The U.S. Embassy in Cotonou, Benin announces the donation by the United States Government of 302,400 doses of the single-shot Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine as part of the United State’s global efforts to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. The donated vaccines are part of the U.S. government’s initial pledge to provide at least 25 million ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 26 July, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Freedom of expression, the cherished and indispensable right enshrined in the founding documents of both our nations, has long been a cornerstone of a strong U.S.-Benin partnership based on shared democratic values such as tolerance, mutual respect, and the peaceful resolution of differences. From Cotonou to Washington, the hard-won freedom to think, to imagine, to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 4 July, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
REMARKS ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE DR. KARI JOHNSTONE, ACTING DIRECTOR OFFICE TO MONITOR AND COMBAT TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS BEN FRANKLIN ROOM WASHINGTON, D.C. JULY 1, 2021 MS JOHNSTONE: Good afternoon, and welcome. My name is Kari Johnstone. I am the acting director of the Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons. Thank ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 1 July, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE JUNE 18, 2021 Juneteenth, or June 19, is a reflective day to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States. On January 1, 1863, President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation to abolish slavery. Yet it wasn’t until two and a half years later, on June 19, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 18 June, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE JUNE 16, 2021 Today marks the tenth anniversary of the unanimous endorsement by the UN Human Rights Council of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs). These principles recognize a three-pronged approach to protecting human rights in the context of business activity: States have ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 16 June, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
World Day Against Child Labor PRESS STATEMENT
NED PRICE, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON JUNE 11, 2021 Child labor harms the physical and mental development of children, depriving them of their childhood, their potential, and their dignity. For their future and for the world’s future, we must do more to combat child labor and protect children from this scourge. June 12 is ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 11 June, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Forty years ago, on June 5th, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported on the first five cases of what later became known as AIDS. At that time, none of us could have imagined that AIDS would still be with us today or that it would have taken more than 32 million lives globally, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 7 June, 2021 | Topics: Press Releases
United States Announces Plan to Allocate First 25 Million Doses of Vaccine to COVAX As we continue to fight the COVID-19 pandemic at home and work to end the pandemic worldwide, President Biden has promised that the United States will be an arsenal of vaccines for the world. To do that, the Administration will pursue ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 4 June, 2021 | Topics: News
ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE JUNE 1, 2021 During this year’s Pride Month, we celebrate an important message: “You are Included.” The diverse experiences, perspectives, and contributions of the State Department community make our institution stronger and advance the goals of American diplomacy. Out of many, we are one. The Department has committed to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 2 June, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
May 28, 2021 – U.S. Ambassador Patricia Mahoney visited Nikki, Parakou, and Tchaourou from May 24-27, 2021 to meet with local leaders and partner organizations and to assess U.S. government efforts to support cultural, educational, and health development in the Department of Borgou. In a meeting with His Royal Highness Sabi Nayina III in Nikki, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 2 June, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
News Alert: U.S. citizens may directly return to the United States with certain expired U.S. passports. If you are overseas and your passport expired on or after January 1, 2020, you may be able to use your expired passport to return directly to the United States until December 31, 2021. You qualify for this exception if all the following are ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 27 May, 2021 | Topics: Alert, News
Today, in the Oval Office, I met with George Floyd’s family. Although it has been one year since their beloved brother and father was murdered, for the family – for any family experiencing a profound loss – the first year can still feel like they got the news a few seconds ago. And they’ve had ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 26 May, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
COTONOU, Benin, May 20, 2021 – The United States Government is providing protective equipment and health supplies to prevent the spread of COVID-19, including among orphans, older people, and people with disabilities, in the departments of Alibori, Atacora, Ouémé, and Plateau. The United States, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), presented a selection ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 25 May, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE MAY 16, 2021 This year’s May 17 marks 16 years since the first International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (IDAHOTB). In the intervening period, the United States has endeavored to reaffirm the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all persons, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 17 May, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
SPECIAL BRIEFING VIA TELEPHONE Download or listen to the audio file
here Moderator: Good afternoon to everyone from the U.S. Department of State’s Africa Regional Media Hub. I would like to welcome our participants from across the continent and thank all of you for taking part in this discussion. Today, we are very pleased to be ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 4 May, 2021 | Topics: News
Earlier this month, a team from the United States Department of Defense visited Benin to support Beninese naval efforts to secure the nation’s waterways and combat the global menace of maritime piracy. Working alongside sailors at the Cotonou Naval Base, the visiting American team provided training and parts to improve the performance of the U.S.-donated ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 3 May, 2021 | Topics: News
PRESS STATEMENT
ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE MAY 2, 2021 Tomorrow, the United States joins the international community in celebrating World Press Freedom Day. Information and knowledge are powerful tools, and a free and independent press is the core institution connecting publics to the information they need to advocate for themselves, make informed decisions, and hold governmental officials accountable. The ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 2 May, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
April 25, 2021 – The United States Government celebrates the progress made in the fight against malaria in Benin alongside the Ministry of Health and local and international partners at a ceremony to observe World Malaria Day in Avrankou, Ouémé. This past year, COVID-19 created an unprecedented global crisis. Yet malaria has long been a ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 25 April, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Program
PRESS STATEMENT NED PRICE, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON APRIL 23, 2021 The United States notes with concern the numerous arrests of opposition political leaders related to the April 11 presidential elections. Among the democratic principles our two countries share is the presumption of innocence until proven guilty through a prompt, fair, transparent, and apolitical criminal justice process. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 23 April, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases, U.S. Secretary of State
PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE APRIL 22, 2021 Today, the 51st Earth Day, we must work together to combat the climate crisis and restore our Earth for the benefit of everyone. Each year, an estimated one billion people around the world mobilize for action on Earth Day, and this year, the United States joins this wave of action. This morning, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 22 April, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases, U.S. Secretary of State
Wednesday, APRIL 14, 2021 —————– The U.S. Embassy recognizes all those who exercised their democratic rights peacefully by casting ballots in Benin’s presidential elections on April 11. We call on all parties to address any grievances through processes laid out in Benin’s Constitution and laws. Violence has no place in democratic societies. We are disappointed ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 14 April, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE RECORDED ON APRIL 9, 2021 APRIL 12, 2021 Today, I wish all Muslims in the United States and around the world a blessed Ramadan. Ramadan is a season of reflection, prayer, charity, fasting, and community. Many Muslims at home and abroad will again celebrate this Ramadan differently through ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 13 April, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
The Embassies of Germany, the United States, France, the Netherlands and the European Union delegation regret acts of violence observed on the margins of the electoral process. We express our solidarity with the victims. We call for an end to violence and for a return to calm, and express our desire that the election take ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 9 April, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Villagers in two communities in northeast Benin will no longer need to cross the border to give birth or receive other basic medical care with the delivery of two new medical facilities in the remote villages of Money and Godjekoara, both of which sit in the larger border region of the Commune of Malanville. The ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 8 April, 2021 | Topics: News | Tags: DOD, Inauguration, Program
SPECIAL BRIEFING VIA TELEPHONE JULIE CABUS DEPUTY ASSISTANT SECRETARY, BUREAU OF DIPLOMATIC SECURITY AND MICHAEL C. GONZALES DEPUTY ASSISTANT SECRETARY, BUREAU OF AFRICAN AFFAIRS APRIL 7, 2021 SUMMARY Telephonic press briefing on the first ever West Africa Joint Operations (WAJO) regional exercise that took place March 29-31, 2021. The briefing featured Julie Cabus, Deputy ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 7 April, 2021 | Topics: News
Security Alert: Presidential Election Season in Benin Location: Throughout Benin Event: Benin will hold presidential elections on April 11, 2021. Before, during, and after Election Day, U.S. citizens in Benin should heighten their situational awareness and exercise increased caution. Presidential campaigning and election activity could generate large crowds and demonstrations. Election-related gatherings may lead to an increased ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 6 April, 2021 | Topics: Alert
Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield U.S. Representative to the United Nations New York, New York March 19, 2021 AS DELIVERED Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you for convening us to commemorate this important day. And I thank the Secretary-General, Madam High Commissioner, and Dr. Iweala, for your leadership in pressing us all to do more toward the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 22 March, 2021 | Topics: News
March 15, 2021 – The United States Government assisted the Benin Human Rights Commission (BHRC) with training on organizational accreditation, advocacy, and investigating and reporting on acts of torture, to strengthen the BHRC’s functions as a human rights institution. Through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the United States supported three two-day workshops for ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 16 March, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Every year on March 8th, the United States joins the world in recognizing International Women’s Day by celebrating the leadership, strength, and courage of women and girls. The United States recognizes the reality that the equitable participation of women in social, political, and economic life is critical to the peace and prosperity of our collective ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 8 March, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
On March 4, U.S. Ambassador Patricia Mahoney presented prizes to the five winners of the 5th Annual MLK Slam English poetry competition organized by the U.S. Embassy. The winners were selected from fifty-six young Beninese who submitted slam poetry performances for the virtual competition, held online this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Ms. Faith Agbossou’s ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 8 March, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Subject: Security Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (March 4, 2021) Location: Erevan Quartier, Cotonou, and Urban Areas Throughout Benin Event: There is an increased police and military presence in the Erevan Quartier of Cotonou, which may cause sporadic road closures and access restrictions over the next few days. Demonstrations may occur throughout Benin without little ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 5 March, 2021 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens
