Borgou

Borgou is a department of Benin, located in the northern part of the country. Its capital is Parakou, a major urban center and regional market hub. The department was established in 1999 as part of Benin’s administrative decentralization, which created 12 departments to improve local governance.

Geography and population

Borgou encompasses diverse savanna landscapes and agricultural land used for farming and grazing. It borders several other Beninese departments and extends toward the country’s northern frontier with Niger and Nigeria. The population is ethnically diverse, with the Bariba (Baatɔni) as one of the largest groups; other communities include Fulani, Dendi, Yoruba and various smaller groups. French is the official language, with Bariba and other local languages commonly spoken in daily life.

Economy

Agriculture dominates the economy of Borgou. Cotton is a key cash crop, complemented by maize, millet, yams, cassava, and peanuts. Livestock farming, especially cattle, plays a significant role in rural livelihoods. Parakou functions as the department’s commercial and logistical center, connecting settlements to regional and national markets through road networks.

Culture and society

The department is home to rich cultural traditions, including distinctive music, crafts, and markets that serve as social and economic focal points. Religious practices are diverse, with Islam and Christianity being predominant, often accompanied by traditional beliefs and rituals related to local communities.

Infrastructure

Borgou’s infrastructure centers on road transport and rural access. Parakou provides administrative services, education, healthcare facilities, and trade networks that link the region to Cotonou and other parts of Benin.