Eleven Participants Selected for the 2023 Mandela Washington Fellowship

U.S. Embassy Cotonou is proud to announce that Eleven participants from Benin have been selected to participate in the 2023 Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders . Launched in 2014, the Mandela Washington Fellowship is the flagship program of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) and embodies the U.S. commitment to invest in the future of Africa.  YALI was created in 2010 and supports young Africans …

Read More»

United States’ Millennium Challenge Corporation, Government of Benin Celebrate Closure of Transformative Power Compact

WASHINGTON (June 22, 2023) – The U.S. Government’s Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and the Government of Benin celebrated the completion of the $422.6 million  Benin Power Compact , a five-year investment to advance energy accessibility and to strengthen Benin’s power sector. The investment is a $391 million grant from the American people and $31.6 million from the Beninese …

Read More»

U.S. Ambassador Shukan Presents Sikien Preservation Project to Minister Abimbola

U.S. Ambassador Brian Shukan met with Minister of Culture Jean-Michel Abimbola on May 3 to discuss a project to protect and conserve the cultural area of Koutammakou that sits along Benin’s northern border with Togo. The U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) awarded a 120 million CFA grant to U.S. based organization World Monuments …

Read More»

U.S. Special Forces and Beninese Armed Forces Conduct Fourth Joint Military Exercise

Special Operations Command Africa Forces partnered with the Beninese Army during a Joint Combined Exchange Training (JCET) that concluded April 7, 2023, in Ouassa, Benin, the fourth between the U.S. and Benin. These exercises reflect the U.S. and Benin’s long-standing security partnership, and how the two countries work closely to combat the extremist threat. During the JCET, …

Read More»

U.S. Federal Women’s Program Reaches Out to Students of CEG Houeyiho

A U.S. Embassy delegation led by members of the U.S. Federal Women’s Program visited Collège d’Enseignement Général Houeyiho in Cotonou on March 23, 2023 to promote gender equity, share career advice with over 300 students, and donate books to the school’s library.  The U.S. Federal Women’s Program is an initiative of the U.S. Government for …

Read More»

U.S. Embassy Cotonou Hosts Panel Discussion on DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality

U.S. Embassy Cotonou hosted Minister of Digitalization Aurélie Adam Soulé Zoumarou to discuss this year’s International Women’s Day theme of “DigitALL: Innovation and Technology for Gender Equality.” In front of an audience of tech students from Seme City and younger Beninese leaders, Minister Adam Soulé Zoumarou shared her insights on the role of technology in …

Read More»

Peace Corps Director Carol Spahn Exchanges with President Talon on the Importance of Teaching English and Creating Economic Opportunities

(Cotonou | March 21, 2023) – As part of Peace Corps Director Carol Spahn’s visit to Benin to celebrate the 55th anniversary of Peace Corps’ partnership in the country, she met with the President of the Republic of Benin Patrice Talon, Benin’s Minister of Justice and Legislation Sévérin Quenum, and United States’ Ambassador to the …

Read More»

U.S. Embassy Cotonou Hosts Vice President Talata to Discuss Gender Equity and Women’s Advancement

Cotonou, March 15, 2023 – In honor of International Women’s Day, U.S. Embassy Cotonou (via the Federal Women’s Program) hosted a conference of distinguished women leaders to promote the advancement of women in Benin and worldwide. The conference drew over 200 participants from government agencies, the diplomatic corps, private sector, civil society and a local …

Read More»

Relaunch of American Business Club Activities: Ambassador Brian Shukan Commends Benin Government’s Efforts to Improve the Business Climate

Cotonou – March 14, 2023- The American Business Club resumed operations in Cotonou after a period of suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The club provides a platform for American companies to connect with each other and with the business community in Benin. In his remarks, U.S. Ambassador to Benin Brian Shukan addressed three key …

Read More»

Undersecretary for Arms Control Discusses U.S.-Beninese Security & Economic Cooperation

