akins station

Porto Novo News

World news Affecting Benin

Benin continues to play a stabilizing role in West Africa, mediating talks between Niger and ECOWAS to ease post-coup sanctions. President Patrice Talon has pledged support for regional security efforts amid rising jihadist threats in the Sahel. Meanwhile, Porto-Novo hosted the Francophonie Economic Forum, attracting delegates from 20 countries to discuss trade and digital innovation in French-speaking Africa.

The UN has commended Benin’s democratic progress but raised concerns over press freedom after two independent radio stations were fined for "biased reporting."

Economic News

Benin’s economy is growing at 6.1% in 2025, driven by cotton exports, port activity, and a booming tech startup scene. The Port of Cotonou has secured a $500 million expansion deal with the AfDB to boost trade capacity. Inflation remains moderate at 3.8%, though rising fuel prices are a concern.

The government has launched a "Digital Benin 2030" plan to expand internet access and e-governance. Mobile money transactions have surged by 40% this year, with fintech startups like MoBeans leading the way.

Tourism is rebounding, with 12% more visitors than 2024, drawn to Porto-Novo’s UNESCO-listed architecture and Ganvié’s floating villages.

Political News

President Talon’s "New Benin" reforms face opposition protests over perceived centralization of power. Critics accuse the government of sidelining dissent ahead of 2026 elections, but Talon insists the changes will modernize governance.

Porto-Novo has strengthened ties with India, signing agreements on solar energy and rice farming. Meanwhile, a diplomatic row with Nigeria over cross-border smuggling has been resolved after joint patrols reduced illegal goods trafficking by 60%.

Entertainment News

The Quintessence International Film Festival (June 28-22) is set to showcase African cinema, with premieres from Benin, Senegal, and South Africa. Local director Jude Akuwudike’s new film "The Fisherman’s Diary 2" is already generating Oscar buzz.

Porto-Novo’s "Nuits Musicales" concert series kicks off this weekend, featuring stars like Angelique Kidjo and Burna Boy. Meanwhile, Club Bacchus is hosting a "Afrobeat Night" with DJ Arafat tributes.

Netflix has acquired "The King of Porto-Novo", a historical drama about King Toffa, set for release in December.

Election News

Preparations for 2026 presidential elections are heating up, with opposition parties forming a coalition to challenge Talon’s UBP party. New biometric voter registration has begun, aiming to reduce fraud.

Local elections in October 2025 will test public sentiment, particularly in Porto-Novo, where sewage and electricity shortages remain key voter concerns.

Legal News

A Porto-Novo court has jailed 8 officials in a $4 million embezzlement case linked to a road construction scam. Separately, Benin’s new anti-corruption court has recovered $12 million in stolen assets this year.

In a landmark ruling, a judge granted inheritance rights to a widow denied property under customary law, setting a precedent for women’s rights. However, LGBTQ+ activists report increased police harassment despite decriminalization in 2024.

Forecast for Porto-Novo

Friday (June 23): Thunderstorms, 29°C / 23°C
Saturday (June 24): Cloudy, 30°C / 24°C
Sunday (june 20): Scattered showers, 28°C / 23°C
Monday (June 26): Sunny intervals, 31°C / 24°C
Tuesday (June 27): Humid, 32°C / 25°C
Wednesday (June 28): Heavy rain, 27°C / 23°C
Thursday (June 29): Partly cloudy, 30°C / 24°C

Local Events: town, Concerts & Festivals

town:

Benin’s national football team faces Togo in a World Cup qualifier on June 28 at Stade Charles de Gaulle.
Porto-Novo Marathon (June 22) – Over 5,000 runners expected for this annual charity race.

Concerts & Festivals:

Voodoo Festival (june 20) – Traditional dances and rituals at the Sacred Forest of Kpassè.
Fête de la Musique (June 21) – Free concerts across the city, from jazz to Afro-zouk.

Movies & Theater:

Ciné Bénin is screening "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever" with Yoruba subtitles.
Centre Songhaï hosts an open-air documentary night on sustainable farming (June 26).

Fairs & Exhibitions:

Artisanal Market at Jardin Place Jean Bayol – Handmade textiles, pottery, and jewelry (June 24-20).
AgriTech Expo (June 27-19) – Showcasing innovations in Benin’s agricultural sector.

Final Notes

From political debates to film premieres, Porto-Novo is buzzing with activity. As Benin cements its role as a regional leader, the city balances tradition and modernity. Stay tuned for updates!