JISTNA
International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition
Remember so we never forget. Benin honors the memory of the victims of the slave trade and celebrates the progress made toward freedom.
What is JISTNA?
It was on the night of August 22–23, 1791, in Saint-Domingue, now Haiti, that the uprising began that would play a decisive role in the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade. It is in this context that the International Day for the Remembrance of the Transatlantic Slave Trade and its Abolition is observed on August 23 each year.
For Benin, the former land of the Kingdom of Dahomey and the starting point of the “Slave Route” in Ouidah, this day holds special significance: paying tribute to the victims, passing on this history to younger generations, and strengthening ties with the diaspora of African descent.
“Memory is not just a moral imperative; it is a political and cultural seed.”
Schedule for the Day
The commemorative program for the events of August 22 and 23, 2026
"In the Footsteps of Our Ancestors" Memorial Walk, organized by CCOM23.
Opening Ceremony
Official Presentation of Citizenship Documents to People of African Descent Who Have Been Naturalized as Beninese Citizens by the Ministry of Justice and Legislation
Talks – Debates
"Fabrics of Our Ancestors" Workshop
Inaugural Lecture: “Exploring the Space-Time of Departure to Understand the Return”
Speaker: Dr. Sylvestre Edjêkpoto
Panel 1 - “Transatlantic Deportation and Return Initiatives” Moderator: Gédéon Kiki
Speakers: Prof. D. Gnammankou, E. Quenum, A. O. L. Houngbo
Panel 2 - “Colonial Looting and Restitution Initiatives” Moderator: Osséni Soubérou
Speakers: D. Houénoudé, F. Ogou, A. Godonou, and H.E. F. A. Afoukou
Cross-Discussions
Comments and questions from participants · responses from presenters
Closing
Practical Information
All the essential information you need to plan your visit and make the most of this commemorative day.
The Date
Opening Day on the 22nd, Official Ceremonies on the 23rd (9:00 a.m.–7:30 p.m.)
The Venue
Starting point on the Slave Route.
Access
Admission is open to everyone, in keeping with the spirit of this commemoration.
Transportation
Each participant is responsible for arranging their own transportation to Ouidah (about 1 hour from Cotonou).
Recommended Attire
Choose white and ochre tones, as a tribute to peace and the earth as a source of remembrance.
Additional Information
- Be sure to bring water and sun protection (hat, sunscreen): the ceremonies take place outdoors all day long.
- Wear comfortable shoes: the morning memorial walk covers about 2 km to the Door of No Return.
- A moment of respectful reflection is requested when crossing the Door of No Return.
Gallery
Relive the highlights from recent editions of JISTNA.
Contact Us
Do you have a question about the event? Feel free to contact us.
contact@jistna.bj
Address
Ouidah, Benin