Benin’s Highway Code strengthens protection for pedestrians
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on La Nouvelle Tribune
Benin’s new Highway Code contains 122 articles divided into six titles and strengthens protection for pedestrians, cyclists and other vulnerable road users. It provides in particular for cycle lanes, more road safety education and controls on the use of pavements, according to La Nouvelle Tribune.
Benin’s new Highway Code provides for measures to strengthen the protection of pedestrians and other vulnerable road users, as well as the inclusion of cycle lanes in future road projects. The president of the Law Commission, Orden Alladatin, presented these provisions at a press conference, La Nouvelle Tribune reports.
The text also provides for penalties for occupying pavements and areas reserved for pedestrians. Road safety education is to be strengthened, including in primary schools. The Code’s requirements must also be taken into account when roads are designed and built.
Minister for the Living Environment Georges Alé said the regulations needed to implement the law were being prepared. They may be submitted to the Council of Ministers or adopted through ministerial orders after promulgation. The National Road Safety Centre and other organisations are also planning awareness-raising activities.
The Code, revised from seven titles and 121 articles to six titles and 122 articles, replaces regulations based on a 1956 order. It follows the 122-article code adopted by Benin and the developments highlighted by Louis Koukpemedji, also published on 27 October 2026.
