Numbering Plan Change for Benin

Starting October 31st, 2024, Benin is introducing a new phone number format. This change affects all phone numbers in the country, so it’s important to prepare.

What’s changing?

A new “01” prefix will be added to every phone number in Benin. Here’s how the format will look:

• Current Format: +229 97 00 00 00
• New Format: +229 01 97 00 00 00

The new prefix comes after the country code (+229). The rest of the number stays the same.

Example:

Let’s say your friend’s current number is +229 94 56 78 90.
After the change, their number will become +229 01 94 56 78 90.

You just add the “01” between the country code and the original number!

 

Why is this happening?

This change is being made to create more phone numbers for Benin’s growing population of mobile users.

Key dates

• October 31st, 2024: The new format begins.
• October 31st – November 29th, 2024: Both old and new formats will work during a transition period.
• November 30th, 2024: Only the new format will work.

What should you do?

1. Update Your Contacts:
   Add the “01” prefix to all Benin phone numbers saved in your phone or systems.

2. Check Your Tools:
   Make sure systems like payment platforms, customer databases, or SMS tools can handle the new 10-digit format.

3. Let Others Know:
   Tell your customers, friends, or team about this change so they can also update their records.

Quick Tip

Always save phone numbers in international format (with the country code, e.g., +229). It keeps your contacts future-proof for changes like this!

Make these small updates now, and you’ll stay connected without any disruptions.