Across borders: our work in Benin and Togo

More than 10 meters per year. That’s how much coastline Benin loses in some areas due to erosion. If this were to happen in a small country like Belgium, the impact would be disastrous. That’s why we installed a breakwater of over 5 kilometers along the coast. Through this project, we aimed not only to protect the coastline itself but also to support local communities in their economic development. But how did our organization find its way to Benin?

Rising need for support in Benin and Togo

Our journey to Benin and Togo began with an urgent call. Coastal erosion and flooding pose serious threats to the livability and development in West Africa. The situation worsened so quickly that governments in the region appealed to the World Bank for help. They sought not just a solution but an integrated plan to tackle the coastal issues.

The World Bank responded with the West Africa Coastal Resilience Investment Program (WACA ResIP). This program covers six countries, including Benin, providing access to technical expertise and funding for sustainable coastal development. The World Bank commissioned Antea Group to develop a multisectoral investment plan. We were tasked with analyzing coastal risks in Benin and Togo from a physical, socioeconomic, and institutional perspective.

Our approach for the West African coastline

First, we assessed the current risks, such as erosion, flooding, and pollution. Next, we researched possible adaptation strategies. Promising solutions were selected and evaluated based on strict criteria. After thorough classification, we presented the strategies to stakeholders and gathered feedback. We then refined the selected strategies and prepared an investment roadmap.

Throughout this process, we conducted field visits, organized participatory workshops, and held consultations with involved parties and other ongoing studies within the WACA program. This extensive work led to concrete recommendations to the World Bank, marking a significant step toward protecting the West African coastline.

Engineering is a common language we can speak all over the world.

Augustin Gallot-Lavalléé
Principal Advisor Water, Antea Group Belgium

The Start of Antea Group Benin

Due to our growing work in the region, establishing a local branch became necessary. We visited the top universities in the area and quickly built a team of over 20 local employees. Some of these colleagues even traveled to Belgium in June to celebrate our fiftieth anniversary together. This new way of working has shown us that innovative solutions can be applied anywhere, with the necessary adjustments for the region.