Researchers, academics, museum curators, traditional dignitaries and cultural practitioners gathered in Porto-Novo on July 25–26, 2026, for an international scientific symposium dedicated to Vodun masks and their place in contemporary societies.
Organised alongside the 2026 Festival of Masks, the meeting of researchers and experts was hosted by the African Heritage School (EPA) under the theme “Vodun Masks: Heritage and Modernity.”
Coordinated by Professor Mahougnon Kakpo, the symposium provided a platform to examine issues related to the preservation, transmission and promotion of African cultural heritage.
Participants discussed a range of topics, including ritual practices associated with Vodun masks, their artistic expressions, the conservation of tangible and intangible heritage, the restitution of African cultural property, and the role of scientific research and new technologies in safeguarding traditions.
The Beninese government was represented by Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage Yassine Latoundji, Minister of Tourism and Foreign Trade Oushegun Bakary Adjadi, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Sèdami Mèdègan Fagla, and Minister-Counsellor Jonas Hantan.
According to the organisers, the participation of these senior government officials reflects the authorities’ commitment to strengthening ties between scientific research, cultural institutions and the promotion of indigenous knowledge systems.
A total of 30 speakers from Benin, Nigeria, France and the United States presented their work before more than 200 participants drawn from academia, heritage institutions and the cultural sector.
At the conclusion of the two-day event, the recommendations put forward are expected to contribute to stronger policies for the preservation and promotion of Vodun heritage.
Through this symposium, organised as part of the Festival of Masks, Benin aims to position its cultural heritage as a driver of research, knowledge transmission, development and international influence.
TE/Sf/lb/as/APA