The price of a sack of charcoal in Benin has risen to approximately 12,000 francs CFA. This cost represents a significant increase from a previous price of nearly 7,000 francs CFA. Government officials are now urging households and businesses to shift toward gas as a primary fuel source in response to these surging market costs. The notable spike in the cost of charcoal has placed a financial burden on many residents who rely on the fuel for daily cooking needs, prompting a formal push from the state to transition toward alternative energy options.
Government Gas Subsidy Initiatives
In May 2026, the government introduced 1.5 kg and 3 kg gas bottles to the market, which are rechargeable at 1,000 and 2,000 francs CFA respectively. During the same month, authorities reduced the recharge price for a 6 kg gas bottle from 4,700 to 4,500 francs CFA to further encourage the transition to gas. These specific adjustments to the pricing structure for gas bottles were implemented as a direct mechanism to make gas a more competitive and accessible alternative to charcoal. By lowering the financial barrier for entry into the gas market, the administration aims to stabilize cooking fuel costs for the population.
Government spokesperson Wilfried Léandre Houngbédji addressed these market transitions and household cooking habits during a live TikTok session held on 16 October 2026. The digital platform allowed for a direct exchange between the government spokesperson and citizens regarding the shift in fuel usage. The session served as a primary venue for officials to communicate the policy shift and provide guidance on why the government is prioritizing gas over traditional biomass fuels.
Responding to concerns regarding the rising costs of charcoal, Wilfried Léandre Houngbédji stated, "Je ne peux pas vous dire pourquoi vous achetez le charbon à 12 000 plutôt qu’à 7 000. Par contre, je peux demander de comparer." This comparison notes the government's stance that consumers should evaluate the cost-effectiveness of gas against the current volatile market price of charcoal.
Wilfried Léandre Houngbédji urged citizens to adapt to the changing availability of fuel sources. He noted, "Nous sommes condamnés aussi à faire ce choix. Il vaut mieux commencer dès maintenant à prendre d’autres habitudes." The spokesperson emphasized that the transition is not merely a suggestion but a necessary evolution in domestic energy consumption. Regarding the long-term outlook for charcoal supply within the country, Wilfried Léandre Houngbédji added, "Il va arriver un moment, même au Bénin, où vous ne pouvez pas trouver même un seul sac de charbon à acheter." This warning shows the government's perspective that the reliance on charcoal is ultimately unsustainable, necessitating an immediate and permanent change in the cooking habits of the Beninese people.