The government, in its quest to better sell Benin as a destination, has implemented projects that take into account several cities. The realisation of these projects has therefore enabled the city of Cotonou to get a new look and to host several tourist sites that make up its beauty and grandeur. The economic capital thus becomes the crossroads of Beninese culture and opens up to the world.
Cotonou is no longer just the economic capital of Benin. The showcase city has recently been home to several tourist sites that reveal all its splendour. These are the Amazon monument, the Mathieu garden and the Bio Guéra statue. The completely renovated Remembrance Square adds a touch of beauty to the cosmopolitan city.
Asphalting, the ambitious project that has transformed Cotonou and several other cities.
Since the government of the rupture came to power, development and renovation work has begun to take shape. The asphalting work, the tarring of arteries and impassable lanes, very quickly made several cities, including Cotonou, shine. All these initiatives not only give a new face to Benin, but also turn the eyes of the world towards this once ignored country.
From the Amazon monument to Bio Guéra, these works reinforce the attractiveness of Cotonou.
In Cotonou, four tourist sites are admired by locals and tourists alike. There is Mathieu’s garden, the former home of the late President of the Republic Mathieu Kérékou. From its former name “Les filaos”, this residence has been transformed into a flowery area with a pleasant scent for future visitors. A few steps away, on the fences of the ex-OCBN and the autonomous port of Cotonou, there is a vast mural painting showing works of art returned by France, symbols of tradition, great African figures and others. This mixture gives the country a refined and aesthetic appearance, while at the same time telling the story of the people, which will be remembered by visitors and future generations. On the boulevard of the marina, the gigantic Amazon statue is erected. Machete in her right hand, holding her rifle in her left hand with a serene look, she expresses the bravery of the African woman. To this list is added the statue of the wassangari warrior Bio Guéra on his horse while running. It glimpses the ardour and bravery with which the warriors fought to stop the colonial invasion. In addition, the Martyrs’ Square was refurbished to pay tribute to the soldiers and civilians who fell with their weapons in hand during the military aggression of 16 January 1977.
It should be noted that other developments are underway and others are also announced to enhance the image of Cotonou. This is to enhance the historical identity as well as the cultural and political history of Benin.
Thierry Hounye (stag)
