Country Profile: Benin

Benin is located in Western Africa, bordered by Nigeria to the east and Togo to the west, with a coastline along the Bight of Benin. The country is home to a diverse population of approximately 14.7 million, comprising various ethnic groups, with the Fon being the most prominent. Benin's economy largely relies on agriculture, particularly cotton, while it maintains trade relations with Nigeria. The governance structure is a presidential republic, currently led by President Patrice Talon.

Geography

Benin covers an area of 112,622 square kilometers, featuring a mix of flat plains and low mountains, with the country's highest point reaching 675 meters. The climate is predominantly tropical, characterized by a hot, humid south and a semiarid north. Despite its coastal access, Benin faces challenges with poor harbor conditions due to sandbanks and lacks significant natural harbors.

Area: 112,622 sq km
Land boundaries: 2,123 km (Nigeria 809 km, Togo 651 km)
Coastline: 121 km
Climate: Tropical, hot and humid in the south

People and Society

The total population of Benin is approximately 14.7 million, with a youthful demographic; the median age is 17.2 years. Ethnically, the Fon and related groups comprise the majority, while various languages are spoken, with French as the official language. The population has a diverse religious landscape, predominantly Muslim and Roman Catholic, and experiences a high birth rate.

Population: 14,697,052 (2024 est.)
Urbanization: 50.1% of total population (2023)
Languages: 55 languages, with French as the official language
Life expectancy: 63 years (2024 est.)

Economy

Benin's economy is growing, with a GDP estimated at $21.48 billion in 2024. Agriculture plays a vital role, contributing 24.2% to the GDP and primarily focusing on cotton exports. Despite some poverty challenges, the country has shown potential for robust economic performance, especially following the impacts of COVID-19.

GDP growth rate: 7.5% (2024 est.)
Unemployment rate: 1.8% (2024 est.)
Poverty rate: 38.5% (2018 est.)
Agricultural contribution to GDP: 24.2% (2024 est.)

Government

Benin operates as a presidential republic with a constitution adopted in 1990. The political landscape has evolved from military governance to a more democratic framework, with President Patrice Talon currently in office since 2016. The legislative body is unicameral, and elections are held every four years, with the next one scheduled for 2026.

Independence: August 1, 1960
Current President: Patrice Talon (since April 6, 2016)
Legislature: National Assembly with 109 members
Suffrage: Universal at age 18

Military and Security

The Beninese Armed Forces consist of an Army, Air Force, Navy, and National Guard, with an emphasis on ensuring national security and maintaining internal order. Military expenditure is relatively low at 0.7% of GDP, but the government has increased military focus due to regional security threats, particularly from terrorist groups operating nearby.

Military expenditure: 0.7% of GDP (2024 est.)
Active-duty personnel: Estimated 10,000 (2025)
Service age: 18-30 years for voluntary/compulsory service

Energy

Benin has made strides in improving electricity access, with electrification rates of 56.5% for the total population in 2022. The energy sector largely relies on fossil fuels, comprising 96.7% of total generating capacity. Renewable energy sources are minimal but represent a growing area of development.

Electricity access: 56.5% (2022 est.)
Installed capacity: 505,000 kW (2023 est.)
Energy consumption: 1.459 billion kWh (2023 est.)

Environment

Environmental issues in Benin include inadequate access to potable water, deforestation, and pollution. The government is party to several international environmental agreements aimed at addressing these challenges. Climate change impacts are a concern, particularly in the face of drought and desertification.

Water resources: 26.39 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
Carbon dioxide emissions: 5.948 million metric tonnes (2023 est.)
Deforestation and desertification: Notable issues

Transportation

Benin has a developing transportation infrastructure, with 10 airports and a network of railways spanning 438 km. The primary port is located in Cotonou, which serves as a crucial hub for trade and transport. The country has limited merchant marine capabilities.

Airports: 10 (2025)
Railways: 438 km (2014)
Total ports: 1 (Cotonou)

Communications

The communications sector in Benin has seen growth, with 16.4 million mobile cellular subscriptions reported in 2023. While internet usage remains relatively low, it is on the rise, reflecting increased connectivity among the population.

Internet users: 32% of the population (2023 est.)
Mobile cellular subscriptions: 16.4 million (2023 est.)
Fixed-line subscriptions: 1,000 (2023 est.)

Key Metrics

Metric	Value	Note
Population	14,697,052	2024 estimate
Area	112,622 sq km
GDP	$21.48 billion	2024 estimate at official exchange rate
Unemployment Rate	1.8%	2024 estimate
Birth Rate	40.3 births/1,000 people	2024 estimate
Life Expectancy	63 years	2024 estimate
Military Expenditure	0.7% of GDP	2024 estimate
Electrification Rate	56.5%	2022 estimate
CO2 Emissions	5.948 million metric tonnes	2023 estimate
Gini Index	34.4	2021 estimate