The government of Bénin has initiated a large-scale effort to resolve long-standing salary arrears and unlock career progression for public sector employees. Finance Minister Romuald Wadagni’s team is leading this drive, signalling a commitment to worker welfare.
In a directive issued on 5 June 2026, Deputy Secretary General of the Finance Ministry, Léa Estelle Honfo Akpovo, announced the launch of an operation to definitively address delays in career advancements within the civil service. The exercise runs throughout June 2026 and covers all advancements scheduled to take effect on or before 31 December 2026, including those from previous years.
Why this matters for civil servants
Under this initiative, the state will rectify the situation for employees in two key ways:
- Career updates: All pending files will be processed so that each agent receives the grade or step they are entitled to.
- Back payments: Salary increases and arrears linked to these advancements will be disbursed to beneficiaries.
To ensure efficiency, the government is deploying a modern software system called Sigrhp (Integrated Human Resources and Payroll Management System). This tool enables faster, fairer, and more transparent handling of records. By taking this step, Minister Romuald Wadagni demonstrates that state modernisation does not come at the expense of workers but rather aims to provide them with greater financial security.
No time to waste
The administration is moving swiftly and effectively. Heads of all ministries and institutions have been instructed to immediately assemble the files of affected agents. They must promptly submit the list of civil servants eligible for advancement (for 2026 and earlier) to the Directorate General of the Civil Service. This urgency underlines the authority’s determination to resolve public employees’ issues once and for all, ensuring everyone receives the fruits of their labour.
