On 24th April 2026, Glo-Djigbé Industrial Zone (GDIZ) hosted the inaugural edition of GDIZ Women Talk, an initiative led by SIPI-Benin S.A. aimed at strengthening the role of women within the industrial environment.
Designed as a space for dialogue and co-creation, this programme seeks to provide female employees with a structured framework to share experiences, develop their skills and access tangible opportunities, in a context where women remain underrepresented in decision-making bodies.
The special guest for this first edition was Mrs Elvire Houédé Agbo, President of the women’s network of Benin Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations (Women at CDC Benin).
By sharing the experience of this network, she demonstrated how the model has been progressively structured and now operates effectively, driven by a clear vision from top management, which has made inclusion a strategic priority.
The discussions also fostered a strong sense of collective awareness. Several participants highlighted the immediate impact of the exchanges and emphasised the importance of establishing such a network through concrete and sustainable actions.
In this regard, Mme Faridath Adeniya, Human Resources Assistant Manager at SIPI-Benin S.A., underscored the power of collective action :
“When women come together, exchange and support one another, they become a true force for transformation.”
This message was echoed by Mr Faki Adjé, Deputy Managing Director of SIPI-Benin S.A., who called for a deliberate and structured approach :
“If you do not organise yourselves, the silent majority will not emerge.”
Mr Franck Gbetoho, Human Resources Manager at GDIZ, commended the relevance of the initiative and encouraged participants to draw inspiration from existing models while adapting them to the specific context of GDIZ.
Through GDIZ Women Talk, SIPI-Benin S.A. is laying the foundations for a structured, sustainable and action-oriented framework, positioning female leadership as a key driver of transformation within GDIZ.