Cotonou, March 10, 2023 – On a two-day visit to Benin, Undersecretary for Arms Control and International Security Bonnie Jenkins met with senior Beninese officials to discuss expanding and strengthening U.S.-Beninese security cooperation.  During the visit, the Undersecretary met with the Ministers of Planning & Governmental Coordination, Justice, Interior and Defense to discuss how the …

Read More»

Ambassador Shukan Visits U.S.-Funded Cooperation Projects in Alibori Department and Applauds Community Initiatives

From February 22-23, 2023, U.S. Ambassador to Benin Brian Shukan visited the city of Kandi in the department of Alibori to meet with the community and local authorities and see firsthand U.S. funded projects that improve security, education, and economic opportunity.    Meeting with members of Kandi’s City Council, Ambassador Shukan discussed ongoing U.S.-funded projects …

Read More»

North Dakota National Guard Conducts Exercises with Beninese Armed Forces on Improvised Explosive Device Management

From February 13-17, 2023, North Dakota National Guard instructors conducted joint military exercises with their Beninese Armed Forces (FAB) counterparts on tactics to counter improvised explosive devices (IEDs) at the 1st Battalion Parachute Commandos Camp in Ouassa, central Benin. Staff Sergeant Dale Burdette and Staff Sergeant Alex Radi (both from the 817th Engineer Company based …

Read More»

Statement by the Ambassadors of Canada, the USA, Japan, Switzerland, and the European Union on behalf of member states represented in Benin

We welcome the peaceful, secure, and inclusive conduct of legislative elections throughout the country on January 8. The addition of the opposition and a significant number of women parliamentarians in the National Assembly strengthens Beninese democracy. We also welcome the use of the legal process to resolve any remaining disputes in accordance with Beninese law. …

Read More»

U.S. Initiates Night Walk to Support Fight Against Gender-Based Violence

Members of the Diplomatic Corps, civil society organizations, and U.S. exchange program alumni, participated in a night walk on December 15, 2022 in Cotonou in support of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The walk, organized by U.S. Embassy Cotonou, is part of a global effort to help women and girls reclaim …

Read More»

The Adjutant General of the North Dakota State National Guard, Major General Alan S. Dohrmann,  visited Benin from December 13 to 15, 2022

The purpose of the visit was to assess the progress of the State Partnership Program (SPP), through which the North Dakota National Guard and Beninese security forces train on military-police operations and disaster management.  The North Dakota National Guard also works closely with the Beninese National Civil Defense Agency and the National Fire Department to help prevent humanitarian crises and promote democratic governance and …

Read More»

Africa Business Forum: U.S., Benin, Niger sign $504 million Regional Investment

WASHINGTON (Dec. 14, 2022) — A day after announcing four new African country partnerships, the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) took center stage at today’s U.S.-Africa Business Forum as the United States, Benin, and Niger governments signed the first-ever MCC regional program — the  $504 million Benin-Niger Regional Transport Compact .   Benin’s President Patrice Talon, Niger’s President Mohamed Bazoum, and MCC’s Chief …

Read More»

USAID Engagement and Partners Mobilization for the Fight against HIV/AIDS in Benin 

December, 2022 Cotonou, Benin – This year’s theme for the World AIDS Day is “Putting Ourselves to the Test: Achieving Equity to End HIV.” It encourages people to unite globally to eliminate the disparities and inequities that create barriers to HIV testing, prevention, and access to HIV care. This theme highlights the efforts the US …

Read More»

MCC Board Approves Agency’s First Regional Grant Program

WASHINGTON (September 28, 2022) – The Millennium Challenge Corporation’s (MCC) Board of Directors held its quarterly meeting yesterday and unanimously voted to approve the $504 million Benin-Niger Regional Transport Compact — MCC’s first-ever regional grant program. “Yesterday’s board approval of the Benin-Niger regional compact is a historic moment for MCC; it redefines how the agency …

Read More»

