Songhai Centre
A training and production centre at Porto-Novo built on closed-loop farming.
Updated 3 September 2026
Songhai was founded at Porto-Novo in 1985 by a Dominican priest of Nigerian descent, Godfrey Nzamujo, on the principle that nothing should leave the system as waste: crop residues feed animals, animal waste feeds biodigesters and fish ponds, pond sludge fertilises the fields. It trains people from across Africa, runs its own processing and shops, and has been replicated in several other countries.
What's there
- The closed loop - waste from each part of the system feeding the next.
- The biodigesters - the units converting animal waste to gas and fertiliser.
- The fish ponds - the aquaculture integrated into the cycle.
- The training programme - the students who come from across the continent.
When to go
November to February is the cool dry season. Tours run on weekdays and must be arranged. The centre is a working operation.
Good to know
This is a working training centre, not an attraction, and tours must be arranged in advance. It is spread out and involves a good deal of walking. The shop and restaurant are the easiest parts to access.
Nearby
Porto-Novo is beside it, and Adjarra is north.
What to pack for Songhai Centre
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- A reusable bag or container - For market produce and cutting down on packaging. Find on Amazon
- Wet wipes + hand sanitiser - Street food and washbasins do not always go together. Find on Amazon
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All packing kitsPlan your trip
Where to start if Songhai Centre is going on the list.
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
