The King of Savalou, a recognized monarch and philanthropist of Benin, will make his first official visit to South Florida. The Kingdom of Savalou has endured for over 500 years, predating and surviving the transatlantic slave trade. As one of the few officially recognized royal leaders within Benin’s constitutional framework, the King embodies continuity, legitimacy, and cultural pride.

This visit is especially meaningful to the Haitian community and Afro-descendants in South Florida. Benin has historically welcomed Haitians with visa-free entry and extended honorary citizenship to Afro-descendants, honoring shared ancestry and deep cultural ties.

His Majesty Dadah Ganfon Gangnihoun Toffa Gbaguidi XV, the current sovereign of Savalou, embodies this heritage.

Revered as both a cultural custodian and a modern leader, King Gbaguidi XV champions philanthropy, education, healthcare, and cultural preservation. His presence in South Florida represents not only a symbolic reconnection with the West African diaspora but also a concrete opportunity to strengthen partnerships that benefit communities in both Benin and abroad.