Benin used to be one of the biggest areas for slave trade in West Africa. After gaining independence from France in 1960, Benin has seen seven take-overs of power and numerous different governments.

After 18 years under Marxist regime, democratic elections were held in 1991 and the nation experienced stability under a born-again Christian president.

Spring 2006 saw the election of another evangelical Christian leader, Yayi Boni. Boni intends to further 'clean up' any remaining corruption and target the economy in an attempt to reduce poverty.

44% of the country's population is under 14 years of age!

Thank God that the presidency stayed in Christian hands in the 2006 election. The former Muslim, Yayi Boni, has long been an evangelical Christian and seeks to use his expertise in economics to further help his country out of poverty. Pray that President Boni would have integrity and wisdom in his leadership and that his plans for the cotton industry would produce prosperity.

Although the church is growing all over Benin and now 30% of the population are profess Christianity.

More people follow traditional ethnic religions in Benin than in any other African nation. Voodoo has its origins in the ethnic religion of the Fon peoples and many are tied up in fear and superstition. Pray that the freedom of knowing Jesus would break into people’s lives.

A million people live in Benin’s cities and Christians have grown from a few hundred to over 30% of the population. There is still a need for Christians to reach out to the Muslim urban population (20%)

Loads of young people have become Christians and there are student groups meeting around the country. Pray that these young people would continue to grow in their passion for God.