Cotonou

Cotonou is the largest city and economic centre of Benin. Its official population count was 761,137 inhabitants in 2006; however, some estimates indicate its population to be as high as 1.2 million. The population in 1960 was only 70,000. The urban area continues to expand, primarily on the eastern side of the lagoon, while the western side of the city remains largely underdeveloped.

Geography

Cotonou is located on the coastal strip between Lake Nokoué and the Atlantic Ocean. The city is cut in two by a canal, the lagoon of Cotonou, dug by the French in 1855. Three bridges are in this area. The Oueme River flows into the Atlantic Ocean at Cotonou.

Economy

Cotonou has a vibrant economy, with the major industries being textiles, brewing, cement and petroleum refining. The city is also a major port, and home to an airport and a railway that links to Parakou. Other features of the city include Cotonou Friendship Stadium, Cotonou Cathedral, Cotonou Central Mosque, the Ancien Pont Bridge and the 20-hectare Dantokpa Market, which has a commercial turnover of over one billion CFA Francs a day.

Culture

Cotonou is the cultural hub of Benin, and has a vibrant music scene which has birthed a new style of music known as Zouk, and an internationally recognized Jazz festival. It also has a range of nightclubs, as well as a museum, and several cinemas and arts venues.

Health

Cotonou has several hospitals and healthcare facilities, including the National University Hospital Hubert Koutoukou Maga.

Education

The city is home to the University of Abomey-Calavi, the second largest university in Africa.

Transport

Cotonou is well connected by road, air and sea. It has an international airport, Cadjehoun Airport, and is connected to the rest of Benin by the Benin-Niger Railway.

See also

• List of cities in Benin
• Economy of Benin
• Culture of Benin

References

Cotonou Resources
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