“The Benin Human Rights Commission: An Extraordinary Ally for the Beninese People Justice” Jennifer Brunner, Ohio Supreme Court

Justice Jennifer Brunner currently serves as a justice on the Supreme Court of Ohio and is the former Ohio Secretary of State. Since 2012, Justice Brunner has been engaged on numerous United States Agency for International Development (USAID) -funded projects, providing short term technical assistance as well as participating in election observation missions, in Serbia, …

Read More»

The U.S. Marks 246th Anniversary of Independence and Decades of Cooperation with Benin

COTONOU, July 6, 2022 – U.S. Embassy Cotonou marked the 246th anniversary of the Independence of the United States at a ceremony attended by members of the Government of Benin, the Diplomatic Corps, and embassy partners.  Organized after a two-year suspension due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Independence Day celebration focused on the 60 years …

Read More»

 U.S. Embassy Builds Journalists’ Skills in Writing and Reporting  

COTONOU- June 17, 2022 – Ambassador Brian Shukan closed a five-day training on journalism writing skills at U.S. Embassy Cotonou. Working with American journalist Linda Hervieux, fifteen Beninese journalists representing print, radio, TV and online outlets participated in a training on article structure, the art of interviewing, building trust with sources, and avoiding disinformation. The …

Read More»

U.S., Benin, Niger Make Progress on Strengthening Cross-Border Transportation

COTONOU, Benin (May 13, 2022) – The U.S. government’s Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) and representatives from the Governments of Benin and Niger met May 12-13 to advance a proposed regional development grant designed to reduce the cost of transportation along the road corridor between the port of Cotonou and the capital city of Niamey.  MCC’s …

Read More»

U.S. Ambassador Shukan Presents Credential Letter to President of the Republic of Benin Patrice Talon

The new U.S. Ambassador to Benin, Brian Shukan, presented his credential letter to the President of the Republic of Benin Patrice Talon on May 5 at the Presidency in Cotonou. In his meeting with President Talon, Ambassador Shukan outlined his priorities for continuing to work closely with Benin to help all Beninese reach their full …

Read More»

Statement by President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden on the Occasion of Eid al-Fitr

As Muslims in the United States and around the world conclude the month of Ramadan and celebrate Eid al-Fitr, Jill and I extend our warmest wishes to all who are celebrating this joyous occasion. Eid marks the completion of a holy month dedicated to devotion and reflection, when families and communities come together to celebrate …

Read More»

 MLK Slam Contest: U.S. Mission Cotonou Promotes English Learning through Poetry 

On April 6, 2022, U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission Karen Gustafson de Andrade, presented prizes to the five winners of the 6th Annual Martin Luther King Jr’s (MLK) English poetry competition at U.S. Embassy Cotonou. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, Public Diplomacy held the Slam Contest online. The purpose of this contest is to encourage students to …

Read More»

The Spirit of Partnership: Implementing the U.S. Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE APRIL 1, 2022   The United States is committed to strengthening global resiliency and democratic renewal, and promoting peaceful, self-reliant nations that become strong economic and security partners capable of addressing shared challenges.  To that end, the U.S. Government is moving forward in the spirit of partnership …

Read More»

The United States Support Women Entrepreneurship through the 2021 AWE GROW-UP Week

U.S. Embassy Chargée d’Affaires, a.i. Stephanie Arnold officially launched the Grand Fair of the 2021 Academy of Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) at conference room Le Marin in Cotonou on March 10, 2022. Organized by alumni of the African Women Entrepreneurship Program (AWEP-Benin), this year’s fair was one of the highlights of the AWE Grow-Up Week, launched …

Read More»

Vice President Kamala Harris Announces Additional U.S. Funding to Respond to Humanitarian Needs in Ukraine and Eastern Europe

During her trip to Warsaw, Poland, today, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris announced nearly $53 million in new humanitarian assistance from the United States government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), to support innocent civilians affected by Russia’s unjustified invasion of Ukraine. This additional assistance includes support to the UN World Food Program (WFP) to provide lifesaving …

