Benin’s security arrangements in the Gulf of Guinea

Described as ＂the most dangerous maritime zone in the world＂, the Gulf of Guinea is an area where illicit acts at sea are still at a high level. Faced with this worrying lack of security, the countries bordering the Gulf have set up national security systems. Benin, as part of this maritime area, is no exception to the rule. Its maritime security system has two main dimensions: one institutional, the other operational. Both are based on the national maritime protection, safety and security strategy (SNPSSM) adopted in 2013. The first is based around the national authority in charge of State action at sea (ANCAEM), and its implementing body is the Préfecture maritime. The second relies on the French Navy as the operational unit for intervention at sea. After a decade of implementing the SNPSSM, a number of shortcomings have been identified, to the point where there is already talk of updating it. This work sheds light on a subject that is little known to the general public. It encourages a maritime culture, essential for the development of a country bordering the Gulf of Guinea.