(Cotonou, Benin | Tuesday, March 14, 2023) – As part of Peace Corps Director Carol Spahn’s visit to Benin to celebrate the 55th anniversary of Peace Corps’ partnership in the country, she met with the President of the Republic of Benin Patrice Talon, Republic of Benin Minister of Justice and Legislation Sévérin Quenum and United States Ambassador to the Republic of Benin Brian Shukan in Cotonou on Tuesday, March 14.

During the meeting, Director Spahn, President Talon, Minister Quenum, and Ambassador Shukan reflected on the long history of the Peace Corps in Benin and the importance of connecting across cultures. They discussed a range of shared priorities, including the importance of English education to support youth development and create economic opportunity. President Talon and Director Spahn also discussed the Peace Corps’ commitment to advance agriculture, health, and education in multiple regions across Benin, in conjunction with the Government of Benin, community counterparts, educators, technical skill advocates, and youth leaders.

Peace Corps Director Carol Spahn met with the Minister of Secondary Education, Technical and Vocational Training Kouaro Chabi this week to discuss the importance of English education. Director Spahn also met with Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fishing Gaston Cossi Dossouhoui to discuss opportunities for supporting organic certifications and food security.

Benin is one of the Peace Corps’ longest partner countries. The agency has maintained operations in the country since 1968 and more than 2,315 Volunteers have served to date. Peace Corps Benin currently has 19 volunteers working in the agriculture, education, and health sectors, and the Peace Corps committed to bringing more Volunteers to Benin.