Benin’s security partnership with the North Dakota National Guard was the primary focus of discussions in Cotonou on Sept. 15, 2026, when Brigadier General Mitchell Johnson met with Djibril Mama Cissé, according to the Ministry of the Interior and Public Security. The U.S. delegation presented several new cooperation proposals to the Beninese minister delegate during the meeting, building on an existing relationship.
Expanding U.S.-Benin Security Cooperation in Cotonou
The high-level talks follow previous engagements between the two nations. In September 2025, Mitchell Johnson—then serving as the commander of the North Dakota National Guard—visited the Dessa military barracks in Allada for a working session focused on military training, counter-IED operations, and disaster relief assistance, according to ministry records. During the September 2026 meeting in Cotonou, the American delegation outlined specific areas where the two institutions can deepen their collaboration.
Did you know? The North Dakota National Guard’s partnership with Benin includes ongoing collaboration with the Agence béninoise de Protection civile (Beninese Agency for Civil Protection).
According to the ministry’s readout, discussions centered on bolstering existing ties with the Agence béninoise de Protection civile alongside launching new support initiatives across multiple shared sectors. Djibril Mama Cissé expressed satisfaction with the ongoing partnership, noting it complements other partnerships managed by his department on security and civil protection. Since taking office in May 2026, the minister has prioritized frontline security personnel, including a June tour of the Republican Police and the civil protection agency to evaluate working conditions and resource needs.
Plan International Proposes New Five-Year Strategy
Beyond military talks, the interior ministry engaged with humanitarian partners on the same day. Djibril Mama Cissé met with a delegation from Plan International Bénin, led by Resident Representative Bernadette Fongbé, according to official reports. The agenda covered the organization’s new five-year strategic plan, its institutional partnership with the Agence béninoise de Protection civile, and its eligibility file for the Disaster Management Fund.
Both delegations reviewed potential avenues for collaboration. According to the ministry, the two parties agreed to establish a dedicated working group to maintain momentum and advance the identified cooperation projects.
Akpro-Missérété Requests Police and Civil Protection Support
Local government leaders also sought enhanced security coordination during a separate audience on Sept. 15, 2026. Akpro-Missérété Mayor Joseph Hounkanrin, accompanied by a delegation from the Supervisory Council, presented local security and civil protection concerns directly to Djibril Mama Cissé.
The municipal delegation requested reinforced support for the Republican Police alongside better coordination mechanisms between local authorities, territorial administration, and defense and security forces. According to municipal summaries, discussions also emphasized public awareness campaigns targeting drug abuse, cybercrime, and traffic safety.
These consultations form part of a broader diplomatic push by the ministry. Earlier in September, Djibril Mama Cissé hosted delegations from the African Union Commission and the Hanns Seidel Foundation to address security, cooperation, and governance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main topic of the Sept. 15, 2026 meeting in Cotonou?
The meeting focused on expanding the security partnership between Benin and the North Dakota National Guard, with U.S. representatives presenting new cooperation proposals to Minister Delegate Djibril Mama Cissé.
What areas does the partnership between Benin and the North Dakota National Guard cover?
According to ministry records, the collaboration covers military training, counter-IED (improvised explosive device) operations, disaster relief assistance, and joint initiatives with the Agence béninoise de Protection civile.
Who else did Minister Djibril Mama Cissé meet with in September 2026?
The minister held talks with a Plan International Bénin delegation led by Bernadette Fongbé regarding disaster management and five-year strategies, and received Mayor Joseph Hounkanrin of Akpro-Missérété regarding local policing and civil protection needs.
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