00:00For the past three years the government of Benin has organized an international
00:08festival around the 10th of January, a date dedicated to the traditional Vodun or Voodoo
00:14religion. On this occasion, followers from all over the country, elsewhere in Africa and the
00:23diaspora gather in the city of Ouida, known as the world's spiritual capital of Vodun.
00:30This day allows us to show the population the value of African culture, the value of
00:39traditional culture. Vodun, I would say, is our reality. We invite everyone to come and
00:45experience these realities and see the tangible facts of Vodun for themselves. Vodun is good,
00:52Vodun does good.
00:53Vodun is gaining visibility and attracting new followers from elsewhere. Among them
00:59is American Charisma Freeman, who was recently appointed traditional queen.
01:03My life has changed tremendously. I'm currently learning what it means to be the queen, learning
01:10more about the Vodun. You are more than one Vodun comes to you, so it's learning about all
01:16of the different Voduns, not just the one.
01:19In addition, the Vodun days have become a real tourist magnet, attracting thousands of visitors
01:25from the continent and beyond every year. It's magnificent, it's lovely to see African culture
01:33bringing the whole world together. The festival opens with a giant concert on Ouida beach, bringing
01:42together national and international stars. The world of young Beninese artist Bobo Wei is
01:48deeply influenced by Vodun. His song entitled Vodun celebrates the beauty and strength of this
01:54traditional religion. The people of Benin call me the son of Vodun because in my music I promote Vodun.
02:03Benin sees me as someone who values this tradition. It's my heritage.
02:09Vodun days will return in early January 2027, much to the delight of devotees and festival-goers alike.
02:20Please leave me there.
02:22Go to the temple that's been Back Alive.
02:24Please leave my house with the way.
02:26Please leave me there.
02:41In my opinion, how do you believe in the beginning?
02:44You will come back to the center of the world?
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