By Genevieve Azelama
Benin Republic, a West African nation, blessed with a bountiful wellspring of cultural and historical power, spiritual heritage, and historical significance, has seen the global impact. From being the birthplace of Voodoo spirituality to warrior queens, Benin is rich with a unique and vibrant cultural and historical identity that celebrates legacies that continue to shape the African consciousness. Benin Republic shines as a vibrant testament to the richness and beauty of indigenous identity, resilience, and culture.
YOUNG POPULATION 
Benin Republic has one of the world’s youngest populations, with a median age of 17. 42.2% of the country’s population is under age 15.
TEMPLE OF PYTHONS
Snakes are seen as a sign of good fortune in Benin Republic, especially if they cross a person’s path, and as such are widely revered. Which is why Benin is home to a temple of pythons, it is a sacred site, where dozens of royal serpents are allowed to roam around freely within the grounds of the temple. It is inspired by King Kpasse.
HIGHEST NATURAL TWINNING RATE
Benin Republic holds the world record for the highest natural twinning rate globally, with approximately 27.9 twins per 1,000 births. This phenomenon is especially prevalent among the Yoruba population.
THE DAHOMEY EMPIRE
Benin Republic was formerly known as Dahomey, a great West African empire that flourished in the 18th and 19th centuries. Dahomey means ‘on the belly of Dan’. Dan was a rival king whose grave the Dahomey Palace was built on. The Dahomey Empire was well known for its all-female military regiment called the Dahomey Amazons. These fierce warriors, renowned for their bravery and skill, served the Dahomey Empire from the 17th to the 19th centuries.
VOODOO
Voodoo originated in Benin Republic. According to the latest figures, over 11% of the Benin Republic population practices voodoo, and there is even a national day of celebration where the voodoo religion is celebrated every year on the 10th of January. Voodoo beliefs help in the conservation of certain forests marked as sacred forests.
ZANGBETO – TRADITIONAL NIGHT GUARDIANS
Zangbeto are traditional night watchmen in Benin who patrol neighborhoods to keep everyone safe and in order. They are regarded as spiritual leaders and play a crucial role in local law enforcement and cultural customs.
WEST AFRICA’S LARGEST INTACT ECOSYSTEM
Benin Republic is home to West Africa’s largest intact ecosystem, known as the W-Arly Penjari Complex. The park is UNESCO-listed and is home to the only viable population of lions left in the region.
UNESCO HERITAGE SITE
The Royal Palaces of Abomey are a UNESCO heritage site that holds a lot of cultural and historical significance. It was built during the Kingdom of Dahomey in the 17th century, and it features over 10 palaces.
Benin is an archive of true African culture and identity, and a mirror reflecting Africa’s strength, resilience, and complexity. Its ancient traditions, spiritual depth, and beautiful and unique history remind us that African cultural and historical brilliance is rich and deep no matter the size of the nation or culture the beauty of African culture lies not in numbers but in fortitude and depth, reaffirming that every corner of the African continent holds a unique and rich beauty and brilliance waiting to be seen.
