Benin National Television Now Airing Christian Program

3xM reports that ORTB, the national television station in Benin, has begun airing the Christian program "Miel Mortel" (Deadly Honey). With a target audience of youth and young adults, Miel Mortel provides a refreshing and relevant perspective on relationships and sexuality, as well as raising the awareness of the dangers of HIV/AIDS. For the first time, all 8,000,000 people in Benin are able to watch this biblically-based program.

"This is a unique opportunity", says Martien Timmer, International Director of 3xM.

Initially, the station was hesitant to air the program. However, in nearby countries like Ivory Coast where the program has been shown for several years, viewer responses have been very positive. Armed with this information, ORTB's new station director recently opened the doors to broadcast the program. "The first step to making Miel Mortel a part of the regular programming schedule in Benin-getting it on the air-has been accomplished," says Timmer.

In July, three episodes were aired on ORTB. 3xM's partner organization African Christian Television (PEMA/ACT) from Ivory Coast has now delivered fourteen episodes of Miel Mortel.

Benin is challenged with a very high illiteracy rate-only 35% of the population over the age of 15 can read and write. Of the 8,000,000 inhabitants, about 30% of the population is Christian, while nearly half follow traditional ethnic practices.

Timmer observes, "In Benin, television is an important source of information, but sadly, Christian content is minimal. 3xM aims to equip and assist Beninese Christians to reach out and make a difference using this popular medium."

3xM

For nearly 30 years, 3xM has partnered with Christians in producing and broadcasting television programs. The transfer of knowledge is an important part of 3xM's mission. Focusing primarily on the 10-40 Window, 3xM generally operates in countries where there are few Christians.