PRESENTATION OF PARAKOU CITY
The Parakou city symbolises the harmonious blend of tradition, culture and modernity
KOBOUROU CITY
Parakou, also known as the City of Kobourou, is a cosmopolitan town in the Borgou department of Benin. It is a municipality with special status and is divided into three arrondissements. The town’s mayor is Inoussa Zimé CHABI. The most widely spoken local languages in Parakou are Bariba (Baatombu) and Dendi. Parakou is well-connected to the rest of Benin, with a railway line and an airport located on its outskirts. Parakou has a rich history as the Bariba kingdom known as the Kobourou Kingdom, founded by Kobourou AKPAKI. The town is known for its tolerance towards other peoples, which benefits regional trade. The current King of Parakou is His Majesty AKPAKI Gobi GNINSÈ. Parakou is also an important educational centre, with the Mathieu BOUKE High School and the University of Parakou campus. Overall, Parakou is a diverse and historically significant town that serves as a gateway to the north of Benin and its tourist sites.
Welcome
Parakou, a town in northern Benin, is a hidden gem for tourists seeking authenticity and cultural diversity. As the Mayor of Parakou, I take great pride in presenting our town as a must-visit destination. With its cosmopolitan atmosphere and rich heritage, Parakou captivates visitors from the moment they step foot in the town. Parakou is more than just a town, it is a melting pot where different cultures and traditions blend harmoniously. The town has a reputation for tolerance towards other peoples who choose to live here. This is evident in its lively streets, colourful markets, and unique architecture that reflect its rich history and diverse cultural heritage. One of the notable markets is the international Arzèkè market, where visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere and find a wide variety of goods. In addition to the cultural experiences found in Parakou, the town offers an array of traditional dances that showcase the local traditions. One such dance is the Tèkè, which hails from the Baatonu cultural area. This festive dance is performed during popular celebrations, where caravaneers express their joy at being reunited after a long period of separation. Tèkè is also performed during the enthronement of a king or the Gaani festival, adding to the cultural richness of the town. The Baatonu cultural area, which influences Parakou’s traditions, also holds the horse in high regard. Horses serve not only as a means of transportation for princes and royal authorities but also play a role in various cultural activities in the city. This further contributes to the unique cultural tapestry of Parakou. In conclusion, Parakou is a tourist pearl in northern Benin, offering a blend of authenticity, cultural diversity, and historical significance. Visitors will be delighted by the cosmopolitan atmosphere, colourful markets, and unique architecture. They can also partake in traditional dances such as Tèkè and witness the cultural importance of horses in this region. Parakou is truly a haven for those seeking a genuine and enriching travel experience in Benin.
The commune of Parakou is located 435 km from Cotonou. It comprises three arrondissements and fifty-eight districts. The commune is administered by a 31-member municipal council headed by the Mayor, Inoussa ZIME CHABI.
Parakou is the capital of the Borgou department, and as such is home to the decentralised departments of sectoral ministries and the general administration of the State, as well as many regional agencies.
Km2
Population
Precipitaions (mm /year)
Temperature average
Parakou is connected to both the south and north of the country by a well-developed road network, via the RNIE2, which links Cotonou to Malanville. The development of bus networks ensures Parakou’s accessibility and ease of transport for visitors.
Images of Parakou
Copyright 2023
