Rugby union was introduced into Benin by the French, who ruled the country for a number of years as "Dahomey".
Rugby is centred on the national capitals, and main cities, Cotonou and Porto-Novo, both of which are on the south coast. Benin is a slender country, and its poverty and lack of infrastructure make it difficult to maintain a proper national league structure. Benin is one of the poorest countries in the world.
Like many African countries, the historical connection with France is a mixed blessing. For a number of years, Beninois rugby players would leave to play there, which deprived rugby in Benin of any real competition.
