Benin Republic Harnesses Cultural Resources for Economic Growth
The Republic of Benin is leveraging culture to drive economic growth, with plans to build four new museums and a cultural quarter in its largest city, Cotonou. The focus is on telling the history of slavery, preserving non-material heritage, increasing cultural tourism, and attracting private investors. The government aims to make culture the economy’s second pillar after agriculture, emphasizing the role of arts in creating jobs and boosting the economy. The new museums, including the Musée d’Art Contemporain de Cotonou and the Musée International du Vodun, aim to showcase international and domestic talent while rehabilitating the image of Indigenous religions. These initiatives are part of a larger strategy to promote the arts, drive tourism, and stimulate economic growth in Benin, with a focus on expanding education and professional training in the arts sector. Throughout these efforts, the government is also seeking to involve the private sector and spark interest from entrepreneurs in the arts industry.
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Elara Voss, graduated from the Royal College of Art in London with a Master’s in Fine Art. She specializes in contemporary sculpture and installation art, exploring themes of nature and human interaction. Elara’s works have been featured in several group exhibitions across Europe, and she is currently working on her first solo show.