Coastal Protection, Benin

Benin is planning the construction of new seawater lagoons along its Atlantic coastline to promote tourism and protect the shoreline. Two lagoons are proposed along the beaches of the village of Avloh (east of Grand Popo) and in the urban area of Fridjossè in Cotonou. These lagoons will provide safe public access to bathing areas while simultaneously protecting the coast from erosion. Each lagoon, approximately 1,000 metres in length and 70 metres in width, is designed to integrate harmoniously into the coastal landscape and to offer a safer alternative to the open sea, which is considered hazardous in the region. The artificial lagoons will be connected to the sea via channels, allowing for natural tidal water exchange. This will help maintain ecological balance and ensure good water quality.

Through the development of these seawater lagoons, Benin aims not only to stimulate tourism but also to improve the quality of life for its population in the long term. The project represents a careful balance between economic development and environmental protection and could serve as a model for similar initiatives in the region.