Our work in Benin

Benin has emerged as a model of economic growth and democratic stability in West Africa. The country has made significant strides in infrastructure development – particularly in transportation and energy – enhancing connectivity and access to reliable electricity for its citizens. Investments in digital technology have transformed Benin into a regional hub for innovation, driving entrepreneurship and job creation. Additionally, improved governance and a focus on education have empowered a new generation to contribute to the nation’s bright future. 

Despite this progress, Benin stands as one of the poorest countries in the world with many rural communities facing extreme levels of hunger and poverty. Over 70% of Benin’s population relies on agriculture (Britanicca), leaving the people vulnerable to climate challenges like floods and droughts. Especially in rural communities, many children suffer from malnutrition and lack access to essential resources for healthy development.

Focus issues in Benin

Poverty

Much of Benin’s population lives in poverty and have limited access to basic social services like education, healthcare, and sanitation. The lack of resources and opportunities for economic growth intensifies these conditions, particularly in rural Benin.

Hunger

Food insecurity is a severe issue in Benin. Many families rely on subsistence agriculture, which often fails to meet basic food needs. 

Gender inequality

Gender inequality limits opportunities in education, employment and political participation for women in Benin. Many women experience restricted access to resources that limits their economic independence. Traditional gender roles and societal expectations often hinder women’s advancement, affecting their quality of life and the development of their communities.

Health and nutrition

Malnutrition is prevalent in Benin and mostly affects children. Many people in Benin have limited access to healthcare, nutritional knowledge and clean water. This leaves many communities vulnerable to preventable diseases and developmental challenges. Rural areas have sparse resources and experience these challenges more.

Access to water and sanitation

In rural Benin, people have limited access to clean water and adequate sanitation facilities. The lack of safe water and sanitation negatively impacts community health, leading to high incidences of waterborne diseases, limited productivity,  and low educational attendance — especially among women and children.

Agriculture

Benin’s economy heavily depends on agriculture, with over 70% of the population engaged in subsistence farming (USAID). Farmers have limited access to agricultural technology, which further decreases food productivity. Barriers in transitioning to commercial agriculture prevent many families from living sustainable livelihoods.

Climate change

Dependence on small-scale farming makes communities vulnerable to environmental challenges, such as climate-change-related droughts and floods, which directly affects crop yields and income. The resulting market price volatility contributes to further economic instability.

Quick facts about Benin

  • The capital of Benin is Porto-Novo, a city that reflects the country’s vibrant culture and history.
  • Benin has a population of approximately 13 million people with many depending on subsistence agriculture for their livelihoods. (IFAD)
  • The Benin language is officially French, while indigenous languages such as Fon and Yoruba are widely spoken.
  • The currency is the West African CFA franc, supporting a growing economy based on local agriculture and trade.
  • Benin, formerly known as Dahomey, gained independence from France in 1960. 
  • Benin is one of Africa’s most stable democracies, though corruption remains a challenge.
  • Poverty in Benin remains a significant issue, and it is intensified by a lack of access to basic social services.

Poverty & hunger statistics

  • Approximately 38.5% of Benin’s population lives below the national poverty line. (World Bank)
  • Benin ranks 99th out of 127 countries in the Global Hunger Index, indicating a “serious” level of hunger.
  • 34.1% of children under five suffer from stunting due to malnutrition. (Global Hunger Index)
  • More than 10.3% of Benin’s population is undernourished with children particularly at risk of malnutrition and stunted growth due to insufficient food supplies. (Global Hunger Index)

Partnering toward sustainable development goals

Since 1997, we have partnered with communities in Benin to create a world without hunger

We work through an integrated approach to rural development that implements the basic services needed to live an independent life. By putting a particular emphasis on supporting women and youth, we are creating resilient, sustainable communities that can achieve a brighter future.

Epicenters in Benin

The Hunger Project-Benin established 18 epicenters in 8 different departments, 16 of which now operate self-sufficiently. The initiative has enabled 301,784 people living in rural areas to take care of themselves.

After more than 20 years working in Benin, The Hunger Project started 4 new projects in 2023, in the central and northern regions of the country. These projects are part of THP-Benin’s vision for 2027, which aims to improve food security, nutrition and socio-economic conditions of 450,000 people living in rural areas. This mission emphasizes the support of youth, women and other vulnerable groups, underscoring The Hunger Project’s commitment to creating a better future for all.

Celebrating major milestones

In 2023, we reached significant milestones in supporting communities across Benin:

  • 284,740 people now live in self-sustaining, autonomous epicenters.
  • 4,984 people completed training in women’s leadership programs.
  • 3,410 children benefited from regular health monitoring, including weight and nutrition assessments.
  • 1,885 individuals received training in sustainable land management and climate change adaptation.

Meet Garba Mamatou, a seamstress from Bouanri-Maro. She shares her experience on female leadership.

Today, I am elected president of the village committee of Bouanri-Maro. This is thanks to the motivation inspired in me by the awareness-raising activities organized by The Hunger Project, which shed light on the importance of women’s participation. 

Maternal and child nutrition

Malnutrition resulting from food insecurity and limited nutritional knowledge remains a major challenge in Benin. This has led to stunted growth, anemia and delayed brain development in children

To address maternal and child malnutrition, THP-Benin implements early childhood  interventions and trains facilitators in internationally recognized strategies such as  multiple micronutrient supplementation (MMS) and nutritional actions essential (ENA). These two nutritional interventions are combined with water and sanitation (WASH) training aimed at improving the overall health and well-being of the community. This work is done with support from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter- day Saints

Smart agriculture & socioeconomic improvement for Benin youth

Engaging young people in innovative and resilient models of agriculture and entrepreneurship is a key focus for us in Benin. Our goal is to facilitate the transition from subsistence to commercial agriculture. 

Promoting the use of digital technologies will inspire new generations to make meaningful advancements in the agricultural sector. The youth gain new entrepreneurial opportunities to explore promising career paths and secure sustainable livelihoods.

The Hunger Project
P.O. Box 1152
Cotonou
Benin

Phone: +229 21 30 56 11
Fax: +229 21 30 72 12

benin@thp.org

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