STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARED DUE TO TORRENTIAL RAINS

Benin declared a state of emergency for the entire country on 7 July 2009 after torrential rains in recent weeks have caused serious flooding and damage throughout Benin. Officials indicated that recent rains have disrupted transportation, communication, power and water supply throughout the country, including in Cotonou, the economic capital and largest city. Sources indicated that southern Benin has been particularly affected by the rains, where approximately 2000 residents have already been displaced. Health officials have called for international humanitarian aid to prevent the outbreak and spread of such diseases as malaria and cholera. Officials in Cotonou indicated that many of the city's residential neighborhoods have been adversely affected by flooding. Officials warned that the situation will likely worsen in the coming days as further rains are forecast during this year's rainy season