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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 6 July, 2023 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 22 June, 2023 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 3 May, 2023 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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, …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 20 April, 2023 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 14 April, 2023 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 14 April, 2023 | Topics: News, Press Releases
(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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 21 March, 2023 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 15 March, 2023 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 14 March, 2023 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 10 March, 2023 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 3 March, 2023 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 1 March, 2023 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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. …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 24 January, 2023 | Topics: Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 26 December, 2022 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 23 December, 2022 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 14 December, 2022 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 2 December, 2022 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Program, USAID
A successful partnership between the Government of Benin, PMI, and the Global Fund protects children during the rainy season when they are most at risk. “Malaria is a burden in every aspect of our lives,” says Mariam Bagnan Zime, who lives in Alibori, Benin, with her four children. “When our child is sick, we can’t …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 22 October, 2022 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 28 September, 2022 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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, …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 29 August, 2022 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 19 July, 2022 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 18 June, 2022 | Topics: Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 13 May, 2022 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 5 May, 2022 | Topics: News, Press Releases
We live in perilous times for press freedom. At least eleven journalists have been killed in Ukraine in recent weeks. Another 11 have been wounded by gunfire. Others have been kidnapped and assaulted, and at least one remains missing. In Russia, the Kremlin has tightened its vice-grip on civil society, including through passage of a …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 3 May, 2022 | Topics: Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 1 May, 2022 | Topics: Press Releases
U.S. Ambassador to Benin Brian Shukan wished a blessed Ramadan to the Muslim community by joining U.S. Embassy staff in donating food items to mosques in Cotonou and Porto-Novo. On April 25, the U.S. Embassy delegation visited Imam Youssouf Ali from the La Ilaha Illa Alla Mosque in Agla and Imam Issiack Alao Ligali from …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 1 May, 2022 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 13 April, 2022 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 4 April, 2022 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 31 March, 2022 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 14 March, 2022 | Topics: Press Releases
The Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) of U.S. Embassy Cotonou, Karen Gustafson de Andrade, toured the departments of Borgou and Alibori from February 14 to 17, 2022. This tour was an opportunity for Ms. Gustafson de Andrade to meet the Embassy’s partner organizations in the north and to inquire about the security situation. The tour …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 14 March, 2022 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 24 February, 2022 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 15 February, 2022 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 24 January, 2022 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Remarks By President Biden At The Summit For Democracy Opening Session THE PRESIDENT: Well, hello everyone, and welcome to the first Summit for Democracy. This gathering has been on my mind for a long time for a simple reason: In the face of sustained and alarming challenges to democracy, universal human rights, and — all …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 10 December, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 1 October, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 23 September, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 15 September, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 12 September, 2021 | Topics: Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 5 September, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
ANTONY J. BLINKEN, SECRETARY OF STATE AUGUST 31, 2021 The United States joins others around the world in commemorating the first International Day for People of African Descent. This day was created to promote the extraordinary contributions of Africans and members of the African diaspora around the world and is an opportunity to focus on …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 31 August, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 31 August, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 3 August, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 1 August, 2021 | 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 the Special Assistant …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 28 July, 2021 | Topics: Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 26 July, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 – …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 20 July, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
Jill and I send our warmest greetings to those celebrating Eid al-Adha around the world. The Eid traditions and Hajj rituals of providing for those less fortunate in commemoration of Abraham and his son’s devotion to God carry a special meaning this year as we continue to navigate the challenges of COVID-19 and work to respond …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 19 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 …
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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 …
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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, …
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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 …
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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 …
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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, …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 7 June, 2021 | Topics: Press Releases
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 …
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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, …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 2 June, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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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 …
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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, …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 17 May, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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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 …
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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. …
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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, …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 9 April, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 8 March, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 22 February, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 11 February, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 5 February, 2021 | Topics: Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 4 January, 2021 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 11 December, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 7 December, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Human Rights, Program
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, …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 25 November, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Gender
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 5 November, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 28 October, 2020 | Topics: Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 21 October, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 1 October, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 15 September, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 16 June, 2020 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Ambassador Mahoney, COVID-19
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 …
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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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 27 June, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Inauguration, Program
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 …
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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. …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 5 June, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Program
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 29 April, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: Democracy, Election, Statement
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 6 March, 2019 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: media, press
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 …
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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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 18 December, 2018 | Topics: Press Releases | Tags: Program
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 …
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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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 25 September, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 6 September, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases | Tags: GirlsEmpowerment, SportsDiplomacy
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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 29 June, 2018 | Topics: News, Press Releases, Reports
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 …
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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 …
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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 …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 11 July, 2017 | Topics: News, Press Releases
$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 …
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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: …
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By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 6 March, 2017 | Topics: Ambassador, News, Press Releases
By U.S. Embassy Cotonou | 18 August, 2016 | Topics: Exclude All, Press Releases