In Benin, the Association of African Election Authorities (AAEA), in close cooperation with the European Centre for Electoral Support (ECES), is currently implementing a Peer Learning Mission in Cotonou, Benin, bringing together representatives of Election Management Bodies (EMBs) from across the African continent. The mission is implemented under the Pro-Electoral Integrity project, funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and carried out in partnership with the African Union Commission Department of Political Affairs Peace and Security.
Held in the lead-up to Benin’s 2026 presidential elections, the Peer Learning Mission convenes national electoral stakeholders in Benin alongside Electoral Management Bodies representatives from several African countries, including the Deputy Chairman of the Electoral Commission of Ghana the President of the Comissão Nacional de Eleições (CNE) of Guinea Bissau, a Commissioner of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission of Kenya, the Director of Electoral Operations of the Direction générale des Élections of Senegal, the Director of the Legal Office of the National Electoral Commission of Angola, a Commissioner of the National Independent Election Commission of Somalia, as well as the Legal Director and a Senior District Electoral Officer of the Independent Electoral Commission of Lesotho.
Taking place over several days in Cotonou, the mission provides a structured and practical platform for peer-to-peer learning through technical exchanges and field engagements. Participants are able to share experiences, compare electoral practices, and collectively analyse legal, operational, and technological challenges faced across diverse electoral contexts.
During the first days of the mission, delegates engaged in high-level institutional meetings aimed at strengthening their understanding of Benin’s electoral framework and governance architecture. These included a briefing with the Autonomous National Electoral Commission of Benin, attended by its President, Sacca Lafia, as well as exchanges with the Haute Autorité de l’Audiovisuel et de la Communication, which plays a key role in regulating the media landscape during electoral periods.
Through this initiative, and in partnership with ECES, the AAEA continues to promote continental and sub-regional cooperation among electoral institutions. The mission highlights peer learning as a key instrument for strengthening electoral integrity, fostering institutional resilience, and supporting democratic governance across Africa and beyond.