POPULATION GROWTH AND THE AVAILABILITY OF SOCIO-COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE IN THE CENTRAL ARRONDISSEMENT OF GRAND-POPO, BENIN

This study analyzes the impact of population growth on the availability of socio-community infrastructure in the central district of Grand-Popo, Benin. It is based on a review of existing literature and a field survey of 227 households in the Onkuihoué, Houssoukouè, and Ewe-Condji neighborhoods. The results indicate that 89% of respondents attribute population growth to natural factors and migration. Regarding reasons for settling in the area, 58% of residents are natives, 27% moved for a change of living environment, 10% for work, and 5% for marriage. In terms of water access, 80% of households have a well (covered or uncovered), while 93% use well water for domestic needs. However, 87% of respondents consider access to potable water—whether from pumps, standpipes, or the SONEB network—to be insufficient. Regarding health services, 66% of households rate the quality as "fair," while 19% rate it "quite good" and 15% "acceptable." Furthermore, 88% of respondents report that schools lack perimeter fencing, compromising the safety of students and staff. The study highlights a shortage of water, sanitation, educational, and recreational infrastructure, as well as their uneven distribution relative to population growth. It concludes that increased public investment and improved spatial planning are essential to sustainably enhance the population's living conditions.