Embassy of the United States of America Cotonou, Benin Travel Advisory for U.S. Citizens: March 2, 2021 Reconsider travel to Benin due to COVID-19. Read the Department of State’s
COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Benin ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 3 March, 2021 | Topics: Alert
Each year, Women’s History Month offers an important opportunity for us to shine a light on the extraordinary legacy of trailblazing American women and girls who have built, shaped, and improved upon our Nation. Throughout American history, women and girls have made vital contributions, often in the face of discrimination and undue hardship. Courageous women ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 1 March, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE MARCH 1, 2021 Today, we mark the 60th anniversary of the United States Peace Corps and celebrate the volunteers and staff who have served in communities around the world, representing American values and ideals. Established by President John F. Kennedy in 1961, the Peace Corps showcases America ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 1 March, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
On Thursday, February 25, U.S. Ambassador Patricia Mahoney visited construction sites for three new high-voltage electrical substations and the underground distribution lines that will connect them. New infrastructure funded by the United States of America is expected to benefit ten million Beninese over the next twenty years by facilitating a five-fold increase in the capacity of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 26 February, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
The United States is committed to a world in which human rights are protected, their defenders are celebrated, and those who commit human rights abuses are held accountable. Promoting respect for human rights is not something we can do alone, but is best accomplished working with our allies and partners across the globe. President Biden ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 24 February, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
On January 20, on his first day in office, President Biden signed the instrument to bring the United States back into the Paris Agreement. Per the terms of the Agreement, the United States officially becomes a Party again today. The Paris Agreement is an unprecedented framework for global action. We know because we helped design ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 22 February, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
COTONOU, Benin, February 19, 2021 – The United States Government is providing protective equipment and health supplies to strengthen the community-level response to COVID-19 in the departments of Atlantique, Collines, and Mono. The United States, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), presented a selection of materials to the Ministry of Health and department ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 19 February, 2021 | Topics: News
Bonjour à tous. C’est un plaisir pour moi de participer cette année au sommet du G5 Sahel. Je remercie le président Ghazouani de son leadership au cours de l’année écoulée, le président Deby d’assurer la présidence cette année, et son excellence Maman Sidikou pour la direction du secrétariat exécutif. The G5 Sahel does vital work ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 16 February, 2021 | Topics: News, U.S. Secretary of State
Thursday, February 11, 2021 U.S. Embassy Statement on Benin’s Presidential Elections For more than thirty years the people of Benin have taken well-deserved pride in democratically held elections that ensure voters have a choice among candidates. The United States shares with the people of Benin their desire to sustain this most cherished function of a ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 11 February, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE FEBRUARY 8, 2021 The Biden administration has recommitted the United States to a foreign policy centered on democracy, human rights, and equality. Effective use of multilateral tools is an important element of that vision, and in that regard the President has instructed the Department of State ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 8 February, 2021 | Topics: News
U.S. Department of State Headquarters Harry S. Truman Building Washington, D.C. 2:45 P.M. EST THE PRESIDENT: Mr. Secretary, it’s great to be here with you. And I’ve been looking forward a long time to be able to call you “Mr. Secretary.” Good afternoon, everyone. It’s an honor to be back at the State Department under ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 8 February, 2021 | Topics: News
PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE FEBRUARY 4, 2021 Today, President Biden signed a Presidential Memorandum directing all U.S. government departments and agencies engaged abroad to ensure that U.S. diplomacy and foreign assistance promote and protect the human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) persons around the world. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 8 February, 2021 | Topics: News
PRESS STATEMENT NED PRICE, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON FEBRUARY 6, 2021 The United States in recent years has joined the international community on February 6 in observing the International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting (FGM/C). The United States remains committed to ending this egregious human rights abuse and supporting survivors of FGM/C, both ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 8 February, 2021 | Topics: News
Hello everyone— I’m honored to send the best wishes of the people of the United States in advance of the 34th African Union Summit. This past year has also shown us how interconnected our world is – and how our fates are bound up together. That’s why my administration is committed to rebuilding our partnerships ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 5 February, 2021 | Topics: Press Releases
On February 4, 2021, U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission Karen Gustafson de Andrade presided over the launch of the “Women’s Political Empowerment” project at INFOSEC in Cotonou. Funded by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, this Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF) project will be executed by the U.S.-Benin Women ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 5 February, 2021 | Topics: News
COTONOU, Benin, 4 February 2021 – The United States Government is assisting the Benin Human Rights Commission (BHRC) to educate young Beninese civil society leaders on civic engagement and human rights through a series of seven workshops in Benin. Through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the United States is supporting workshops in Cotonou, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 5 February, 2021 | Topics: News
This February, during Black History Month, I call on the American people to honor the history and achievements of Black Americans and to reflect on the centuries of struggle that have brought us to this time of reckoning, redemption, and hope. We have never fully lived up to the founding principles of this nation that ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 3 February, 2021 | Topics: News
PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE FEBRUARY 1, 2021 Today marks National Freedom Day, a day that commemorates President Abraham Lincoln’s signing of the joint resolution that established the Constitution’s 13th Amendment abolishing slavery in the United States. It is a day when, thanks to the decades-long push of Richard R. Wright and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 2 February, 2021 | Topics: News | Tags: Human Trafficking, Press Statement, Secretary Of State
Cotonou, Benin, January 28, 2021 – Officials from the United States and Benin will hold a series of meetings over the coming months to negotiate the terms of a Child Protection Compact (CPC) Partnership, a multi-year plan to address child sex trafficking and forced child labor in Benin. The partnership may include up to $10 ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 28 January, 2021 | Topics: News
Today, we join together with people from nations around the world to commemorate International Holocaust Remembrance Day by remembering the 6 million Jews, as well as the Roma and Sinti, Slavs, disabled persons, LGBTQ+ individuals, and many others, who were murdered by the Nazis and their collaborators during the Shoah. We must never forget the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 28 January, 2021 | Topics: News | Tags: President Biden
The U.S. Department of State and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) remind all travelers that beginning tomorrow, January 26, all air passengers two years of age or older arriving to the United States must provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test or proof of recovery from COVID-19 before boarding. This order applies ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 27 January, 2021 | Topics: News | Tags: COVID-19
His Excellency Mr. António Guterres Secretary-General United Nations New York Excellency: This letter constitutes a retraction by the Government of the United States of the letter dated July 6, 2020, notifying you that the Government of the United States intended to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), effective July 6, 2021. The United States ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 22 January, 2021 | Topics: News | Tags: President Biden
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION The United States was built on a foundation of religious freedom and tolerance, a principle enshrined in the United States Constitution. Nevertheless, the previous administration enacted a number of Executive Orders and Presidential Proclamations that prevented certain individuals from entering the United States — first from primarily ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 21 January, 2021 | Topics: News | Tags: immigration, President Biden, proclamation
The United States Capitol 11:52 AM EST THE PRESIDENT: Chief Justice Roberts, Vice President Harris, Speaker Pelosi, Leader Schumer, Leader McConnell, Vice President Pence, distinguished guests, and my fellow Americans. This is America’s day. This is democracy’s day. A day of history and hope. Of renewal and resolve. Through a crucible for the ages America ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 21 January, 2021 | Topics: News | Tags: President Biden
On January 14, Ambassador Mahoney opened a two-day workshop on open governance with the Mayor of Porto Novo and his staff, as well as President of Social Watch Benin Blanche Sonon. The workshop is part of the $375,000 Africa Regional Democracy Fund grant to Social Watch Benin to improve open governance in 20 communes throughout ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 14 January, 2021 | Topics: News
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Media Statement For Immediate Release January 12, 2021 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is expanding the requirement for a negative COVID-19 test to all air passengers entering the United States. Testing before and after travel is a critical layer to slow the introduction and spread of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 13 January, 2021 | Topics: News
The White House December 31, 2020 Human trafficking is a horrific assault on human dignity that affects people in the United States and around the world. It tears apart communities, fuels criminal activity, and threatens the national security of the United States. During National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, we reaffirm our commitment ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 4 January, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
On December 15, Ambassador Mahoney and the Minister of Decentralization and Local Governance Alassane Seidou officially launched MuniWASH, a five-year, $18 million activity that will improve water, sanitation, and hygiene services in underserved urban areas in Benin and Côte d’Ivoire. Taking place at the Benin National Association of Communes in Abomey-Calavi, the event welcomed mayors ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 15 December, 2020 | Topics: News
Are you thinking of attending university or graduate school? If the answer is yes, where you decide to go is a choice that can change your life. How do you decide? For more than a million international students from around the world the answer is the United States. Far more international students study in the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 14 December, 2020 | Topics: News
Through the Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation program, the Embassy was proud to sponsor the Trois Soeurs Education Fund’s efforts to record and publish Benin’s rich tradition of storytelling and traditional folktales. The project culminated on December 11th with the opening of a pop-up museum in Abomey-Calavi showcasing portraits of Benin’s storytellers and displaying works ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 11 December, 2020 | Topics: News | Tags: AFCP, DCM, Grants
