For decades, Ganvié, nicknamed Benin's Venice, was a romantic haven where couples would paddle silently across the canals at night, escaping the watchful eyes of their families. This time-honored tradition allowed lovers to connect intimately and share whispered promises away from societal constraints. However, modern influences such as dating apps are challenging this age-old practice, leading to a significant reduction in the number of couples visiting the canal for secret meetings.

As younger generations embrace technology, the traditional rituals that once characterized love in Ganvié are fading. While some locals nostalgically reminisce about the past and still visit the iconic Lovers' Square—a symbolic space where couples can pledge their love—foot traffic has diminished. The dwindling presence of canoes on the waters and the shift towards digital romance underscore a broader cultural change, as the convenience and accessibility of dating apps transform how relationships are initiated and maintained.

The implications of this transformation are two-fold. On one hand, the romantic lore of Ganvié is at risk of being lost as fewer young couples participate in the rituals that have defined love in this area. On the other hand, the evolution of romance into digital spaces reflects the changing values and lifestyles of today's youth, who are finding love in a rapidly modernizing world. This juxtaposition highlights the tensions between tradition and modernity, inviting reflection on what love and courtship mean in contemporary society.