Overview of Benin

Profile

The south features low-lying coastal plains while the north extends to savanna and low mountains. After independence as former French colony Dahomey, it transitioned from 1970s socialist regime to multi-party system in 1990. Cotton and transit trade with neighboring countries form economic pillars, with port city Cotonou serving as crucial outer port for landlocked countries like Niger. Multi-ethnic nation with coexistence of Fon, Yoruba, Bariba peoples, and indigenous Vodun religion deeply embedded in culture. Known for gentle national character, though recent years see concerns about political authoritarianism.

Official name: Republic of Benin
Common name: Benin
Numeric code: 204
Alpha-3 code: BEN
Alpha-2 code: BJ
Population: Approximately 13 million (2023)
Population density: Approximately 115 people/km2
Primary languages: French
Major religions: Christianity, Islam, Vodun
National anthem: L'Aube Nouvelle
Calling code: +229
Internet TLD: .bj

History

Originated from Dahomey Kingdom, prospered through European trade as Slave Coast. Became French colony in 1894, gained independence in 1960 after coups and political strife, achieved democratization in 1990.

From 17th-19th centuries, the Fon people''s Dahomey Kingdom dominated the coast and became slave trade center. In 1894, it became French protectorate, incorporated into French West Africa colonial federation as French Dahomey. Gained independence as Republic of Dahomey in 1960 but suffered frequent political strife and military coups. In 1975, adopted socialist path and renamed to People''s Republic of Benin. Following 1989 economic crisis, a national conference in 1990 adopted new constitution, transitioning to multi-party system and market economy. Relatively stable elections continued thereafter, though political space contraction has been concerning since 2016.

Geography & climate

South features low sandy beaches and lagoons, center has plateaus and forest savanna, northwest has Atacora Mountain hills, northeast has dry savanna along Niger River

South has tropical savanna climate, north has savanna to steppe climate

Area: Africa / 112622 km²
Capital: Porto-Novo
Largest city: Cotonou
Coastal status: Yes
Major lakes: Lake Nokoué, Lake Ahémé
Bordering countries: Togo, Burkina Faso, Niger, Nigeria

Natural resources

Phosphate ore, Limestone, Marble, Shea nuts, Forest resources, Fishing resources, Undeveloped crude oil, Groundwater, Clay, Gravel

Politics

Government: Presidential republic

Economy

Currency: CFA Franc (West Africa) (XOF)

GDP (nominal): 18.3 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 44.0 billion international dollars (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: French

Time zone: West Africa Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Fon, Aja, Yoruba, Bariba, Fula, Somba, Dendi, Mina, Betammaribe, Pular

Life expectancy

Approximately 62 years

Literacy rate

Approximately 45%

National sports

Football, Basketball, Handball, Athletics, Wrestling (Evala)