The 6th edition of “African Ambition 2024” took place on November 19 and 20, 2024 at the Ministry of Finance and Industry in France. A benchmark business event between Africa and France, organized by Business France, under the auspices of the French Ministry of Economy, Finance and Industrial and Digital Sovereignty, as well as the Ministry of European and Foreign Affairs under the patronage of the President of the European Union of the French Republic, the Mr. Emmanuel Macron.
Being an essential annual meeting for Franco-African relations, this platform brings together ministers, ambassadors and business delegations from the African continent. The objective is to strengthen and accelerate economic and commercial links between France and Africa.
On behalf of Benin, the delegation was headed by the Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts. Mr. Babalola Jean-Michel H. Abimbola spoke on November 20, during the Roundtable which focused on the theme “cultural and creative industries in Africa, which are drivers of economic and social development”. The Beninese minister in charge of culture presented the political vision of the Government of President Patrice Talon. Since 2016, Benin aims to make the sector the second pillar that creates wealth and jobs after agriculture. This requires an investment of more than 2 billion euros to position Benin at the heart of Africa’s creative economy. Even better, it is about creating cultural and creative industries (CCI), the second lever for creating wealth and jobs. And the major actions initiated to achieve this include, among other things, the construction and renovation of cultural facilities according to international standards; implementing the reform of the regulatory framework, developing the resources of public and private actors; improving digital infrastructure; improving the business environment in the field of art through tax exemptions and incentive measures; attract large operators; and financing mechanisms adapted and focused on value chains.
The creation of the Cultural and Creative District (QCC) on an area of 15 hectares in Cotonou is bringing together the entire value chain with the Arena and the Virtual Cinema, and the construction of the Contemporary Art Museum of Cotonou.
Minister Abimbola also explained the Executive’s cultural and economic diplomacy aimed at positioning Benin as a gateway to Africa and a hub for collectors and professionals in the art world. His presence on the international circuit thanks to the success of the traveling exhibition of his contemporary art is testimony to the effectiveness of this diplomacy. In addition, he addressed the economic impact of culture, especially the activity of local operators, cultural events, especially festivals and other artistic events open to the general public, and the rebalancing of economic development in favor of regions and areas outside of big cities by promoting their cultural specificities.
he launched a call for partnerships for investment and operating contracts and for technical expertise to support our country.
It should be noted that Minister Abimbola just started his presentation to companies interested in Benin and technical and strategic partnerships in the ICCs…
How can young entrepreneurs in Benin leverage France’s expertise to enhance their creative industries?
Interview: Bridging Economies Between Africa and France
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! We’re fortunate to have with us Mr. Babalola Jean-Michel H. Abimbola, the Minister of Tourism, Culture, and the Arts from Benin, who just returned from the 6th edition of “African Ambition 2024” held in France. Minister Abimbola, thank you for joining us today!
Minister Abimbola: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to share insights from such an important event.
Editor: The “African Ambition 2024” event gathered significant stakeholders from both Africa and France. What were the highlights of your participation there?
Minister Abimbola: One of the primary highlights was our focused roundtable discussion on cultural and creative industries as drivers of economic and social development. My goal was to communicate Benin’s aspirations and strategic vision under President Patrice Talon’s administration. We believe that cultural and creative industries can be a significant contributor to our economy, making it the second pillar of our wealth creation after agriculture.
Editor: That’s fascinating! You mentioned the ambition to invest over 2 billion euros. What specific initiatives does Benin plan to implement with this investment?
Minister Abimbola: Yes, the investment will focus on several key areas. Primarily, we want to construct and renovate cultural facilities that meet international standards. This means not just buildings, but also creating spaces for artists and cultural practitioners to thrive. Additionally, we are reforming our regulatory framework to better support the growth of these industries, making it easier for entrepreneurs to start and operate creative businesses.
Editor: The cultural and creative industries are indeed vital to a nation’s identity. How does this initiative also aim to create jobs and wealth in Benin?
Minister Abimbola: The creative economy is incredibly dynamic. By investing in cultural enterprises, we can stimulate job creation across multiple sectors – from arts to tourism, from technology to fashion. Our vision is not just to grow Benin’s economy but to position it as a hub for Africa’s creative economy, attracting both local and international investments.
Editor: That’s an ambitious goal! How do you see the partnership between Africa and France developing in this context?
Minister Abimbola: Relations between Africa and France are crucial, especially in knowledge and culture sharing. Events like “African Ambition 2024” create avenues for dialog and collaboration. France can provide not only financial support but also expertise in developing cultural industries. This partnership should be a two-way street, enriching both parties.
Editor: Given the growing focus on sustainability, how does your ministry plan to incorporate sustainable practices into the development of creative industries in Benin?
Minister Abimbola: Sustainability is at the heart of our approach. We are committed to implementing practices that preserve our cultural heritage while fostering innovation. This includes promoting local materials for construction, supporting eco-friendly initiatives in arts, and ensuring that our growth does not compromise our environment or cultural identity.
Editor: It sounds like a well-rounded approach! what message would you want to convey to young entrepreneurs in Benin who are part of the cultural and creative sectors?
Minister Abimbola: I would encourage them to be bold, innovate, and to embrace their cultural roots. The government is here to support them with the necessary frameworks and partnerships. They should not hesitate to tap into their creativity, as the future belongs to those who are willing to nurture their talents and contribute to transforming our economy.
Editor: Thank you so much, Minister Abimbola. Your insights today truly highlight the importance of cultural and creative industries in forging a more prosperous future for Benin and its relationship with France.
Minister Abimbola: Thank you for having me. It’s essential for us to keep these conversations going!