U.S. Department Of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement by Secretary Michael R. Pompeo December 10, 2020 On International Human Rights Day, the United States celebrates the rights and freedoms enshrined in the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This day has a special resonance for Americans, as the United States was ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 11 December, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Press Statement by Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State December 8, 2020 On December 8, President Trump issued the Executive Order on Ensuring Access to United States Government COVID-19 Vaccines. The Executive Order provides a mandate for the United States to facilitate international access ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 9 December, 2020 | Topics: News
COTONOU, 7 December 2020 – In anticipation of Human Rights Day, the United States Government is supporting the Benin Human Rights Commission (BHRC) to engage and educate youth in Benin on human rights and their responsibilities as Beninese citizens. Through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the United States is assisting the BHRC in ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 7 December, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Human Rights, Program
Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State December 2, 2020 December 3 is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a fitting occasion for the United States to reaffirm its commitment to, and support for, the full inclusion of persons with disabilities in daily life of the community. We point with pride to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 3 December, 2020 | Topics: News
Special Briefing via Telephone December 1, 2020 Moderator: Good afternoon to everyone from the U.S. Department of State’s Africa Regional Media Hub. I would like to welcome our participants from across the continent and thank all of you for taking part in this discussion. Today, we are very pleased to be joined by Ambassador-at-Large ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 3 December, 2020 | Topics: News
U.S. Embassy Cotonou informs U.S. citizens that, effective November 25, 2020, the consular exchange rate increased from 590F CFA to 600F CFA ($1.00 US = 600F CFA). All consular service fees, including passports, Consular Reports of Birth Abroad, notarials, and visas, will reflect this new exchange rate. Payment for consular services at U.S. Embassy Cotonou ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 27 November, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens, News, U.S. Citizen Services
U.S. Department of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement by Secretary Michael R. Pompeo November 25, 2020 Around the world, violence against women harms not only millions of women and girls every year, but also their communities and families. Violence against women, whether in the workforce, the home, a school environment, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 25 November, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Gender
On November 6, 2020, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires a.i. Karen Gustafson de Andrade attended a small ceremony at Cotonou International Airport to help welcome home members of the Beninese Armed Forces who had been deployed to the Lake Chad Basin as part of the Multinational Joint Task Force’s (MNJTF) peacekeeping operations. The troops were transported by ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 18 November, 2020 | Topics: News | Tags: DOD, Program
USAID Office of Press Relations For Immediate Release November 17, 2020 Today, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Acting Deputy Administrator John Barsa announced a brand new, continent-wide Prosper Africa program in trade and investment. Worth up to $500 million over five years, subject to the availability of funds, this flagship program will offer ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 18 November, 2020 | Topics: News
U.S. Department Of State Office Of The Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement By Morgan Ortagus, Spokesperson November 1, 2020 A free press is essential to an informed citizenry. A vigorous press can, for instance, expose corruption, shine a light on human rights abuses, and provide the public essential information during crises. In many places, journalists fulfilling this necessary role risk attacks by authoritarian regimes and criminal organizations seeking to clamp down ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 5 November, 2020 | Topics: News
TOFFO, November 02, 2020 – The Chargé d’affaires ad interim of the U.S. Embassy to Benin, Karen Gustafson de Andrade, inaugurated classrooms at the Colli Middle School. The ceremony was held in the presence of the Chargée de Mission of the Prefect of the Atlantic department, Mrs. Paulette Eki, the Mayor of Toffo, Bibiane Adamazé Soglo, the Director of the Colli Middle School, Jean-Baptiste Gnanho, the Departmental Director of Secondary, and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 5 November, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Listen to or download the audio file
here . Moderator: Good afternoon to everyone from the U.S. Department of State’s Africa Regional Media Hub. I would like to welcome our participants from across the continent and thank all of you for taking part in this discussion. Today we are very pleased to be joined by Sean ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 30 October, 2020 | Topics: News
U.S. Department of State Office of The Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement by Secretary Michael R. Pompeo October 27, 2020 Twenty-two years ago today, the United States enacted the 1998 International Religious Freedom Act, reaffirming our commitment to promote and defend the fundamental right to religious freedom for all people everywhere. Born of the vision ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 28 October, 2020 | Topics: Press Releases
Demonstration Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (October 27, 2020) Location: Urban Areas Throughout Benin Event: The U.S. Embassy in Cotonou has received reports that demonstrators plan to march in urban areas throughout Benin, including Cotonou and Porto Novo, on Saturday, October 31, 2020, as part of a national women’s march. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 27 October, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Millenium Challenge Corporation (MCC) October 21, 2020 WASHINGTON, D.C., October 21, 2020 – The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and Africa50 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop and launch the Millennium Impact for Infrastructure Accelerator (MIIA) Development Partnership. The new MIIA entity will be a global investment platform designed to spur and attract impact ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 22 October, 2020 | Topics: News
U.S. Department Of State Office of the Spokesperson For Immediate Release Statement by Secretary Michael R. Pompeo October 8, 2020 The United States is committed to supporting free, fair, inclusive elections. The conduct of elections is important not only for Africans, but also for defenders of democracy around the world. We believe all sides should ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 21 October, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
COTONOU, October 16, 2020 – The United States Government is supporting 40 entrepreneurs in Benin to promote handwashing and affordable sanitation and hygiene products as part of its support to COVID-19 response. Through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the United States is working with the entrepreneurs to promote and sell their products to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 21 October, 2020 | Topics: News | Tags: Benin, Program
COTONOU, October 1, 2020 – The United States Ambassador to Benin, Patricia Mahoney, and the Minister of the Interior and Public Security, Sacca Lafia, signed a letter of agreement allowing for the establishment of a Special Program for Embassy Augmentation and Response (SPEAR) team in Benin. The signing ceremony was held at the Ministry of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 1 October, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Embassy of the United States of America Cotonou, Benin Message for U.S. Citizens: Don’t Let the Elections Pass You By September 30, 2020 If you plan to vote in the November 2020 election it is important to ACT NOW! Don’t wait, carefully follow your state’s voting instructions, and return your voted ballot right away! Remember U.S. embassies and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 30 September, 2020 | Topics: News, U.S. Citizen Services
COTONOU, September 22, 2020 – The United States Ambassador to Benin, Patricia Mahoney, officially distributed a shipment of personal protective equipment (PPE) worth 41.8 million CFA ($75,000) to the Army Training Hospital on September 22, 2020. This donation was funded by the U.S. Department of Defense’s Overseas Humanitarian Disaster and Civic Aid (OHDACA) program as ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 24 September, 2020 | Topics: News
International Day of Democracy U.S. Department of State Press Statement Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State September 14, 2020 In recognition of the International Day of Democracy on September 15, we reaffirm the right of every citizen to take part in the processes of democratic self-governance. Democracies are accountable to their citizens. They respect ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 15 September, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Reconsider travel to Benin due to COVID-19. Read the Department of State’s COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Benin due to COVID-19. Benin has resumed most transportation options (including airport operations) and business operations (including day cares and schools), although land borders remain closed to most travelers. Other improved ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 9 September, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: The Government of Benin is conducting mandatory COVID-19 testing of all airline passengers arriving in and departing from Benin. Tests are at the passenger’s expense, and must be paid in cash. For arrivals, fees are 100,000 CFA (approximately $180). Airlines may require passengers to present proof of payment in CFA or its Euro equivalent ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 18 August, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Department of State Bureau of African Affairs Dipnote Elizabeth “Liz” Liu Foreign Service Officer Special Coordinator for the Young African Leaders Initiative August 7, 2020 It’s hard to believe it, but this week marked the 10th anniversary of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). In 2010, 115 young leaders came to Washington to participate ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 13 August, 2020 | Topics: News
Reconsider travel to Benin due to COVID-19. Read the Department of State’s
COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for Benin due to COVID-19. Benin has lifted stay at home orders and resumed some transportation options and business operations. Visit the Embassy’s
COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in Benin. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 10 August, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (July 8, 2020) Location: Benin Event: Multiple airlines have scheduled flights in and out of Cotonou within the next two weeks, including Air France, Brussels Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and Turkish Airways. Interested travelers should contact these carriers directly for schedules and booking. All travelers should confirm with the airlines transit/transfer requirements for connections to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 8 July, 2020 | Topics: Alert, U.S. Citizen Services
Location: Northern Border Region of Benin and Park W Event: The Embassy has received reports of suspicious activity near Park W in northern Benin. There continue to be reports of suspicious activity in the northern border region of Benin and Park W. The Embassy closely evaluates the security environment and reports of suspicious activity and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 26 June, 2020 | Topics: Alert
(June 22, 2020) Location: Benin Event:The Government of Benin is conducting mandatory COVID-19 testing of all airline passengers arriving in Benin. Tests are at passenger expense; fees of 100,000 CFA or €153 (approximately $165) must be paid in cash, and airlines may require proof of ability to pay as a condition of boarding. Travelers may ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 22 June, 2020 | Topics: Alert
The United States government, through U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), is proud to contribute $60,000 in equipment and supplies to support the Ministry of Health’s efforts to expand Beninese COVID-19 testing capacity by establishing diagnostic laboratories in Kandi and Lokossa. This assistance is in addition to the $4.5 million that the United States government, through USAID, contributed in April to limit the spread of COVID-19 in Benin. Since the outbreak ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 16 June, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Ambassador Mahoney, COVID-19
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (June 12, 2020) Location: Benin Event: The following companies have announced flight options out of Cotonou. Please note that all flights are subject to change. Travelers should confirm transit/transfer requirements for all connections to the United States. Passengers whose flights were cancelled should contact their airline directly for information about rebooking options.
