Beninese Culture

The Beninese people have an incredible culture that is all their own.  I did not realize that voodoo has its origins in Benin.  There are signs of voodoo almost everywhere.  Many people have small scars (usually three short vertical scars on the cheek) to protect them from bad health.  There are also large Muslim and Christian populations in Benin.  I am told that many people who are Christian or Muslim still believe in Voodoo as well. 

Last weekend we met with the King of Porto Novo.  As we entered his palace, we removed our shoes as a sign of respect.  Only the king can wear shoes on the palatial grounds.  We all bowed when he entered the room.  We were only able to meet with the king because Dr. Sylvain Boko is also a prince here of a region called Pobe.  It turns out that Sylvain is bit of a man of mystery.  The king spoke with us about the history of Benin and Voodoo.  Our meeting with the king will go down as one of the most interesting experiences I have ever had.

Beninese food is also quite interesting.  In some ways it is similar to food I have had in other developing countries (fried fish, rice, and the ubiquitous french fry).  However, this area has its own traditions.  Amiwo is a starch dish made from corn that is unlike anything I have ever eaten.  You grab a scoop of amiwo (with your right hand) and dip it into the sauce of the meat dish.  It is polite to eat only with your right hand.  I have found that eating with one hand can be quite difficult when trying to finish a meal including crab.  You just have to bite into the crab shell and all and then separate the meat and shell in your mouth.  Fun stuff!

Presentation is extremely important here.  It seems like everyone is always dressed up.  Most men seen on the street are wearing button down shirts and nice slacks or the traditional Beninise attire.  Many women wear traditional Beninese dresses that are brightly colored and quite formal.