African Countries

Benin Country Overview

 

Republic of Benin

This is a Benin Country Overview. The official name is the Republic of Benin. It is also commonly referred to as Benin. Benin was formerly known as Dahomey.

Benin country overview flag

Benin Country Overview

Benin country overview location on the African map

African map highlighting Benin’s location.

  1. Where is Benin located?

    Benin is located on the western coast of Africa. Benin borders the following countries; Niger to the north-east, Togo to the west, Burkina Faso to the north-west, and Nigeria to the east.

  2. What is the capital of Benin?

    The Capital of  Benin is Porto-Novo.

  3. How large is the country of Benin?

    Benin has 112,622 square kilometers of land.

  4. Is Benin a member of the African Union?

    Benin is a a member of the African Union. It has been a member since May 25th, 1963.

Benin Country Overview - People

  1. What is the population of Benin?

    The population of Benin is slightly over 11.76 million as of 2019 (approx). The most populated city in Benin is Cotonou with a population of 2.4 million approx. (2018).

  2. What are the Ethnic groups in Benin?

    As of 2019, the estimated breakdown of ethnic groups are; Fon 38.4%, Adja 15.1%, Yoruba 12%, Bariba 9.6%, Fulani 8.6%, Ottamari 6.1%, Yoa-Lokpa 4.3%, Dendi 2.9%, and other groups 2.9%.

  3. How many languages are spoken in Benin?

    The most popular languages spoken in Benin are Fon, Yoruba, other tribal languages and French.

  4. What religions are in Benin?

    Benin religious groups consist of; 52% Christianity, 24% Islam, 22% Traditional faiths and other 1% Others.

Benin Economy

  1. Benin Country Overview – Political System

    Benin has a Unitary presidential republic form of government. The country has 12 administrative regions; Atacora, Borgou, Couffo, Donga, Plateau, Atlantique, Littoral, Mono, Oueme, Alibori, Zou, and Collines.

  2. What is the currency used in Benin?

    The West African CFA franc (XOF) is the official currency for Benin.

  3. What makes up the economy in Benin?

    Benin’s main resources and industries consist of cotton.

Interesting Fact About Benin.

The religion of Voodoo originated in Benin and surrounding region. This concludes our brief Benin country overview. We encourage you to learn more about this great nation.

All numerical data are estimates. Information may vary after the date of this article.