Air France has scheduled ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 12 June, 2020 | Topics: Alert, U.S. Citizen Services
Fact Sheet Office Of The Spokesperson June11, 2020 For decades, American diplomats have supported women as leaders in efforts to prevent conflict, counter terrorism and violent extremism, and promote security around the world. In 2017, the United States became the first government in the world to enact comprehensive legislation on the role of women ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 12 June, 2020 | Topics: News
Demonstration Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (June 10, 2020) Location: Cotonou, Benin: Areas of the Etoile Rouge, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs complex, and surrounding areas Event: The U.S. Embassy in Cotonou has received reports that a demonstration is planned for Thursday, June 11, 2020, at 0800 to protest current events in the United States. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 10 June, 2020 | Topics: Alert, U.S. Citizen Services
U.S. Embassy Statement on Planned Peaceful Protests We welcome the wide range of voices organizing peacefully in the United States, Benin, and around the world to protest injustice and call for change following George Floyd’s tragic death. Throughout American history, our people have gathered peacefully to demand accountability from our leaders. The United States and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 10 June, 2020 | Topics: News
Location: Benin Event: Face masks or cloth coverings continue to be required in public, and social distancing guidelines remain in place in Benin. Public transportation has resumed, and places of worship may now be open. For more information, visit the Government of Benin’s
COVID-19 website (in French). Air France is offering limited flights between Cotonou and Paris. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 4 June, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (May 27, 2020) Location: Benin Event: Air France is offering limited flights between Cotonou and Paris. These flights are tentatively scheduled weekly on Thursday mornings. Passengers who wish to return to the United States must be able to secure a connecting onward flight from Paris to a destination in ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 27 May, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (May 20, 2020) Location: Benin Event: Air France is offering limited flights between Cotonou and Paris. These flights are tentatively scheduled weekly on Thursday mornings. Passengers who wish to return to the United States must be able to secure a connecting onward flight from Paris to a destination in ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 20 May, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (May 14, 2020) Location: Benin Event: On May 12, the Government of Benin announced mandatory COVID-19 testing of all airline passengers arriving in Benin. Tests will be done at passenger expense; fees are 100,000 CFA (approximately $165/€153), payable in cash only, and airlines may require advance payment as a ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 14 May, 2020 | Topics: Alert, U.S. Citizen Services
Embassy of the United States of America Cotonou, Benin Message for U.S. Citizens: May 13, 2020 The Consular Section cordially invites U.S. citizens in Benin to a virtual discussion with Ambassador Mahoney and consular representatives on Wednesday, May 20, at 6:00p.m. The Ambassador will provide an update on recent developments and U.S. Embassy activities and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 13 May, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: As of May 12, the Government of Benin has confirmed 327 cases of COVID-19. Air France has indicated it is offering limited flights from Cotonou to Paris. Passengers who wish to return to the United States must be able to secure a connecting onward flight from Paris to a destination in the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 12 May, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (May 7, 2020) Location: Benin Event: As of May 7, the Government of Benin has confirmed 140 cases of COVID-19. The Government of Benin announced that it will lift the health cordon around southern Benin effective on May 11. Facemasks or cloth coverings continue to be required in public, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 7 May, 2020 | Topics: Alert, U.S. Citizen Services
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (May 4, 2020) Location: Benin Event: As of May 4, the Government of Benin has confirmed 96 cases of COVID-19, including two deaths. Air France is offering limited repatriation flights from Cotonou to Paris with priority for French and EU nationals. These flights may have capacity for individuals who ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 4 May, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (April 30, 2020) Location: Benin Event: On April 28, the Government of Benin announced that wearing facemasks in public is now required nationwide. The Embassy has received reports that failure to comply with this policy may result in fines. At this time, it is unknown when the next commercial flight with onward connections ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 30 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: As of April 27, the Government of Benin has confirmed 65 cases of COVID-19. Ethiopian Airlines has informed the Embassy it no longer expects to operate a flight from Cotonou to Addis Ababa on May 1 due to lack of demand. At this time, it is unknown when the next commercial flight with ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 27 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (April 23, 2020) Location: Benin Event: Ethiopian Airlines is currently selling tickets for a flight from Cotonou to Addis Ababa on May 1, pending sufficient demand, with onward connections to the United States. Plans for future flights are unknown, and travelers are reminded that flight schedules are subject to change ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 23 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: As of April 20, the Government of Benin has confirmed 54 cases of COVID-19, including one death. The Government of Benin has closed schools and houses of worship through May 10. The government requires everyone within the health cordon zone in southern Benin to wear face masks in public and recommends their ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 20 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
April 13, 2020 Location: Benin Event: The Embassy has arranged a special commercial flight from Cotonou to Lomé, Togo, on Tuesday, April 14, for onward travel to Newark, New Jersey. A limited number of seats are available on a first come, first served basis. Tickets must be purchased before 17:00 today, Monday, April 13. U.S. citizens can purchase tickets ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 13 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
April 13, 2020 Location: Benin Event: The Embassy has arranged a special commercial flight from Cotonou to Lomé, Togo, on Tuesday, April 14, for onward travel to Newark, New Jersey. A limited number of seats are available on a first come, first served basis. Tickets must be purchased before 17:00 today, Monday, April 13. U.S. citizens can purchase tickets from ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 13 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (April 11, 2020) Location: Benin Event: The Embassy has arranged a special commercial flight from Cotonou to Lomé, Togo, on Tuesday, April 14, for onward travel to Newark, New Jersey. A limited number of seats are available on a first come, first served basis. Tickets must be purchased before 17:00 on Monday, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 11 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: The Embassy has arranged a special commercial flight from Cotonou to Lomé, Togo, on Tuesday, April 14, for onward travel to Newark, New Jersey. A limited number of seats are available on a first come, first served basis. Tickets must be purchased before 17:00 on Monday, April 13. U.S. citizens can purchase ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 10 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: The Embassy has arranged a special commercial flight from Cotonou to Lomé, Togo, on Tuesday, April 14, for onward travel to Newark, New Jersey. A limited number of seats are available on a first come, first served basis. U.S. citizens can purchase tickets from Cotonou to Newark directly from Ethiopian Airlines by ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 9 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: As of April 7, the Government of Benin has confirmed 26 cases of COVID-19 within and outside the health cordon zone, including one death and several cases of local transmission. Ethiopian Airlines cancelled its April 11 flight due to lack of demand; plans for future flights are not known. There are no other ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 7 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: On April 3, the Government of Benin extended its closure of all places of worship through April 19. Visit the
COVID-19 website of the Government of Benin for additional information on the measures it is taking to limit the spread of COVID-19. U.S. citizens who wish to return to the United States should make commercial flight arrangements immediately. Those choosing to shelter in place should prepare to remain ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 5 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: U.S. citizens who wish to return to the United States should make commercial arrangements immediately. Those choosing to shelter in place should prepare to remain abroad for an indefinite period. The U.S. government does not anticipate arranging repatriation flights from Benin at this time. Pending sufficient demand for seats, Ethiopian Airlines is offering a flight to Addis Ababa on April 11 with an onward connection ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 4 April, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: As of March 30, commercial flights out of Benin exist but are significantly reduced. Ethiopian Airlines is offering seats on flights to Addis Ababa on April 4 and April 11, with onward connections to the United States. Air France has organized weekly specially scheduled flights, including on April 2, with priority given ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 30 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: Benin has confirmed six cases of COVID-19 within its borders. Beginning Monday, March 30, the Government of Benin will establish a health cordon around the municipalities of Cotonou, Abomey-Calavi, Allada, Ouidah, Sèmè-Podji, Porto-Novo, Akpro-Missérété, and Adjarra in order to isolate them from the rest of the country and contain the spread of COVID-19. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 29 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: Benin has confirmed six cases of COVID-19 within its borders. Beginning Monday, March 30, the Government of Benin will establish a health cordon around the municipalities of Cotonou, Abomey-Calavi, Allada, Ouidah, Sèmè-Podji, Porto-Novo, Akpro-Missérété, and Adjarra in order to isolate them from the rest of the country and contain the spread of COVID-19. This ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 29 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: Benin has six confirmed cases of COVID-19 within its borders. In accordance with local public health recommendations, the U.S. Embassy in Cotonou, Benin has reduced operations to emergency services only from March 30 to April 13. U.S. citizens with emergencies should contact American Citizen Services at
