Benin, a West African nation where French is spoken, is the birthplace of the vodun (commonly known as “voodoo”) religion and was the historical home of the Dahomey Kingdom from approximately 1600 to 1900.

Present-day Benin consists of approximately 42 ethnic groups, with notable ones including the Yoruba in the southeast, who migrated from present-day Nigeria in the 12th century; the Dendi in the north-central area, originating from Mali in the 16th century; the Bariba and Fula in the northeast; the Ottamari in the Atakora mountains; the Fon in the south-central region around Abomey; and the Mina, Xueda, and Aja, who came from Togo along the coast. In the 17th century, the Kingdom of Dahomey emerged on the Abomey plateau, becoming a regional power in the 18th and 19th centuries. Known for its organized economy, international trade, and formidable military, Dahomey played a significant role in the Atlantic slave trade, earning a reputation as a major source of enslaved individuals.

During the latter half of the 19th century, France began to assert control over the coastal areas of Dahomey, ultimately conquering the entire kingdom by 1894. Achieving independence in 1960, the nation changed its name to the Republic of Benin in 1975.

After a series of military governments, Mathieu KEREKOU rose to power in 1972, establishing a government based on Marxist-Leninist principles. The transition to representative government commenced in 1989, leading to free elections in 1991 that saw Nicephore SOGLO become president, marking Africa’s first successful transfer of power from dictatorship to democracy. KEREKOU regained power through elections in 1996 and 2001, though some irregularities were alleged. He stepped down in 2006, and Thomas YAYI Boni succeeded him. Patrice TALON, a wealthy businessman, assumed office in 2016 and won a second term in April 2021. However, under TALON’s administration, there has been a narrowing of space for pluralism, dissent, and free expression.

Flag of Benin

You can download the national flag of Benin in PNG, SVG, WEBP AND JPG formats from here

Coat of Arms

References

As earlier mentioned, Transport in Benin includes road, rail, water and air transportation. Benin possesses a total of 6,787 km of highway, of which 1,357 km are paved. Of the paved highways in the country, there are 10 expressways. This leaves 5,430 km of unpaved road. Benin travel guide and information can be found here

“L’Aube nouvelle.” is the National anthem of Benin. This anthem, written and composed by Father Gilbert Jean Dagnon, is a powerful expression of the country’s spirit of freedom, unity, and hope. Since its adoption upon Benin’s independence from France in 1960, “L’Aube nouvelle” has become a symbol of national pride and identity.