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China transforms historic African slave port into tourism complex

architecture-design · 2026-06-08

The Beninese government has contracted Chinese state-owned firms to build La Marina, a large waterfront complex at the site of a historic slave port in Ouidah, Benin. The project aims to transform the area into a tourism magnet, repurposing a location central to the transatlantic slave trade. The development includes commercial and leisure facilities, reflecting China's growing infrastructure investments in Africa.

Key facts

  • China is transforming a historic African slave port into a tourist attraction.
  • The Beninese government contracted Chinese state-owned firms for the project.
  • The complex is called La Marina.
  • It is located at the main slave port in Ouidah, Benin.
  • The project aims to boost tourism.
  • It is part of China's infrastructure investments in Africa.
  • The development includes a waterfront complex.
  • The port was historically used for the slave trade.

Entities

Institutions

  • Beninese government
  • Chinese state-owned firms

Locations

  • Ouidah
  • Benin
  • Africa
  • China

Sources