ACSCotonou@state.gov or call +229 21 36 75 ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 27 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: As of March 26, 2020, Ethiopian Airlines is the only commercial carrier serving Cotonou’s Cadjehoun Airport with a regularly scheduled flight. U.S. citizens who are considering returning to the United States are urged to work with Ethiopian Airlines immediately to make travel arrangements while flights are available. If you are unable to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 26 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert – U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin Location: Benin Event: In accordance with local public health recommendations, the United States Embassy in Cotonou, Benin, will be closed for all but emergency services from March 30 to April 13, 2020. U.S. citizens with emergencies should contact American Citizen Services at
ACSCotonou@state.gov or call +229 21 36 75 00. Those ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 25 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: The Embassy has received reports suggesting possible anti-foreigner sentiment related to the spread of COVID-19 in Benin. Incidents of verbal harassment related to COVID-19 have been reported by U.S. citizens and other foreigners, along with difficulty or delays in obtaining access to routine medical care due to concerns that foreigners may have and transmit ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 24 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Last updated: July 21, 2021 Effective January 26, all airline passengers traveling to the United States ages two years and older must provide a negative COVID-19 viral test taken within three calendar days of travel. Alternatively, travelers to the United States may provide documentation from a licensed health care provider of having recovered from COVID-19 ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 24 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: The availability of commercial flights from Benin to the United States is increasingly limited, with some carriers having suspended flights to/from Cotonou. Many travelers seeking to depart Benin to return to the United States have also reported unexpected flight cancellations. As of March 23, the only remaining commercial options of which the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 23 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: Correction to the previous alert message regarding the status of Peace Corps in Benin. On March 17, the Government of Benin released an advisory in response to a confirmed case of COVID-19 in Benin. The language of the advisory is available on its
website (in French). The government of Benin has implemented enhanced screening ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 19 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (March 18, 2020) Location: Benin Event: On March 17, the Government of Benin released an advisory in response to a confirmed case of COVID-19 in Benin. The language of the advisory is available on its
website (in French). The government of Benin has implemented enhanced screening and quarantine measures to reduce the spread ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 18 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Health Issues
Exercise increased caution in Benin due to COVID-19. Read the Department of State’s
COVID-19 page before you plan any international travel. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 1 Travel Health Notice for Benin due to COVID-19. Benin has resumed most transportation options (including airport operations) and business operations (including day cares and schools), although land borders remain closed to most travelers. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 17 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert, Notification
Location: Cotonou, Benin Event: On March 16, Benin’s Ministry of Health announced one confirmed case of COVID-19 in Cotonou, Benin. The Government of Benin has implemented enhanced screening and quarantine measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Persons entering Benin from countries affected by COVID-19 (including countries with only a single case of COVID-19) must identify themselves by ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 16 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
Location: Benin Event: As of March 10, 2020, there are no suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Benin. On March 3, 2020, the Beninese Ministry of Health released an advisory regarding the potential for COVID-19 in Benin. The language of the advisory is available on its website (
Communiqué du ministre de la Santé (in French)). Persons entering Benin who are coming from countries affected ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 10 March, 2020 | Topics: Alert
TIBOR P. NAGY, JR., ASSISTANT SECRETARY BUREAU OF AFRICAN AFFAIRS FEBRUARY 19, 2020 Ensuring a peaceful, stable, and democratic future for Africa’s people is incredibly important, given what is at stake. Within the next 30 years, the population of Africa is projected to double to over 2 billion people, 70 percent of whom will ...
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 4 March, 2020 | Topics: News | Tags: Program, Youth
On February 5, United States Ambassador Patricia Mahoney visited Serou to inaugurate a new school constructed with support from the United States Department of Defense. This school is one of six new schools build around Benin as part of the Department’s humanitarian assistance program. The school contains a block of four classrooms, a solar panel ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 19 February, 2020 | Topics: News | Tags: DOD, Inauguration
On February 5, 2020, Ambassador Mahoney paid a visit to His Majesty King Kpetoni-Koda IV of Djougou. During the visit, the two discussed ways to continue to work together to achieve the shared goals of economic development and religious tolerance, while also discussing the challenges of youth unemployment and economic migration. The Ambassador expressed her ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 12 February, 2020 | Topics: Art & Culture, News | Tags: Mahoney
Location: Benin Event: Heightened Middle East Tensions There is heightened tension in the Middle East that may result in security risks to U.S. citizens abroad. The Embassy will continue to review the security situation and will provide additional information as needed. Actions to Take: Keep a low profile; Be aware of your surroundings; Stay alert ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 8 January, 2020 | Topics: Alert
December 17, 2019 Event: Holidays in Benin provide increased risk for criminal activity. There is a heightened risk of armed robbery, assault, and kidnapping. Travelers to Benin are perceived to have gifts or large amounts of cash. Actions to Take: Exercise additional vigilance throughout the holiday season and at holiday events. Review your personal security ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 18 December, 2019 | Topics: Alert
U.S. Embassy Cotonou General Services Office (GSO) will dispose of U.S. Government property at an auction open to the general public on Saturday, November 23, 2019, from 08:00-17:00 at the Embassy service entrance near INFOSEC. Items to be auctioned include: office and household furniture, office equipment, computer parts, appliances, used vehicles, and other assorted ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 20 November, 2019 | Topics: Commercial Opportunities | Tags: Auction, Benin, Cotonou, US Embassy
On September 11, members of the U.S.S.F received their certificates after six weeks of intensive training provided by the US Marines. Ambassador Patricia Mahoney and the Director General of the Republican Police Soumaïla Yaya both attended the ceremony. The program, made possible through the collaboration between the Government of Benin and the U.S. Embassy, strengthens border ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 17 September, 2019 | Topics: News | Tags: Program
Location: Northwestern Benin Event: There are reports of possible threats to local government facilities in the department of Atakora, in northwestern Benin, over the next few days. Actions to Take: Avoid large crowds Monitor local media for updates Review your personal security plans Carry a fully charged cellphone and emergency numbers Assistance:
S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin +(229) 21-30-75-00
ConsularCotonou@state.gov State ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 31 July, 2019 | Topics: Alert
COTONOU-June 27 – U.S. Embassy Cotonou marked the 243rd anniversary of the United States’ independence. The celebration’s theme was space exploration to mark the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing on July 20, 1969. U.S. Ambassador to Benin, Patricia Mahoney, said both events represent the history of human race, of all the peoples ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 9 July, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases
The U.S. Ambassador to Benin Patricia Mahoney inaugurated new facilities at the General High School of Kpakpa-Agbagoulè, in the city of Dassa-Zoumé, on June 20, 2019. This building, funded by the U.S. Department of Defense, is composed of two classrooms, one office, eight latrines, and a rainwater collection system for hand washing. The building’s construction ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 27 June, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Inauguration, Program
Location: Republic of Benin and its land borders Event: Benin’s land border with Togo will be closed for elections in the Republic of Togo on Sunday June 30, 2019. Please plan your travel accordingly. Actions to Take: Monitor local media for updates. Be aware of your surroundings. Do not plan overland travel to Togo. Assistance: ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 26 June, 2019 | Topics: Alert
Ambassador Mahoney visited the University of Abomey-Calavi on June 13, 2019. She was accompanied by Public Affairs Officer Christopher Helmkamp. During this visit, Rector Maxime da Cruz and his team welcomed the diplomats to the campus and discussed the excellent cooperation that exits between the U.S. Embassy and the university. The English Club Summit and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 14 June, 2019 | Topics: Art & Culture, Education, News
