Benin mourns former minister Colette Sénami Agossou Houeto

Colette Sénami Agossou Houeto, a prominent Beninese figure in education, politics, and literature, passed away on September 29, 2026, at the age of 87. Born in Porto-Novo, she held several significant roles throughout her career.

As an educator, she directed the National Institute for Training and Research in Education (INFRE) from 1977 to 1981. Her professional influence extended to international organizations, including work with the African Development Bank (AfDB) on women's development policies and involvement with UNICEF.

In the political sphere, she served as the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education under President Thomas Boni Yayi in 2006. She also served as the first deputy mayor of Porto-Novo from 2008 to 2015.

Beyond her public service, Houeto was a published author, notably releasing a collection of poems in 1981 that addressed colonialism and advocated for women's rights.