Benin: National Assembly prepares a new Highway Code adapted to current realities

On October 20, 2026, lawmakers, government officials and technicians from Benin’s National Center for Road Safety worked on a new Highway Code at a seminar in Grand-Popo. National Assembly President Joseph Djogbénou described the reform as part of “legislative decolonization,” while Minister Georges Alé outlined its main measures. The draft includes a legal blood-alcohol limit, criminal offenses for driving under the influence of drugs and major speeding, and mandatory helmets, seat belts and child restraint seats. It would also expand road-safety education and stiffen penalties; meanwhile, the Republican Police have impounded more than 3,000 vehicles since September 20 during road checks.