Bénin Commercial Court: Colas Afrique Wins Textron Construction Dispute

• Textron Construction was ordered to pay 500,000 FCFA in costs to Colas Afrique.
• The Commercial Court of Cotonou ruled in favor of Colas Afrique, finding Textron Construction responsible for delays and non-execution of agreed-upon works.
• The judgment may set a precedent for construction contracts in Bénin, emphasizing the importance of timely project execution and effective communication between contracting parties.

The court ruled that Textron Construction had failed to execute the agreed-upon works, despite several warnings from Colas Afrique SA.

A financial dispute between Textron Construction and Colas Afrique has been settled by the Commercial Court of Cotonou, with significant implications for construction contracts in Bénin. The dispute arose from a contract signed on October 16, 2023, under which Textron Construction was to carry out roadworks in Cotonou for a total amount of 205.311.239.46 FCFA. However, the project faced obstacles due to delays and non-release of site access, attributed by Textron Construction to Colas Afrique SA. The two parties attempted mediation on February 22, 2025, but ultimately, the court ruled in favor of Colas Afrique, with Textron Construction being ordered to pay 500,000 FCFA in costs.

The judgment, dated August 6, 2026, is significant for its implications on construction contracts in Bénin. The court's decision may set a precedent for future disputes between contractors and their clients. Notably, the Commercial Court of Cotonou found that Textron Construction had failed to execute the agreed-upon works, despite several warnings from Colas Afrique SA. This ruling highlights the importance of timely project execution and effective communication between contracting parties.

The judgment has far-reaching implications for construction contracts in Bénin, emphasizing the need for clear contractual obligations and timely project execution. Compliance officers should review their company's contractual commitments to ensure they are meeting financial responsibilities. Lawyers should note that this ruling may set a precedent for future disputes between contractors and clients, underscoring the importance of effective communication and timely project completion.

Lawyers should note that the court's decision may set a precedent for construction contracts in Bénin, and they should be aware of the potential risks of non-performance or abandonment of projects. Compliance officers should also review their company's contractual obligations and ensure that they are meeting their financial commitments.

Source: Original reporting via Plus de 200 millions FCFA divisent Textron construction et Colas Afrique