7 channels
Benin's television landscape is small but deeply tied to the country's political and cultural life. State broadcaster ORTB dominates the airwaves with its national channel, a regional network and a handful of thematic feeds covering news, culture and music. Commercial operators in Cotonou add entertainment and general-interest programming, but the market remains compact. Most viewers rely on terrestrial signals and satellite, with pay-TV packages available in urban centres. French is the main broadcast language, though local languages like Fon and Yoruba appear in news segments and cultural programming. The evening schedule leans heavily on news bulletins that mix official announcements with community reporting. Talk shows and panel discussions are popular, often focusing on politics, development and social issues. Entertainment ranges from locally produced dramas and comedies to dubbed foreign series, a common pattern across Francophone West Africa. Music programming is a point of pride, showcasing Benin's rich musical heritage, from traditional rhythms to contemporary Afropop and coupé-décalé. Cultural magazines highlight voodoo traditions, festivals and artisan crafts, giving the small screen a distinctly Beninese flavour. Live sport, especially domestic league football and international tournaments, draws large audiences. Religious programming also has a significant presence, with Sunday services and Islamic lectures broadcast regularly. Compared to larger neighbours like Nigeria, Benin's TV market is less commercialised and more state-influenced, but it still reflects a vibrant public sphere. For viewers abroad, watching Benin TV online offers a direct line to the country's daily conversations and cultural pulse.