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Sub Saharan Africa
Benin |
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Country information
TRADE AND INVESTMENT
Development
Benin's development has been held back by frequent military intervention in government. In 2005, Benin is ranked 163 out of 177 countries on the 2006 UNDP's Human development index. Although Benin has a sizeable educated elite, access to education for the majority is poor. In 2004 the adult literacy rate was only 54%. There has been a lack of investment in both education and healthcare over the years. The spread of AIDS, still low compared to other African countries, is expected to lower the health indicators further. Life expectancy has dropped as a result. However, social spending should rise under the new PRGF. Benin relies heavily on external assistance, including on IMF funds. France has always been and remains the principal bilateral donor.
United Nations Development Programme
