislative elections and three presidential elections that were generally judged to have been transparent, peaceful and fair. Benin is now poised to hold municipal elections for the first time ever. Success with these elections will place financial and political power in the hands of local communities. Benin also is considered to have good records for human rights and freedom of the press.

The economic outlook for the country is encouraging. Real GDP growth is forecast at over five percent for 2003 and is expected to continue rising in 2004. Evidence of heightened economic activity abounds; however, Benin still faces formidable challenges to achieving sustainable development.

According to the United Nations Development Report for 2002, Benin ranks 153 among 173 countries in terms of overall quality of life. An estimated 33 percent of the population lives below the poverty line. Overall literacy for persons aged 15 to 49 is 37.4 percent. The mortality rate for children under five years of age is 158 per 1,000. According to UNAIDS figures, prevalence of HIV/AIDS among adults is estimated at 4.1 percent. Benin's estimated population growth will make goals for social and economic development even more difficult to achieve.

Benin continues to be of interest to the United States for the promotion of democracy, stability, and security in the region, as well as the promotion of U.S. exports and investment. Benin is also a strong ally of the United States in the fight against terrorism.

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