Benin

Benin is ethnically diverse, home to the Fon, Yoruba, and other groups, and is the birthplace of the Vodun (Voodoo) religion. French is the official language, with many local languages spoken.

Religious life blends Christianity, Islam, and traditional Vodun, which remains widely practiced.

Society

Benin has a young, growing population and has been one of West Africa's more stable democracies, though literacy and incomes remain low.