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In The News
Benin
is a developing country with poor economy. Incidence
of AIDS has affected lower life expectancy – 49 years, high infant
mortality at 88.52 death for every 1000 live births;
and death rates and lower
population and growth rates. Benin has an
adult literacy rate of only 37.5% as per
Year 2000 estimates. The economic growth is nullified by the steady
increase in population. 37% of a total
population of 6.8 million is estimated to be below poverty line.
Benin needs more foreign
investments to improve their economy. The economy of Benin encourages free trade.
The cement and oil refining industries make up the only heavy industry
of Benin. Being an agricultural
economy, they need more investments in food processing and agriculture
and power generation. They ear mark
Tourism sector as well, for development.
International
Disputes
Benin
has disputes, mainly on undecided boundaries, with all its neighbors.
1.
Dispute with Niger over an issue
of 14 islands in River Niger. The dispute
is currently with International Court of
Justice.
Boundary Demarcation issue with Nigeria, Togo and Burkina
Faso. |
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Capital: Cotonou
Area: km²
Population:
Currency: 1 US$ = 600 CFA
GDP: 132/1 668$
HDI :
146/368
Languages: French, Fon, Yoruba, Mina, Somka, Dendi, Bariba, Goun,
Adja, Pila-pila
Ethnic groups: fon & Adja (south), Bariba & Somba (north),
Yoruba (southeast)
Religions: Animist 65%, Christian 20%, Muslim 15%
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