VODUN DAYS 2026

On January 8 and 9, 2026, members of our network from Benin, Togo, and Côte d’Ivoire came together to take part in the Vodun Days, the largest cultural and spiritual festival held in Benin. The festival celebrates and showcases Vodun heritage — an ancestral tradition that remains deeply woven into the history, identity, and everyday life of the region. Every year, people from around the world travel to Benin to experience the rituals, music, dances, and artistic expressions connected to Vodun, while gaining a deeper understanding of its place and influence within African societies.

For us, being together at the Vodun Days was much more than attending a festival. It was a meaningful opportunity to begin shaping our future project, “Colonial Footprints,” while reconnecting with our own cultural roots. As people working closely with rural communities, where traditions and cultural practices continue to play a central role in daily life, taking part in this event felt essential. It allowed us to better understand local realities, listen more deeply, and draw inspiration that will help make our future actions more grounded, respectful, and connected to the communities we work with.

This experience left a deep impression on all of us. It strengthened our ties to our cultures and traditions, while reminding us of the importance of acting with authenticity, humility, and purpose alongside the communities we support.