The Beninese Armed Forces (FAB) have reached a new milestone in their civil-military strategy by officially delivering critical water and education infrastructure to several northern municipalities.
These initiatives, carried out under the umbrella of Operation Mirador, aim to bolster community resilience and foster trust between the military and local populations in a region frequently targeted by extremist threats.
Since late February 2026, the villages of Makrou, Yinkinin, and Becket, alongside other communities in the Kouandé and Kérou communes, have gained access to sustainable potable water. The military installed modern boreholes powered by 1,500-watt solar pumps, ensuring a reliable water supply for these remote areas. Beyond utility projects, the FAB also focused on education by constructing and fully equipping a three-classroom block at the CEG 1 secondary school in Pehunco, providing over 400 desks to enhance the learning environment for local students.
Military officials emphasize that these humanitarian actions are a core component of a modern security approach. Rather than relying solely on tactical maneuvers, Operation Mirador uses community engagement to address the essential needs of citizens. This “co-production of security” is designed to make local populations active partners in maintaining regional stability.
The projects were made possible through the Operation Mirador civil-military committee with significant backing from international partners, including the United States Department of Defense, Spirit of America and Strategic Stabilization Advisors
Local and administrative authorities in Pehunco welcomed the handovers, noting that such investments are vital for the socioeconomic development of northern Benin. By transforming the military from a purely defensive force into a partner for development, the government aims to replace vulnerability with a sustainable security framework grounded in mutual cooperation.
RNK/te/lb/abj/APA