February 2026

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On February 11, 2026, we held the inauguration of the fish farm and vegetable garden at the Djèffa orphanage. The results are very encouraging: the fish have reached maturity, and sales will begin shortly.

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A meeting was held in Kandi on February 26, 2026, attended by the Mayor, the Hospital Director, Mr. Alisée Sohizoun (ophthalmologist), Dr. Laffia, and myself. At present, the optical shop is closed for several reasons, most notably a breakdown of the main machine which could not be repaired. However, all parties present expressed a shared willingness to maintain and relaunch this activity, under certain conditions:

• The town hall wishes to oversee management and has requested the implementation of a quarterly financial report.

• The hospital has committed to meeting this request.

• The hospital will also make two premises available:

  • one for retail sales

  • one for the workshop

• Before the end of the year, the hospital plans to recruit two people:

  • an optician for the shop

  • an optical technician for the workshop

• On our side, we have committed to providing new equipment.

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Conclusion – February

The hospital attaches great importance to the development of the optical business, which represents an additional source of revenue. The town hall notes that this project came about through the actions carried out as part of the twinning partnership between Kandi and Villefranche, and wishes to see this initiative relaunched and sustained.

March 2026

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On March 10, 2026, I delivered medical equipment to the Director of Klouékanmè Hospital, who was very pleased with this donation.

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On March 11, 2026, we held the inauguration of a borehole equipped with a water tower, co-funded with the association Regard du Monde, in Gakpé, in the municipality of Ouidah. This achievement significantly improves access to drinking water for local communities.

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On the same day, we visited Gbovié, in the municipality of Tori, where an agreement was signed with the village chief, Mr. Isaac Houndji, and the School Director, Mr. Jean Koto. This agreement concerns the construction of a borehole with a water tower for the benefit of the local population and the school.

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On March 12, 2026, we visited two orphanages:

• The Jean Teko orphanage in Dangbo, for which we funded three triple-level bunk beds.

• The Jean-Paul II orphanage in Dangbo, where significant needs were identified, but whose costs remain high in the short term.

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A decision regarding this facility will be made during my next visit.