Claudy Siar, former host of RFI’s Couleurs Tropicales, has been appointed Special Advisor to the President of Benin for Culture, Media, and National Visibility.

This appointment marks a significant career shift for the pan-African advocate. Claudy Siar, known for his bold stance on African development and criticism of Western policies, was named by President Romuald Wadagni on June 3, 2026.

Siar’s departure from RFI in March 2026 came after three decades with the network, including a 25-year run hosting Couleurs Tropicales. His exit followed a strategic reshuffle at RFI and the end of his contract, though he publicly attributed it to ideological differences and his unwavering commitment to panafricanism. RFI cited a shift in musical programming as the reason for his departure.

With RFI behind him, Siar has since joined NewWorld TV, where he is set to launch two new channels: NewWorld Mix and NewWorld Muzik. His new role in Benin’s government underscores the country’s focus on cultural diplomacy and media strategy.