All articles tagged with #benin
US singer Ciara has been granted citizenship of Benin under a new law that offers nationality to descendants of slaves, as part of Benin's initiative to reconnect with the African diaspora and promote cultural tourism. The law, called My Afro Origins, aims to return roots to those affected by the transatlantic slave trade, with Ciara expressing honor and gratitude for the gesture.
In Benin, the birthplace of Voodoo, believers are lamenting the steady shrinkage of the sacred forests they revere. These forests are seen as vital to the religion, housing spirits that are prayed to and sought for guidance. However, economic development, farming expansion, and urbanization have led to a significant decrease in the forested areas. The loss of these spaces not only poses an environmental concern but also threatens the social fabric of Benin's population, 11% of whom practice Voodoo. Efforts are being made to preserve the forests while developing the country, but the challenge lies in finding a balance between economic progress and cultural heritage.
At least 35 people were killed and several others injured in an explosion at an illegal fuel depot in southern Benin. The blast occurred as gasoline bags were being unloaded from a vehicle at a contraband fuel depot, where commuters were stocking up on fuel. Benin, a neighboring state of Nigeria, has a substantial fuel black market due to smuggling from Nigeria. The incident has prompted an investigation into the circumstances, and the government has expressed condolences to the victims' families.
At least 35 people, including a child, were killed and more than a dozen others were seriously injured after a fuel depot caught fire in Benin's Seme-Podji town near the border with Nigeria. The blaze, which engulfed an illegal warehouse for smuggled fuel, is believed to have started during the unloading of gasoline bags. Fuel smuggling is common in the area, and the cause of the fire is suspected to be smuggled fuel. An investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the incident.