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Benin

Africa

Republic of Benin

📍 Essential Info

CapitalPorto-Novo (constitutional capital); Cotonou (seat of government)

TimezoneUTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)

Population15.2M

Languages55 languages; French (official); Fon (a Gbe language), Yom (a Gur language) and Yoruba are the most important indigenous languages in the south; half...

Governmentpresidential republic

🔌 Practical Info

Driving SideRight

Electrical PlugsVaries

Internet Code.bj

Internet Users32%

GDP per Capita$3,900

🌍 Geography

LocationWestern Africa, bordering the Bight of Benin, between Nigeria and Togo

Size Comparisonslightly smaller than Pennsylvania

Climatetropical; hot, humid in south; semiarid in north

Terrainmostly flat to undulating plain; some hills and low mountains

👥 People & Culture

Ethnic GroupsFon and related 38.4%, Adja and related 15.1%, Yoruba and related 12%, Bariba and related 9.6%, Fulani and related 8.6%, Ottamari and related 6.1%, Yo...

ReligionsMuslim 27.7%, Roman Catholic 25.5%, Protestant 13.5% (Celestial 6.7%, Methodist 3.4%, other Protestant 3.4%), Vodoun 11.6%, other Christian 9.5%, othe...

Median Age17.2 years

Life Expectancy63 years

National HolidayIndependence Day, 1 August (1960)

Cultural Information

Detailed cultural tips and phrases for Benin are not yet available. We're continually expanding our cultural guides. Check back soon!

Data sourced from the CIA World Factbook