Location: Tchaourou (about 50 km south of Parakou) Event: Protests in Tchaourou over several days have resulted in intermittent blocking of trafficking along the Cotonou-Malanville road and reports of some violent encounters and significant security force presence in the area. Consider alternate routes when traveling between Dassa and Parakou. Actions to Take: Avoid the area. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 13 June, 2019 | Topics: Alert
Toni Blackman and Polaryss, two U.S. rappers, toured in Benin for two weeks as part of a program known as « Rhyme like a Beninese Girl ». During this tour organized by U.S. Embassy Cotonou, the two artists hosted masterclasses with local rap musicians, music students, as well as professional musicians. These masterclasses took place at ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 12 June, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Hip Hop, music, Program
From June 4-June 6, U.S. Embassy Cotonou held a symposium on the theme “Combating border and transnational crime between Benin, Togo, Burkina Faso and Nigeria: Lessons learned from the American-Mexican border.” About 30 investigators and prosecutors from Benin, Togo, Burkina-Faso and Nigeria attended the training given by experts from the Drug Enforcement Agency, the U.S. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 5 June, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Program
Location: Park Pendjari, Northern Benin Event: On May 1, two Western tourists and their guide disappeared in Park Pendjari, in northern Benin. Actions to Take: Avoid the park complex, to include Parks Pendjari and W and adjacent hunting zones. Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin +(229) 21-30-75-00
ConsularCotonou@state.gov State Department – Consular Affairs 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
Benin Country Information Enroll in
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates Follow ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 7 May, 2019 | Topics: Alert
May 2, 2019 Location: Cotonou, Cadjehoun and Haie Vive neighborhoods Event: Civil disturbances reported in Cadjehoun and Haie Vive, with numerous roads blocked or impassible. Avoid the area and minimize movement in nearby areas of Cotonou. Similar disturbances could occur without warning through the weekend. Actions to Take: Avoid the area Avoid crowds and demonstrations Monitor local ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 2 May, 2019 | Topics: Alert
2nd Security Alert – U. S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin (May 1, 2019) Location: Cotonou Event: Due to continued reports of unrest and blocked street throughout central Cotonou, U.S. citizens are advised to minimize their movements this evening. Continue to monitor local media. Actions to Take: Remain at home or in a safe place Avoid crowds and demonstrations Be aware of your surroundings Keep ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 1 May, 2019 | Topics: Alert
Location: Cotonou, Haie Vive Event: Disturbances reported near Haie Vive, with roads blocked from Place de Martyrs to the Vedeko roundabout. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the area, remain vigilant, and monitor local media. Actions to Take: Avoid the area Avoid crowds, and demonstrations Be aware of your surroundings Keep a low profile Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin +(229) 21-30-75-00
ConsularCotonou@state.gov State ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 1 May, 2019 | Topics: Alert
Statement from the U.S. Embassy in Cotonou regarding Benin’s 2019 Legislative Elections April 28 April 29th, 2019 ———————————————— The inability of opposition parties to participate led to legislative elections on April 28 that were neither fully competitive nor inclusive and do not reflect the Benin that we know. We regret that social media platforms and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 29 April, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Democracy, Election, Statement
Location: Republic of Benin and its land borders Event: Benin’s land borders may be closed for legislative elections on Sunday, April 28, 2019. Please plan your travel accordingly. Demonstrations may occur throughout the election period. Actions to Take: Monitor local media for updates. Avoid crowds and demonstrations Be aware of your surroundings Keep a low profile Carry ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 24 April, 2019 | Topics: Alert
From February 25-March 1, U.S. Embassy Cotonou held a training on election coverage at INFOSEC in Cotonou. About thirty participants from various types of media attended the training given by investigative journalist Daniel Glick. Glick exchanged with participants on various topics including the difference between public relations and journalism, the search for reliable sources, the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 6 March, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: media, press
The mass of oratory in English was said this Saturday, February 23, 2019 at ISMA Fidjrossè. The contest that has become a tradition in the month of February since 2017 has had its epilogue. The event aims to promote freedom of expression, activism, give voice to young people and encourage the use and promotion of ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 27 February, 2019 | Topics: News
Location: Possible Nigerian land border closures February 22-25, 2019 Event: Due to Nigerian presidential elections taking place on Saturday, February 23, Nigerian land border crossings may be closed between Friday, February 22 and Monday, February 25. Please plan your travel accordingly. Actions to Take: Avoid demonstrations and crowds. Monitor local media for breaking events and be ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 22 February, 2019 | Topics: Alert
Location: Cotonou, Littoral Event: The Ministry of Health in Benin confirmed one new case of Lassa fever in Cotonou. Lassa fever is a rare but potentially life-threatening viral hemorrhagic disease. Actions to Take: Consult a medical professional if you have been in direct contact with an infected person within the past three weeks and have ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 27 December, 2018 | Topics: Alert
The United States Supports Benin’s Peaceful Use of Nuclear Technology ********** U.S. Embassy Cotonou and the Government of Benin organized a workshop on nuclear safeguards last week. The workshop mainly focused on the key-points of nuclear non-proliferation related to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), which Benin signed in 1972. The NPT, whose first goal ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 19 December, 2018 | Topics: Press Releases
MCC Board Selects Benin as Eligible to Develop a Concurrent Regional Compact ********** Cotonou, Benin. Dec. 13—The Millennium Challenge Corporation Board of Directors held its quarterly meeting on December 11, 2018 and approved Benin as eligible to develop a concurrent regional compact. Earlier this year, the United States Congress granted MCC the authority to select ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 18 December, 2018 | Topics: Press Releases | Tags: Program
Location: Parc W in northeastern Benin. Event: Due to recent security concerns in regions within close proximity to Benin’s northeastern border, U.S. Embassy personnel are prohibited from personal travel to Parc W in northeastern Benin. Actions to Take: Avoid travel to Parc W Be aware of your surroundings Keep a low profile Stay alert in ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 17 December, 2018 | Topics: Alert
Location: Department of Borgou, near Parakou Event: The Ministry of Health in Benin confirmed two cases of Lassa fever with other cases suspected. Lassa fever is a rare but potentially life-threatening viral hemorrhagic disease. Actions to Take: · Consult a medical professional if you have been in direct contact with an infected person within the past ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 11 December, 2018 | Topics: Alert
The American jazz band the Ari Roland Quartet was in Benin the first week of December 2018 as part of a cultural exchange program of the United States Embassy Cotonou. This quartet of musicians from New York participated in exchange sessions with students and Beninese artists. During their stay, the group performed free concerts, including at the Place du Souvenir on Sunday December 2, 2018, a ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 10 December, 2018 | Topics: Art & Culture, News | Tags: music
CDA Laura Hruby visited two schools in Bouka and Derassi on Monday November 19. She saw first hand the results of USDA-CRS Food For Education program. The program aims at increasing school attendance by providing a nourishing meal. The program also educated students, families and community members on good sanitation, food preparation, and stock management ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 28 November, 2018 | Topics: News
Ambassador’s Introductory Statement Departure Press Roundtable September 13, 2018, 10am, Embassy MPR (TBC) Thank you very much for joining me here today. I will be leaving Benin shortly and appreciate this opportunity to share with you some of the accomplishments of the U.S. Mission in Benin over the last three years. These accomplishments have ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 17 October, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
On September 25, 2013, the U.S. Embassy Chargé in Benin Laura Hruby officially handed over two mobile booths to the recently installed Republican Police. The donation aims to assist the police in serving citizens better by meeting their needs and ensuring security. The endowment comes along with a number of efforts by the U.S. Embassy ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 25 September, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Event: Local media has reported that a march/demonstration will occur on September 13th starting at 8:00 a.m. The intended route will be from the Bourse du Travail building just east of camp Guezo, to Etoile Rouge Circle northeast of Cotonou International Airport. It is possible that 1,000 or more people will take part in this labor union ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 12 September, 2018 | Topics: Alert
OUIDAH— September 1st, 2018 : The U.S. Embassy Chargé Laura Hruby, and the Mayor of Ouidah Célestine Adjanonhoun, attended the closing of a girls’ basketball camp at the Regional Institute for Public Health (IRSP) in Ouidah. Known as Special Envoy Basketball Camp, the camp was organized by the U.S. Embassy and NGO OLADE, with the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 6 September, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: GirlsEmpowerment, SportsDiplomacy
As part of the Disaster Management Preparedness cooperation, the North Dakota National Guard, through the Embassy and US AFRICOM, offered two containers of equipment and materials to Benin’s Fire Brigade. Following a request made by the Ministry of National Defense on December 2016, the Embassy requested the assistance of AFRICOM and the State Partnership Program ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 29 August, 2018 | Topics: News
