In Benin, child trafficking remains a worrying reality, particularly in the northern border regions of the country, where many children are still victims of economic exploitation, abuse or other forms of violence.
For over ten years, the FFL has been working to combat child trafficking and support the reintegration of children, in partnership with the Association for the Protection of Disadvantaged Children (APEM). The project is being implemented in several municipalities in the departments of Borgou, Alibori, Atacora and Donga, in close collaboration with local communities and authorities.
In 2025, 227 children aged between 7 and 17 were taken in by the care and protection centres supported by the foundation. All received comprehensive care, including healthcare, psychosocial support, food and clothing. Following in-depth social assessments, 205 children have already been successfully reintegrated into their family environments.
The project also supports the schooling of younger children and the vocational integration of teenagers. As a result, 15 children under the age of 14 were reintegrated into the school system and received school kits. Furthermore, 76 young people were referred to vocational training, 57 of whom had their apprenticeship costs covered.
To promote sustainable reintegration, regular follow-up is provided for reintegrated children and young people in apprenticeships. In 2025, 432 children were supported in this way, whilst 50 young people received professional equipment to facilitate their economic integration and the launch of their businesses.