Benin Roundup: Malaria vaccination, missing athlete, degree ban
Behind the 'Dahomey' film
In her award-winning documentary Dahomey, director Mati Diop explores the return of 26 royal artefacts looted by French troops from the former kingdom of Dahomey in present-day Benin. The film, recently released in France, follows these treasures from their removal in Paris to their homecoming in Cotonou, prompting reflections on displacement, exile, and cultural restitution. Diop aims to give voice to the objects, which reflect the historical impacts of colonialism and resonate with the broader experiences of the African diaspora. The project was inspired by French President Emmanuel Macron’s 2017 call for the restitution of African cultural heritage, reports RFI. Despite the return of these artefacts, many others remain in European museums, and Diop hopes her film will reignite the conversation around restitution and justice. The documentary won the Golden Bear at the Berlin International Film Festival, highlighting its significance in addressing collective historical amnesia.
University ban
The Nigerian federal government's recent blanket ban on degree certificates from universities in Togo and Benin, announced by Education Minister Tahir Mamman, has sparked controversy and concern. This decision followed revelations of degree certificate racketeering, including a report of a journalist obtaining a degree in just six weeks. The ban retroactively de-recognizes degrees obtained from these countries between 2017 and 2023, punishing legitimate graduates along with offenders. Critics argue that the government has not thoroughly investigated the accredited institutions, with stakeholders from Benin disputing the minister’s claims about the number of approved universities. As reported by The Nation, graduates and student organisations have protested, claiming the ban is unjust and has damaged their reputations. The article calls for a more nuanced approach that distinguishes between fake and legitimate degree holders while addressing educational quality issues with the respective governments.
Athlete missing in France
Benin track and field athlete Odile Ahouanwanou has been missing in France since September 10. French police are seeking witnesses to her disappearance near Rouen after she dropped off her child and did not return. Her last known location was Neufchâtel-en-Bray, and she drives a Volkswagen Polo. Ahouanwanou, 33, finished eighth in the heptathlon at the 2019 World Championships, reports the Irish Independent.
Ademola Lookman congratulated
Ademola Lookman is the sole African nominee for the 2024 Ballon d'Or, recognised for his significant contributions to both his club, Atalanta, and the Nigerian national team. Lookman scored three goals at the 2023 AFCON, helping Nigeria secure the runners-up position. Benin Republic legend Razak Omotoyossi praised Lookman’s efforts, urging him to maintain his strong performance. Lookman had a standout season with Atalanta, scoring 17 goals in 45 matches and netting a hat-trick in the Europa League final, Legit reported. His nomination is seen as a testament to his hard work and impact on the field.
Fight against malaria
In April, Benin launched a malaria vaccination campaign for children under five, announced by town criers. The Ministry of Health urged families to vaccinate their young ones. Aissi Caroline, mother of nine-month-old twins, promptly took her daughters to the health centre, despite her husband's initial skepticism. This enthusiasm contrasts sharply with the wary reception of the COVID-19 vaccine. The RTSS vaccine, now part of Benin's Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI), is seen as a crucial step in combating malaria, a major public health challenge, Vaccines Work reported.