From July 23-28, 2018, the Idriss Déby Itno amphitheater of the University of Abomey-Calavi (UAC) hosted the Democracy Workshops (ADEMO), organized by the Benin Yali Alumni Association, in collaboration with U.S. Embassy Cotonou. As part of the workshops, about 1,000 Beninese young leaders received training on the functioning of the branches of central and local ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 6 August, 2018 | Topics: News
15 journalists from print, radio, and television media took part in a training on investigative journalism from July 2-6 in Cotonou. The training was initiated by the Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Embassy in Cotonou. Daniel Glick, the trainer and journalist, discussed with Beninese journalists to the concept of investigative journalism, the rights and ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 10 July, 2018 | Topics: Art & Culture, News
U.S. Embassy Reiterates Commitment to Support Benin in Eradicating Trafficking in Persons ********** The U.S. Department of State has removed Benin from the watch list on the 2018 annual Trafficking in Persons Report. However, Benin remains ranked as a Tier 2 country, which indicates that despite its efforts, the West African country has yet to ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 29 June, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases, Reports
U.S. Embassy COTONOU Benin: Disposition of Remains Report May 30, 2018 The following information is submitted in accordance with referenced requirements to provide current data on Beninese law governing and costs of the disposition of remains. The local regulations and policies remain the same. Part I. Name of Country Benin Part II. U.S. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 5 June, 2018 | Topics: Exclude, U.S. Citizen Services
Angelle Kwemo, CEO of Rimsom Strategies, a firm that provides international trade advisory and strategic advice to multidimensional entities, gave her first training session to Beninese women entrepreneurs on April 3 at Obama Center, University of Abomey-Calavi. This training which consisted in sharing strategies with participants to grow their businesses, comes as part of a ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 3 April, 2018 | Topics: News
On Saturday, February 24, PAS Cotonou held the second edition of the MLK Slam Poetry Contest, in collaboration with local media institute ‘’L’Institut Superieur des Métiers de l’Audiovisuel’’ (ISMA). Over 100 Beninese submitted expressions of interest, audio files, and videos seeking to compete in either the junior (under 14) or senior (over 14) division. 17 ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 28 February, 2018 | Topics: Art & Culture, Education, News | Tags: slam
In 2016, an invasive crop pest called the fall armyworm (FAW) was first confirmed in Africa. Native to the Americas, FAW can feed on 80 different crop species including maize, a staple food consumed by over 300 million African smallholder farm families. The crop pest has since been found in over 30 African countries, posing ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 16 February, 2018 | Topics: Events, News
PAS Cotonou organized Benin’s first ever English Clubs Summit, which gathered 132 English club leaders from all over the country for a three-day training and networking program. The program, funded by a grant from Embassy Cotonou, was implemented by the Benin National Teachers of English Association (BNTEA) in partnership with “Titigweti English Club,” the largest ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 26 January, 2018 | Topics: English Language Learning, News | Tags: English learning, Program
Location: Atacora and Borgou Regions, Benin Event: The Ministry of Health in Benin reported 10 cases of Lassa fever, a rare but potentially life-threatening viral hemorrhagic disease. Actions to Take: Consult a medical professional if you have been in direct contact with an infected person within the past three weeks and have symptoms of Lassa ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 24 January, 2018 | Topics: Alert
As the holiday season approaches, the U.S. Embassy in Cotonou reminds everyone to practice good security habits. Benin has traditionally experienced an increase in crimes of opportunity such as robberies, pick-pocketing, purse snatching, thefts from vehicles, and residential break-ins during the holiday season. The Embassy reminds all U.S. citizens to remain vigilant and use extreme caution ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 18 December, 2017 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages
December 6, 2017 As part of the Department of State’s continuous efforts to provide U.S. citizens traveling abroad with information about safety and security events, we are updating the Worldwide Caution with information on the continuing threat of terrorist actions, political violence, and criminal activity against U.S. citizens and interests abroad. This replaces the Worldwide ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 8 December, 2017 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages
COTONOU – July 18, 2017: The Beninese YALI Alumni Association (BYAA) organized a clean up campaign at the Cotonou Civil Prison, Hubert Koutoukou Maga National University Hospital Center (CNHU-HKM) and at the University of Abomey-Calavi. The purpose of the initiative was to commemorate Mandela Day; celebrated every July 18 in tribute to former South African ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 18 July, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
COTONOU- The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and USAID handed over essential equipment for neonatal health to the Minister of Health, Dr Alassane Seidou in a ceremony at the Central Supply of Essential Medicines and Medical Consumables (CAME) in Cotonou on July 17. “It is estimated that 37,000 children under five die each year in ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 17 July, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
COTONOU- July 11, 2017: The handbook of procedure of the narcotics cases in Benin is a compendium of good practices in the repression of the offenses related to the narcotics in Benin. This document, which benefited from the technical and financial support of the Embassy of the United States of America, was drafted by Beninese ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 11 July, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Ambassador Lucy Tamlyn and Embassy Cotonou invited members celebrated the 241st anniversary of the Declaration of Independence of the United States of America, by inviting members of the government, heads of civil society, and institutions on Thursday, June 29, 2017. Representative of the government of Benin, Minister of Justice Joseph Djogbenou praised the long standing ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 29 June, 2017 | Topics: News
$403 Million USD Millennium Challenge Corporation Benin Agreement Enters into Force, Launching Projects focused on Power Sector ********** COTONOU, BENIN: On June 22, 2017 the Minister in Charge of Planning and Development, Abdouaye Bio Tchané, the official representative of President Patrice Talon, and Ambassador of the United States of America to Benin Lucy Tamlyn presided ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 22 June, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
COTONOU-06 March 2017: The Mission to Benin hosted a panel discussion of female members of law enforcement as part of the International Women’s Day on March 8. Active and retired female police officers, gendarmes, and magistrates spoke about their careers and the constraints related to to sexual harassment and discrimination. The panel of personalities included: ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 6 March, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Press Releases
The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens that personal travel for U.S. government employees to Parc W is now permitted. As a reminder, it is mandatory for visitors of Parc W to register at the official points of entry and retain a registered park guide for the duration of their stay. This message supersedes the previous message ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 9 February, 2017 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages
By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 18 August, 2016 | Topics: Exclude All, Press Releases
If you believe you are the victim of an Internet scam: 1. Do not send money. Unfortunately, any money that you might already have sent will probably not be recoverable. 2. End all communication with the scammer immediately, rather than attempt resolution directly. If you feel threatened, contact your local police at once. Do ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 10 August, 2016 | Topics: Messages for U.S. Citizens, U.S. Citizen Services
Advertised government tenders or other business opportunities that may be of interest to the U.S. business community can be found at
http://www.gouv.bj/ , (click on the link “appels d’offre”)
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 10 August, 2016 | Topics: Economic Affairs, U.S. Citizen Services
When a new contest is launched, it will be advertised here. This contest is only open to library members. If you want to be a library member, just fill the form at
http://tinyurl.com/cotonouacc and two weeks later you come to the Embassy to pick your member card. It is simple as that!
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 10 August, 2016 | Topics: Events, News | Tags: Contest, IRC, Library
From Feb. 1-4, with Mission Driven Alumni Funding from ECA’s Alumni Affairs Office, U.S. Embassy Cotonou hosted 35youth from Benin and 15 from Niger for a TechCamp to create a movement using the power of technology to galvanize youth involvement during the upcoming elections in each country. Mission utilized YALI Alumni from five different countries ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 9 July, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages
On december 3, 2015, before a crowd of nearly 1,000 students, Mission’s Public Affairs Officer, Paco Perez, award-winning actor, Djimon Hounsou, USAID/BENIN HIV-AIDS specialist Tom Van Boven, and Vice Prime Minister of Benin, Professor Francois Abiola all provided passionate remarks commemorating world AIDS day. Students from seven private universities who participated in a “campus without ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 9 July, 2016 | Topics: News
On behalf of the United States, I would like to express my deepest condolences to the family of former President Mathieu Kerekou. The United States mourns with the people of Benin. President Kerekou served as an example to the entire African continent by moving Benin firmly in the direction of democratic governance. During his elected ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 8 July, 2016 | Topics: Exclude, Former U.S. Government Leaders, News | Tags: John Kerry
The U.S. Embassy would like to remind U.S. citizens of the updated Worldwide Caution issued by the Department of State on March 03, 2016. This caution replaces the Worldwide Caution dated July 29, 2015.