Read More»

Statement by President Biden on Russia’s Unprovoked and Unjustified Attack on Ukraine

The prayers of the entire world are with the people of Ukraine tonight as they suffer an unprovoked and unjustified attack by Russian military forces. President Putin has chosen a premeditated war that will bring a catastrophic loss of life and human suffering. Russia alone is responsible for the death and destruction this attack will …

Read More»

U.S. Food Blogger Explores Links between American and Benin’s Cuisines

Embassy Cotonou was pleased to host American chef and entrepreneur Vallery Lomas from January 31 to February 4, 2022. During her visit, Ms. Lomas explored Beninese and American culinary links, and especially African influences on dishes from Ms. Lomas’s home state of Louisiana. She also shared lessons learned from her career journey and other entrepreneurial …

Read More»

The United States Supports Training Workshop for Regional Human Rights Officers

COTONOU, Benin, 24 January 2022 – The United States Government is assisting the Benin Human Rights Commission (BHRC) to train human rights officers, who will serve in new BHRC resource centers to support citizens to engage with the Commission outside of Cotonou, over the course of a three-day workshop in Lokossa.  Through the U.S. Agency …

Read More»

The United States Donates 332,280 Doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine to Benin

The U.S. Embassy in Cotonou, Benin announces the donation of 332,280 doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine by the United States Government as part of the United States’ global efforts to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.  The U.S. government coordinated closely with the African Union, Africa CDC, and COVAX on the country allocations.  COVAX supported delivery …

Read More»

AFRICOM Commander visits Togo and Benin

U.S. Army Gen. Stephen Townsend, commander, U.S. Africa Command, continued a multi-day visit to West Africa, with stops in Togo and Benin, September 22-23. Townsend expressed the command’s readiness to help both partner nations increase their ability to secure their northern border areas from the terrorist threat and improve security cooperation across the region. In …

Read More»

Commemorating the International Day of Democracy 

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE SEPTEMBER 14, 2021 On this International Day of Democracy, we underscore our support for democracy as we strive toward a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable world. The United States places democracy and human rights at the center of our foreign policy; they are essential elements in achieving and …

Read More»

20th Anniversary of the September 11, 2001 Attacks

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE SEPTEMBER 11, 2021 On the 20th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks, we honor the nearly 3,000 men, women, and children we lost in New York City, Arlington, and Shanksville on that horrific day. Every one of those individuals was someone’s child, someone’s friend. And the …

Read More»

On the Military Seizure of Power in Guinea

PRESS STATEMENT NED PRICE, DEPARTMENT SPOKESPERSON SEPTEMBER 5, 2021 Violence and any extra-constitutional measures will only erode Guinea’s prospects for peace, stability, and prosperity. These actions could limit the ability of the United States and Guinea’s other international partners to support the country as it navigates a path toward national unity and a brighter future …

Read More»

USTDA Supports Clean Energy Access and Utility Digitalization in Benin

Arlington, VA – Today, the U.S. Trade and Development Agency announced grant funding for technical assistance to help Beninese company Sherlock Grids SAS expand and improve clean energy access to rural communities across the country. “This project embodies USTDA’s commitment to deploy innovative solutions that connect more of Africa’s citizens to clean, reliable power,” said …

Read More»

More Than 100m U.S. COVID-⁠19 Vaccine Doses Donated and Shipped Abroad

FACT SHEET: President Biden Announces Major Milestone in Administration’s Global Vaccination Efforts: More Than 100 Million U.S. COVID-19 Vaccine Doses Donated and Shipped Abroad Building off of last week’s announcement of  additional actions  that we are taking to stop the spread of the Delta variant and get more people vaccinated in the United States, President Biden will give …

Read More»

Benin National Day

PRESS STATEMENT ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE AUGUST 1, 2021 Share On behalf of the United States and the American people, I send best wishes and congratulations to the government and people of Benin as you celebrate 61 years of independence. The pandemic has affected us all, and even as we continue the fight …

