President Patrice Talon on Thursday visited the Sacred Forest of Kpassè in Ouidah as part of the symbolic activities marking the start of the Vodun Days 2026 celebrations. The visit took place just hours after the festivities officially began.
The Sacred Forest of Kpassè is regarded as one of the most important spiritual and historical sites of Vodun worship in Benin. The presidential visit formed part of the traditional rites that signal the official opening of the three-day cultural event, which commenced on January 8, 2026.
President Talon was accompanied by the Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, Jean-Michel Abimbola, and the President of the Vodun Rites Committee, Mahougnon Kakpo. Through this symbolic presence, the government reaffirmed its recognition of Vodun as a core element of Benin’s cultural identity.
The visit also underscored the authorities’ commitment to promoting traditional heritage as a key driver of cultural diplomacy and tourism development, positioning Vodun Days as a major event on Benin’s cultural calendar.
