The CFL with its subordinate projects EPAL and EAD is located in Natitingou, the capital of the Atacora department in the north of Benin. We deliberately chose this location. We impart the necessary knowledge to strengthen the hitherto virtually non-existent industry in the north of the country, thereby making an essential contribution to economic development in this impoverished region.

Benin in West Africa is one of the poorest countries in the world, with a population of just under 13 million (as of 2020) and an area of 114,763 square meters. The country is ranked 163rd out of 189 countries in the 2018 Human Development Index. Many people still live below the poverty line. Although the food supply is not precariously endangered, on average a Beninese person has to make do with US$ 2,400 per year (adjusted for purchasing power). Especially in the north, where the CFL is located in the city of Natitingou, there is a lack of industrial structures and corresponding professional training.

Economically, the country is primarily dependent on agriculture. Cotton is the main industrial crop grown and exported. The cultivation of staple foods such as corn, millet and soy as well as fruits such as mangoes, pineapples and bananas is mainly for domestic consumption. Trade with neighboring countries is also important. The port in the economic center of Cotonou serves as a transshipment point for transport to the richer neighboring country of Nigeria and to the northern countries of Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali.

The country has been independent since 1960 and a presidential democracy has been established as the system of government. The official language is French.