Read More»

Digital Press Briefing on U.S.-Africa Trade and Investment through Prosper Africa

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 the Special Assistant …

Read More»

The United States Donates 302,400 Doses of Johnson & Johnson to Benin

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»

Remarks on the Urgency of Global Climate Action

JOHN KERRY, SPECIAL PRESIDENTIAL ENVOY FOR CLIMATE ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS, KEW, LONDON JULY 20, 2021 Thank you Robin for a remarkably generous introduction. Ladies and gentlemen I accept the nomination. [laughter] I really appreciate Robin being here and I’m a great admirer of the incredible work of Chatham House, so thank you very, very much for being part of this. Dame Amelia Fawcett – …

Read More»

Express Yourself! – Press Release

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»

Secretary Antony J. Blinken at the 2021 Trafficking in Persons Report Launch Ceremony

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»

In Commemoration of Juneteenth

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»

10th Anniversary of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights

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»

On Pride Month

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»

U.S. Ambassador Surveys U.S. Support for Culture, Education and Health in Borgou

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»

The United States Helps Protect Vulnerable People from COVID-19 in Benin

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»

On the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia

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»

World Press Freedom Day

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»

World Malaria Day: The United States has invested $223 million to fight malaria in Benin

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»

Arrests of Opposition Figures in Benin

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»

Earth Day 2021

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»

U.S. Embassy Statement on Benin’s Presidential Election

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»

Celebration of Ramadan

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»

Statement from the Embassies of Germany, the United States, France, the Netherlands and the European Union delegation

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»

Benin Human Rights Commission Prepares for Success with United States Support

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»

Celebrating International Women’s Day

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»

Fifth Annual English Slam Poetry Competition Honors Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 

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»

A Proclamation on Women’s History Month, 2021

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»

60th Anniversary of the Peace Corps 

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»

10 Million to Benefit from U.S.-Financed Increase in Benin’s Electricity Distribution Capacity

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»

U.S. Embassy Statement on Benin’s Presidential Elections

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»

Proclamation on National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, 2021

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»

International Human Rights Day

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»

The United States Promotes Youth Engagement with Human Rights in Benin

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»

Observance of International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

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»

U.S. Department of Defense Offers New Classrooms to Colli Students

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»

International Religious Freedom Day

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»

Upcoming Elections in Africa

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»

U.S. Embassy and Ministry of Interior Sign Letter of Agreement to Establish Special Program for Embassy Augmentation and Response (SPEAR) Team

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»

International Day of Democracy

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»

U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) Contributes Medical Supplies to Benin to Help Fight COVID-19

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»

U.S. Embassy Marks 243rd Anniversary of Independence Day under Space Exploration Theme

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»

U.S. Embassy Inaugurates New Classrooms and Latrines in Kpakpa-Agbagoulé

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»

Rhyme Like a Beninese Girl

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»

U.S. Embassy Cotonou Builds Capacities of Magistrates and Investigators from the Sub-region on Border and Transnational Crime

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»

Statement from the U.S. Embassy in Cotonou regarding Benin’s 2019 Legislative Elections April 28

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»

U.S. Embassy Cotonou Builds Capacities of 30 Journalists in Election Coverage

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»

The United States Supports Benin’s Peaceful Use of Nuclear Technology

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»

MCC Board Selects Benin as Eligible to Develop a Concurrent Regional Compact

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»

Ambassador Tamlyn Farewell message

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»

35 Girls Introduced to Sports Values through Basketball Camp

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»

2018 Annual Trafficking in Persons Report : Benin removed from watch list

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»

Benin’s Young Leaders Commemorate Mandela Day through a Clean-Up Campaign

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»

UNICEF and USAID Donate Health Equipment to Reduce Infant and Child Mortality

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»

The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Agreement Enters Into Force

$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»

Women in Law: A Balance between Career and Private Life

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»
Show More ∨