bénin

Benin, officially the Republic of Benin, is a country in West Africa. It is bordered by Togo to the west, Nigeria to the east, Burkina Faso and Niger to the north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south. The official capital is Porto-Novo, while the largest city and economic hub is Cotonou. The country features a coastal plain in the south, rolling terrain toward the interior, and a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons.

Historically, the area was the heartland of the Kingdom of Dahomey and developed complex trade networks linked to the trans-Atlantic slave trade. It became a French colony in the late 19th century and gained independence on August 1, 1960. In 1975 the state was reorganized as the People’s Republic of Benin and later returned to the name Benin in 1990 with the establishment of a multiparty democratic system.

Politically, Benin is a multi-party presidential republic. The president serves as head of state and government, and a parliament is elected to represent the people. The constitution provides for separation of powers, civil liberties, and regular elections. Benin is a member of regional organizations such as ECOWAS.

Demographically, Benin has around 12 to 13 million inhabitants. Ethnic groups include the Fon and Adja along the coast, with Bariba, Fulani, Dendi, and others in the north. French is the official language, with numerous indigenous languages in everyday use. The population practices Christianity and Islam in addition to traditional beliefs.

Economically, Benin relies on agriculture, notably cotton, as well as ports, trade, and services. The economy benefits from regional integration and growing tourism, centered on historic sites like the Royal Palaces of Abomey, the historic city of Ouidah, and wildlife areas such as Pendjari National Park.