The majority of Benin's population lives in the south. The population is young, with a life expectancy of 59 years. About 42 African ethnic groups live in this country; these various groups settled in Benin at different times and also migrated within the country.
The Voodoo Festival popularly known as the National Voodoo Dayis the major festival in Benin that attracts thousands of followers to Ouidah. The festival is held in January every year at a beach and people in colourful local dress dance, drum and pray while animals are slaughtered in rituals.
In 2004, total health care expenditure was estimated at 3.3% of GDP. In Benin, most serious epidemic diseases have been brought under control by mobile health units and other facilities. The government of Benin has set goals of expanding its health care system, upgrading the quality of first referral care, promoting private sector care, and improving public sector care.