https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings/worldwide-caution.html With the recent terrorist attacks in Cote d’Ivoire, Mali, Burkina Faso and Brussels, the U.S. Embassy Cotonou would like to remind ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 25 March, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages
The U.S. Embassy would like to inform U.S. citizens that Beninese land borders are expected to be closed from Sunday, March 20 at 12:00 a.m. until Monday, March 21 at 6:00 a.m. due to presidential elections scheduled for March 20. The Government of Benin routinely closes land borders the day of national elections. Please travel ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 17 March, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages
U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Benin The U.S. Embassy wishes to inform U.S. citizens that results of the first round of elections are scheduled to be released this weekend. While there are no specific demonstrations planned, social disruptions or protests could occur with little or no warning throughout Benin. Please remember that even demonstrations intended to be ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 11 March, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages
The U.S. Embassy would like to inform U.S. citizens that Beninese land borders are expected to be closed from Sunday, March 6 at 12:00AM until Monday, March 7 at 06:00am due to the presidential elections taking place on March 6. The Government of Benin routinely closes land borders the day of national elections. Please travel ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 26 February, 2016 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages
The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens in Benin that, due to safety and security concerns, official travel by U.S. Embassy employees to Parc W, the regional national park on Benin’s northeastern border with Niger and Burkina Faso, will now be considered on a case by case basis. However, personaltravel for all U.S Embassy employees to Parc ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 8 December, 2015 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages
The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens in Benin that until further notice, U.S. Embassy personnel are prohibited from travelling to or staying at Parc W, the regional national park located on Benin’s border with Burkina Faso and Niger. U.S. citizens are encouraged to follow the same guidance. For further information: See the
State Department’s travel website for the
Worldwide Caution ,Travel ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 2 December, 2015 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages
The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens in Benin that until further notice, U.S. Embassy personnel are prohibited from travelling to or staying at Parc W, the regional national park located on Benin’s border with Burkina Faso and Niger. U.S. citizens are encouraged to follow the same guidance. For further information: See the
State Department’s travel website for the
Worldwide Caution , ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 2 December, 2015 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages
Ambassador Lucy Tamlyn provided keynote remark at the launch of the Junior AWEP program created through a PAS grant on November 24. Thirty Beninese teenage and early 20’s females from four different regions of Benin attended the launch which was followed by an interactive session led by successful Beninese businesswomen. The Junior AWEPs are female ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 24 November, 2015 | Topics: News
1. The State Department alerts U.S. citizens to possible risks of travel due to increased terrorist threats. Current information suggests that ISIL (aka Da’esh), al-Qa’ida, Boko Haram, and other terrorist groups continue to plan terrorist attacks in multiple regions. These attacks may employ a wide variety of tactics, using conventional and non-conventional weapons and targeting ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 23 November, 2015 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages
U.S. Ambassador Lucy Tamlyn presented her diplomatic credentials to Beninese President Boni Yayi on November 8 at the Presidential Palace. President Boni Yayi and the Ambassador Tamlyn engaged in far reaching discussion concerning the relationship between the two countries. During her remarks Ambassador Tamlyn focused on the need for the two countries to work together ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 8 November, 2015 | Topics: News
On Friday, September 25, 2015, the Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Mission, Todd Whatley, and Benin’s Minister of Interior, Placide Azandé, presided over the closing ceremony of a four-week border security training in Benin. The Marines and sailors with the Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa came to Benin for a month-long theater security ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 25 September, 2015 | Topics: News
1. The Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the risks of travel to Burkina Faso and recommends that U.S. citizens currently in Burkina Faso depart as soon as it is feasible to do so. 2. This Travel Warning is being issued to notify U.S. citizens that on September 21, the Department of State authorized ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 22 September, 2015 | Topics: Emergency Services
From August 10-15, Mission Cotonou collaborated with Africa Regional Services (ARS) for the second annual Camp Davis youth basketball camp. Former NBA player, Coach Tommy Davis, conducted the week-long camp, teaching basketball fundamentals to 50 young players (23 boys and 27 girls) between the ages of 12-18, as well as training 10 local coaches. The ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 15 August, 2015 | Topics: News
Following a successful joint entrepreneurship camp last year, U.S. Embassies in Lome and Cotonou teamed up to bring together 40 Beninese and 60 Togolese female entrepreneurs in Lomé for a week-long training program known as the Binational Economic Independence Course for Women (BEICW). Embassy Lome hosted the program which consisted of presentations from successful entrepreneurs ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 7 August, 2015 | Topics: News
More than 800 guests attended the first official event at the New Embassy Compound which celebrated the 239th anniversary of U.S. Independence with an environmental theme. During his remarks, Chargé d’Affaires Todd Whatley reminded the crowd that one of America’s Founding Fathers, Benjamin Franklin, was also one of the fathers of the environmental movement in ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 8 July, 2015 | Topics: News
The New Embassy Compound was officially inaugurated on July 8th. The Chargé d’Affaires, Todd Whatley, and the Under Secretary of State for Management, Patrick Kennedy, presided over the inauguration ceremony. The ribbon cutting took place in the presence of Benin’s Prime Minister, Lionel Zinsou, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Saliou Akadiri, and many other officials ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 8 July, 2015 | Topics: News
On May 30th, Embassy Cotonou’s Public Affairs Section organized for several Mission employees, including Post’s newly arrived Marines, to attend a little-league baseball practice and deliver an equipment donation to participants of the youth baseball club, Baseball in Benin. The club is sponsored by a U.S.-based NGO and seeks to introduce baseball, a largely unknown ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 30 May, 2015 | Topics: News
Mission Benin partnered with the Beninese Biking Federation, a local telecom company, and several environmental NGOs to organize its first ever “Bike for the Planet” event on May 15. Sixty participants competed, racing along a sandy beach road 25 miles from Ouidah to Cotonou. The initiative rallied young Beninese around a new sport while promoting ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 15 May, 2015 | Topics: News
The U.S. Embassy informs U.S. citizens that there is a demonstration occurring in the Zogbo neighborhood near the Cotonou Stadium consisting of about 500 demonstrators who have set tires on fire and made the area inaccessible. Police have blocked both directions on the Rue De Lomé leading North and South in the direction of the ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 4 May, 2015 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages
Though Cotonou’s International Airport remains open, Benin’s aviation authority informed the U.S. Embassy that Air France and Air Brussels have cancelled all flights to and from Cotonou until needed repairs are made to the tarmac. Regional airline and smaller aircraft flights may also be disrupted. Please note that the flight cancellations and possible disruptions are not ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 25 April, 2015 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages
The Beninese government has announced that Beninese land borders will be closed from tonight, Sunday, April 26, 2015 at 12:00AM until Monday, April 27, 2015 at 06:00AM due to the legislative elections taking place on Sunday, April 26, 2015. The U.S. Embassy recommends that U.S. citizens monitor local news stations for updates, plan travel accordingly, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 25 April, 2015 | Topics: Security & Emergency Messages
On April 10, Ambassador Michael Raynor presided over the official launch of Benin’s African Women Entrepreneurship Program(AWEP) chapter. AWEP was initially created as part of the International Visitor’s Leadership Program in 2010 by then Secretary of State Clinton as part of President Obama’s Entrepreneurship Summit in Washington, and it has since flourished to become a ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 10 April, 2015 | Topics: News
On March 17th Ambassador Raynor attended the launch of 2014 YALI Washington Mandela Fellow Nicase Degvano’s YALI Club in Bohicon. Nicaise was one of six young Beninese leaders who traveled to the United States last summer through President Obama’s Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI). Through this program, the fellows attended U.S. universities and received training ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 17 March, 2015 | Topics: News
In celebration of women’s history month, Ambassador Raynor traveled to northern Benin to support several women’s empowerment programs including the donation of Nouveaux Horizons books and One World Futbol soccer balls to a rare all-girls public high school in Parakou, located seven hours north of Cotonou. Ambassador Raynor’s remarks highlighted the tangible economic and community ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 15 March, 2015 | Topics: News
Ambassador Raynor traveled to northern Benin to inaugurate several projects funded through the Ambassador’s Special Self-Help Fund. Through this grass-roots program, the U.S. Embassy is able to respond quickly to the needs and requests of local communities for development projects that will have an immediate impact. Inaugurations included rice shellers in Malanville and Djidja, food ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 15 March, 2015 | Topics: News
The U.S. Mission organized a week-long leadership training for over 2,200 young Beninese from all 77 of Benin’s communes. This training aimed to provided participants with hands-on leadership and entrepreneurship skills, and was conducted in partnership with the local national university and the van Duyse Entrepreneurial and Leadership Institute. The training was a great success, ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 27 February, 2015 | Topics: News
In honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the American Cultural Center hosted the first edition of the Open Mic Night on January 21, 2015. Five competitors performed in each of four categories: song, dance, slam/poetry and speech. Over 200 people attended the event including students, artists, and embassy staff. In her opening remarks, Ms. ...
Read More» By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 21 January, 2015 | Topics: News
