The event unfolded in a warm and collegial atmosphere, attended by numerous partners and senior officials of this pioneering transboundary basin organization in West Africa.
A Beninese national, Mr. Houanye is an agricultural engineer with a specialized degree in Environmental Sciences and Natural Risk Management. With over 25 years of professional experience, he has developed recognized expertise in key areas such as agricultural water management, Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM), climate resilience, and the governance of water resources at both national and transboundary levels.
His career reflects a steady progression through technical, strategic, and institutional responsibilities. After working as a consultant, he joined the Global Water Partnership (GWP) network as Coordinator of the Benin National Water Partnership (PNE-Benin). He later expanded his engagement at the continental level, serving as Capacity Development Lead and Africa Technical Advisor within the GWP Africa Coordination Unit.
Prior to his appointment at the NBA, Mr. Houanye served as Executive Secretary of GWP West Africa, where he led the planning, development, and coordination of regional operations across the 15 West African member countries.
Throughout his career, he has built strong partnerships with transboundary basin organizations, regional economic communities, development finance institutions, and bilateral and multilateral cooperation agencies. He brings extensive experience in institutional, technical, and operational capacity building, investment planning, and the preparation of bankable projects and programs.
His arrival at the helm of the NBA marks a new chapter in strengthening regional water governance and promoting sustainable cooperation among the Niger Basin member states.