Benin

WOL Featured Video

Benin is pronounced “buh·neen” and is one of the 16 countries located in West Africa. This country gained its independence on August 1, 1960 and was renamed from its original name, Dahomey in 1975. Continue reading below to learn more about the beautiful African country, Benin.

Close-up view of Benin national flag fluttering in the wind.

Source: Aoraee / Getty

What Does The Benin Flag Represent?

GREEN: represent the hope of a new democracy
RED: represents the courage of the ancestors
YELLOW: represents the treasures of the nation

Where is Benin located?

Benin is located in West Africa bordered by Togo, Burkina Faso, Niger and Nigeria.

Source: Encyclopaedia Britannica / Getty

What Timezone is the Benin in?

West Africa Standard Time

Facts

Facts About Benin:

Capital: Porto-Novo
Population: 11.5 Million
65% of the counties population is under 25 years old
This country is made up of 5 natural regions

Languages

What Are The Official Languages of Benin?

French is the official language of Benin. Other languages spoken in this country include; Fon, Yom, Yoruba, Baatonum and Borgu Fulfulde.

Take Us Everywhere You Go! Click Here To Download Our App 📲

Currency

What Is The Currency of Benin?

Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF) is the currency used in Benin

$1 = 644.14

$20 = 12882.74

$60 = 38648.23

Source: Siempreverde22 / Getty

Entertainment

Get Breaking News & Exclusive Contest in Your Inbox:

Religion

What Are The Religions of Benin?

Religion: In Benin the 2 main religions practiced are; Christianity (53%) and Islam (24%).

Food

What Are The Traditional Foods of Benin?

Kuli-kuli is Benin’s national dish.

Tourist Attractions

Is Benin Safe?

As of 2023, Benin is at a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Places to visit in Benin:

3 cities you should visit while in Benin are; Cotonou, Ouidah and Porto Novo.

I hope this information has given you more insight into Benin but there is so much more to learn! Visit their tourism website here to see more.