Maritime security: Benin deploys its navy for the 2026 Grand African Nemo exercise

The Gulf of Guinea is hosting the ninth Grand African Nemo exercise from October 27 to November 6, 2026, with 19 African navies and seven partner navies, including France’s. In Benin, maneuvers will take place between Ouidah and Sèmè-Podji, where teams will train from November 2 to 4 to combat accidental oil pollution. A mock trial on November 5 will assess judicial authorities’ ability to handle crimes committed at sea. The exercise also covers piracy, illicit trafficking, illegal fishing, and maritime rescue.