Cotonou hosts the second edition of the Semaine régionale de la reprise d’entreprise (SERERE) from 28 to 30 September 2026. Organizers held a press conference regarding the upcoming event on Wednesday, 14 October 2026. This gathering served as a formal briefing for the media and stakeholders interested in the regional business landscape. During the briefing, Biram Amouzouvi, directeur général de GSPS, emphasized the strategic importance of the initiative.
"En 2026, la reprise d’entreprise doit être considérée comme le nouvel accélérateur de croissance des PME au Bénin. Qu’on le veuille ou non, c’est l’ère de la reprise et non de la création seule," stated Biram Amouzouvi. The proceedings aim to shift the focus of small and medium-sized enterprises toward acquisition strategies rather than relying exclusively on new business formation. By prioritizing the continuity of existing firms, the event seeks to stabilize the economic ecosystem in Benin.
Focus on SME Succession
Biram Amouzouvi reported that three companies are currently undergoing analysis to determine their suitability for acquisition. This selection process is part of a broader effort to ensure that the businesses identified are viable for transition. Two potential buyers are involved in these active discussions regarding the businesses. These negotiations represent the practical application of the strategies promoted by the event organizers.
Organizers of the 2026 edition will launch a Bourse régionale des entreprises during the event. This new platform aims to facilitate improved access to financial information and governance data for interested parties. Participants will use the resource to evaluate potential targets and manage the transition process more effectively. The platform is designed to bridge the information gap that often hinders successful business transfers in the regional market. By providing structured data, the Bourse régionale des entreprises acts as a central hub for those looking to navigate the complexities of corporate acquisition.
The first edition of the event took place in December 2025. Organizers established the initial program to address the requirements of business owners and prospective successors in the region. The success of that inaugural session provided the foundation for the expanded scope of the 2026 edition. Following the press conference held on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, organizers confirmed that the mission remains consistent with the objectives established during the 2025 program.
The focus on succession planning remains a priority for the leadership at GSPS. By formalizing the process of business acquisition, the organizers intend to create a sustainable pipeline for entrepreneurship. The transition from the initial program in December 2025 to the current framework reflects a commitment to long-term economic development. As the date for the event approaches, stakeholders are preparing to engage with the tools and data provided through the new Bourse régionale des entreprises. The initiative continues to highlight the necessity of professionalizing the transfer of ownership to ensure that small and medium-sized enterprises remain operational and competitive. Through these structured sessions, Biram Amouzouvi and his team aim to foster a culture where acquisition is viewed as a primary method for business expansion and continuity.