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The Hohovi cult of twins
In Benin, Hohovi is the Vodun cult specific to twins. Statuettes, offerings, dances: here is how Fon families keep alive the memory and protection of the Hoho.
Hohovi — small sacred figures
The statuettes Hohovi represent the twins. They are carved from sacred wood (often iroko) and blessed by a Vodun priest.
What is given to the twins
Every week or every month, people place in front of the statuettes:
When a twin dies
If a twin dies young, their statuette is kept and continues to be symbolically fed. The family “raises” the spiritual twin so as not to break the Hoho balance.
A living practice
The Hohovi cult is still active throughout southern Benin. Many families have their twin altar in the house, even Christian or Muslim families — it’s a cultural heritage that cuts across religions.
A specific cult, eternal protection
Hohovi shows how Fon culture honors twins as exceptional children. Statuettes, offerings, memory — the cult continues beyond death.
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