Benin’s landscape is a mix of coastal commerce, inland markets and rural communities where access to services varies widely. Economic differences show up clearly between towns, affecting education, health and local opportunity.
There are 10 Poorest Cities in Benin, ranging from Banikoara to Tanguiéta. For each entry, data are presented by Country,Poverty rate (%),Population (year) so you can compare levels and scale; you’ll find below the full list and concise notes to help interpretation.
How reliable are the poverty rates listed here?
Poverty rates typically come from national surveys and census estimates, which are the best available but can be outdated or vary by methodology; treat the percentages as indicative rather than exact and check the survey year in the Population (year) column before making decisions.
Can this list guide where to focus aid or research?
Yes, it can help prioritize areas, but combine it with local context—recent economic shifts, migration, or development projects may change conditions quickly—so use the list as a starting point and follow up with local data or partners.
Poorest Cities in Benin
| City | Country | Poverty rate (%) | Population (year) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Malanville | Benin | 74.4 (2015) | 168,641 (2013) |
| Ségbana | Benin | 73.7 (2015) | 89,081 (2013) |
| Kérou | Benin | 72.6 (2015) | 99,886 (2013) |
| Karimama | Benin | 71.9 (2015) | 66,353 (2013) |
| Kalalé | Benin | 69.8 (2015) | 168,778 (2013) |
| Matéri | Benin | 68.6 (2015) | 113,958 (2013) |
| Banikoara | Benin | 65.9 (2015) | 246,575 (2013) |
| Cobly | Benin | 64.5 (2015) | 67,633 (2013) |
| Tanguiéta | Benin | 62.3 (2015) | 99,574 (2013) |
| Kandi | Benin | 59.6 (2015) | 179,290 (2013) |
Images and Descriptions
Malanville
Situated in the far northern Alibori department, Malanville’s poverty is among the most severe in Benin. Analysis from 2015 points to its remote border location, climate shocks affecting agriculture, and limited access to basic services as key drivers of hardship.
Ségbana
This city, the seat of its commune in the Alibori department, experiences extreme poverty. According to 2015 data, its economy, heavily reliant on subsistence farming and isolated from major markets, contributes to low household incomes and widespread economic vulnerability.
Kérou
Located in the northwestern Atacora department, Kérou is characterized by deep-rooted poverty. Data from 2015 indicates that its dependence on rain-fed agriculture, poor infrastructure, and significant distance from the country’s economic core perpetuate challenging living conditions.
Karimama
As Benin’s northernmost commune seat, Karimama faces high poverty levels. Its population is highly vulnerable to climatic events like floods and droughts, which devastate local agriculture and livelihoods, as reflected in a 2015 national household survey.
Kalalé
In the eastern Borgou department, Kalalé is a hub for a commune with high poverty. Its economy is based on agriculture and pastoralism, which are increasingly pressured by climate change and land degradation, limiting economic opportunities for its residents.
Matéri
This city in the Atacora department is another urban center grappling with significant poverty. Based on 2015 poverty mapping, its isolation, reliance on subsistence agriculture, and lack of diverse employment options contribute to the difficult economic situation.
Banikoara
Known as a major cotton-producing hub in the Alibori department, Banikoara still registers a high poverty rate. Despite its agricultural importance, low commodity prices and climate variability keep many households below the poverty line, according to 2015 data.
Cobly
Located in the mountainous Atacora region, Cobly is the main town of a commune with high poverty incidence. The local economy’s heavy reliance on small-scale, traditional farming and limited infrastructure hinder development and income growth for its population.
Tanguiéta
Despite its proximity to the Pendjari National Park, a major tourist destination, the city of Tanguiéta in the Atacora department has a high poverty rate. Economic benefits from tourism are limited, and most residents depend on low-yield agriculture.
Kandi
As a major commercial center and capital of the Alibori department, Kandi’s high poverty rate is notable. Data from 2015 suggests that despite its administrative and trade functions, economic opportunities are insufficient for its large and growing population.
