Aplahoué
Aplahoué is a town and arrondissement in Benin, and is the capital of the Kouffo Department. The commune covers an area of 572 square kilometres and as of 2013 had a population of 170,069 people.
Geography
Aplahoué is located in the western part of Kouffo Department, near the border with Togo. It borders the communes of Dogbo-Tota, Klouékanmè, and is adjacent to the Republic of Togo on its western edge. The terrain mainly comprises lowland savanna and agricultural plains, with altitudes around 120–150 m.
History
The commune was designated as the seat of the Kouffo Department following the 22 June 2016 decision of the Council of Ministers. Historically, Aplahoué has been a key commercial hub given its crossroads location near Togo and access to market networks such as the market of Azovè.
Administration
Aplahoué is one of the communes of the Kouffo Department. It is subdivided into seven arrondissements: Aplahoué, Atomè, Azovè, Dekpo, Godohou, Kissamey and Lonkly.
Demographics
According to census data from 2002 and estimates in 2013, Aplahoué’s population has grown significantly. Life-table and fertility data indicate that women in the commune had an average of approximately 5.7 children per woman in 2002.
Economy
Agriculture dominates the economy of Aplahoué, with key crops including maize, cassava, yams and cotton. A 2002-2004 report found the commune accounted for over 60 % of the Kouffo Department’s cotton production, indicating its role as a “white gold” zone. Major markets such as Azovè and cross-border trade with Togo further enhance its commercial role.
Culture and heritage
The commune hosts royal and chieftaincy institutions typical of the southern Benin context. Local festivals, palm-wine production and traditional crafts remain important cultural assets.