Benin

In a significant stride toward reconciliation and cultural restitution, the Netherlands has returned 119 ancient sculptures that were taken from the former Kingdom of Benin in southern Nigeria over a century ago. These remarkable artifacts, widely referred to as the Benin Bronzes, were the spoils of conflict during a turbulent chapter in history; they were seized in 1897 when British forces invaded and subsequently exiled the kingdom's ruler. This return marks not just a physical relocation of art but a profound…

His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the Amir of Qatar, warmly welcomed the President of the Republic of Benin, Patrice Talon, to the Amiri Diwan in Doha. This meeting was not just a formality; it signified a desire to cultivate the bond between their nations—a bond that holds the potential for growth, understanding, and collaboration. At the heart of their discussions was a focus on enhancing bilateral ties across a spectrum of vital sectors. This included key areas such as aviation, infrastructure, education,…

In a poignant moment of cultural restoration, Finland has returned a ceremonial stool known as the kataklè to Benin. This act of restitution follows over 130 years since the piece was taken by French troops and subsequently transferred to the National Museum of Finland. The three-legged royal chair, emblematic of the former Kingdom of Dahomey, resurfaced after a diligent investigation into its whereabouts. The stool, an integral part of Dahomey’s royal heritage, had been in storage in Finland since 1939, following an…

A recent investigation conducted by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) sheds light on a complex web of challenges facing the Sahel region. The study indicates that, while a direct link between climate change and terrorism may not be readily apparent, the effects of climate change on agricultural production and natural resource distribution can set the stage for local conflicts. These disruptions, stemming from shifting weather patterns, often lead communities to compete fiercely for essential resources. Consider, for…

The Netherlands has recently made a significant commitment by agreeing to repatriate a collection of culturally important artifacts to Nigeria. In a landmark decision, the Dutch government pledged to return 113 Benin bronzes, emblematic remnants of a rich African heritage, that were taken during colonial times. This momentous agreement emerged through a formal signing between the Dutch Minister for Education, Eppo Bruins, and representatives from Nigeria's National Commission for Museums and Monuments. The artifacts,…

Sudan’s football warriors have navigated the turbulent seas of civil conflict to secure their spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Despite the chaotic backdrop, they triumphed in a fiercely competitive final round of qualifiers, joining Benin in the journey to next year's illustrious tournament. Due to the unrest that began in April of the preceding year, Sudan’s domestic league has been on pause, forcing the national team to play their home games on neutral grounds, far from the cheering home crowd. With Libya and South…

After 130 years of absence, 26 objects stolen in Benin are finally exhibited at home after being returned by France. The pieces were looted by French soldiers from the Kingdom of Dahomey in 1892 and now take pride of place in the presidential palace. Our team…

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His voice was counted and carried to Benin. Rosine Soglo, whose real name is Rose-Marie Honorine Vieyra, politician and wife of former President Nicéphore Soglo, died on Sunday 25 July in Cotonou, aged 87. President Patrice Talon, who had strained relations with the family, greets "a brave and exceptional woman" and government…

To Unde the African press on Friday morning, Benin, where opponent Joël Aïvo was before Criet on Thursday, that is, the court for repression of economic crimes and terrorism, to begin his trial. This academic, who was a candidate for the Front for the Restoration of Democracy during the presidential election in April last year, must respond to criminal allegations of "money laundering and attacks on state security". Constitutionalist Joël Aïvo had since been in custody for the trial. During the hearing, the special…