Benin

Country Profile: Benin

Official Name: Republic of Benin

Capital: Porto-Novo

Geography:

Benin is located in West Africa and is bordered by Togo to the west, Nigeria to the east, Burkina Faso to the north-west, and Niger to the north-east. The south of Benin is on the Gulf of Guinea.

Area: Approximately 114,763 square kilometers (approximately 44,310 square miles).

Population: Approximately 12 million people (as of 2023 estimate).

Language: The official language is French. However, indigenous languages such as Fon and Yoruba are commonly spoken.

Climate:

Benin has a tropical climate with two rainy and two dry seasons per year.

Economy:

The economy of Benin remains underdeveloped and dependent on subsistence agriculture, cotton production, and regional trade.

Government:

Benin is a democratic republic where the President of Benin is both head of state and head of government.

Education:

Education in Benin is compulsory for children aged 6 to 11. However, many children do not attend school due to costs and other factors.

Culture:

Benin is rich in culture with a blend of ethnic groups including the Fon, Adja, Yoruba and Bariba. The country is often referred to as the birthplace of voodoo (Vodun), and this traditional religion remains important in the lives of many Beninese.

Noteworthy Facts:

The historical Kingdom of Dahomey was located within what is now Benin. Dahomey was known for its culture and traditions, as well as its wealth derived from the slave trade. Today, the former palaces of the Dahomey Kingdom are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

This is a general overview of Benin. There’s much more to learn about this country, from its rich cultural heritage to its unique historical sites.