3rd Afrikan Ecoversities Regional Gathering, Benin (3–14 January 2026): Programme Update

The 3rd Afrikan Ecoversities Regional Gathering, scheduled from 3 to 14 January 2026, has so far been engaging and rich in learning, community interaction, and cultural exchange. Hosted in Benin by GRABE-Benin, the programme has combined structured sessions, field activities, and collective reflection.

3 January – Arrival and Orientation

Participants arrived and took part in orientation sessions. The day focused on registration, programme overview, introduction to the host organisations, and setting shared agreements for the gathering.

4 January – Opening and Formal Welcome

The programme formally opened with an opening ceremony involving the traditional King. This marked the official start of the Ecoversities programme. Participants were introduced to the local context and the structure of the days ahead.

5 January – Presentations and Community Learning

Participants delivered presentations sharing experiences from different learning spaces and community initiatives. The day also included practical workshops in the village, emphasizing community-based knowledge and participatory learning.

6 January – Field Visits and Case Studies

Activities included visits to the forest and river, offering opportunities to explore ecological relationships and land-based learning. Case study visits highlighted long-term community initiatives, alongside continued skill-sharing among participants.

7 January – Ceremonies and Skill Sharing

The focus shifted to ceremonies, cultural practices, and peer-to-peer skill sharing. Participants exchanged practical methods, facilitation approaches, and reflections drawn from their diverse contexts.

8 January – University of Nature: Water and Spirituality

The programme transitioned into the University of Nature, centered on water. Sessions included conversations with invited elders and community members on water spirituality, the sacredness of water, and water-related spiritual traditions.

9 January – Water Traditions and Vodun Festival Participation

Participants continued University of Nature sessions, sharing water-related experiences from different countries. The day also included participation in the Vodun Festival and visits to Vodun communities, offering insight into living spiritual traditions.

10 January – Rituals and Community Engagement

Activities included water rituals guided by elders, continued dialogue on cultural and spiritual relationships with water, and further engagement linked to the Vodun Festival.

11 January – Rest Day (Parliamentary Election Day)

Today, 11 January, is parliamentary election day in Benin. Formal programme activities were paused. Participants are resting and engaging in small-circle workshops and informal discussions.

12 January – Departures and Optional Excursions

From tomorrow, 12 January, some participants will depart, while others will continue their Ecoversities experience through optional excursions, extending learning through visits to additional cultural, historical, and ecological sites.

13–14 January – Continuation and Conclusion

Optional activities continue, followed by final departures, bringing the gathering to a close on 14 January 2026.