West Africa.

GMT + 1.

112,622 sq km (43,484 sq miles).

7.1 million (UN, 2005).

63.4 per sq km.

Porto Novo (administrative). Population: 200,000 (1994). (Cotonou is the economic capital with an estimated population of 750,000 in 1994.)

Benin is situated in West Africa and is bordered to the east by Nigeria, to the north by Niger and Burkina Faso, and to the west by Togo. Benin stretches 700km (435 miles) from the Bight of Benin to the Niger River. The coastal strip is sandy with coconut palms. Beyond the lagoons of Porto Novo, Nokoue, Ouidah and Grand Popo is a plateau rising gradually to the heights of the Atakora Mountains. From the highlands run two tributaries of the Niger, while southwards the Ouémé flows down to Nokoue lagoon. Mono River flows into the sea at Grand Popo and forms a frontier with Togo.

Under the 1990 constitution, legislative power is in the hands of the 64-member Assemblée Nationale (National Assembly), which is directly elected for a four-year term. The president, who wields executive power assisted by an appointed Cabinet of Ministers, is also directly elected for a five-year term.

Republic. Gained independence from France in 1960. Head of State and Government: President Yayi Boni since 2006. Recent history: Political newcomer Yayi Boni won the second round of Presidential elections in March 2006, gaining more than 74 per cent of the vote. His rival was the former parliamentary speaker, Adrien Houngbedji. Mathieu Kérékou, his predecessor, was barred by the constitution from running for a third term as he was over the age limit of 70. Benin's President heads the Government, the state and the military and appoints members of the Cabinet.

The official language is French. However, many ethnic groups have their own languages: Bariba and Fulani are spoken in the north, Fon and Yoruba in the south. Some English is also spoken.

35 per cent animist/traditional, 35 per cent Christian (mainly Roman Catholic) and the majority of the rest are Muslim.

Normal courtesies are appreciated; it is customary to shake hands on arrival and departure. However, religious beliefs play a large part in society and these should be respected. Voodoo is perhaps the most striking and best-known practice, and has acquired considerable social and political power. Only priests can communicate with voodoos and spirits of the dead. If travelling, it is advisable to clear itineraries with district or provincial authorities. Casual wear is acceptable in most places.

220 volts AC, 50Hz.