Children are at risk
Demographically speaking, Benin is a very young nation: nearly 65% of the country’s population is younger than 25. Life for many Beninese children can be tough as their rights are violated every day. While some children are undernourished and do not live in proper houses, others have lost their parents due to AIDS or other illnesses, and are left to fend for themselves. These children are very unlikely to attend school. Poor access to basic services, food and education turns life for the children of Benin into an everyday challenge.
40%
Of the population in Benin are poor
Widespread poverty
While Benin has seen steady economic growth over the past two decades, this has not benefitted everyone equally. 40% of the population are poor. Life becomes a daily struggle for those who find themselves on the lowest rungs of the socioeconomic ladder. Poverty in Benin is predominantly a rural phenomenon: the vast majority of people do not have access to sanitation facilities or drinking water. Often, children have to work in order to financially assist their families. Droppping out of school seriously diminishes their chances to lead a better life once they become adults.
3 in 10
People in Benin are able to read and write
Education
Access to education has been improving in Benin. The vast majority of children enrolls in primary school. However, the quality of education remains quite poor, as only around 3 in 10 people in Benin know how to read and write. This number is even lower for women and girls. Many children do not complete primary education, let alone continue to secondary school. Parents cannot always afford to send their children to school. Without a proper education, children and young people struggle to escape the cycle of poverty.
45%
Of children do not grow properly
Health
Since the living conditions for many Beninese families are so dire, many children do not get enough nutritious food to develop healthily. Growing up in a poor family puts children at risk of undernourishment. In fact, in Benin, around 45% of children experience difficulties related to their physical and intellectual development, often due to undernourishment. This can have severe long-term effects for these children. Furthermore, out of 1,000 live births, 93 children never reach the age of five.
Together we can make a difference for children in Benin
Are supported in the community
Learn at our kindergartens and schools
Are supported on their way to independence
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The children spend most of their time outside in the garden - playing and having fun together, they often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages in Benin)
Let’s keep on protecting children and young people!
Many children have been able to find a safe and secure home. With your help, we can continue to change their lives