Benin joined the Muslim world in celebrating Tabaski on Friday, June 6, 2025, but under unusual economic pressure.

While the traditions remained the same, the cost of sheep — central to the festival — has doubled compared to previous years.

This sharp rise is linked to Niger’s border closure and a ban on sheep exports, disrupting the livestock supply chain.

With most sheep traditionally sourced from Niger, many Beninese families faced financial strain preparing for the Islamic holiday.