DEATH OF GRÉGOIRE LAOUROU: Benin Loses a Major Figure in Finance and Politics

The Beninese political class and business community are in mourning. Former Minister of Economy and Finance, Grégoire Laourou, passed away in Cotonou on the night of Monday, August 24th to Tuesday, August 25th, 2026. A seasoned senior civil servant and respected statesman, he left his mark on the country’s administrative, budgetary, and parliamentary history over several decades.

Originally from Bantè, in the Collines department, Grégoire Laourou quickly established himself as a pillar of public administration:

Directorate General of the Budget: There, he acquired in-depth expertise in the financial workings of the state before rising to the highest levels of government.

Ministry of Economy and Finance: Appointed under President Mathieu Kérékou, he led national economic policy, particularly during 2003 and 2004.

Regional Influence: In 2004, his leadership extended to the sub-regional level when he assumed the chairmanship of the Council of Ministers of the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU).

After his time in government, Grégoire Laourou continued his service to the nation within the legislative branch and the banking sector:

National Assembly: Elected as a member of parliament during the 5th and 6th legislatures, he put his expertise at the service of the national representation by chairing the prestigious Finance and Trade Committee.

Banking Sector: Later, he brought his strategic vision to the private sector by becoming chairman of the board of directors of Société Générale Benin.

From budget oversight to parliamentary deliberations, and including regional monetary authorities, his career embodies a steadfast devotion to public service. The announcement of his death has sparked a wave of emotion across the country and in his native region. The official funeral arrangements will be announced later.

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