In the Sahel region, where temperatures often exceed 40°C during the hottest months of the year, such as March and April, heatwaves make daily life especially challenging. In countries such as Niger, Chad, Mali, Burkina Faso and Mauritania, the lack of green spaces means there are few places to seek shelter and rest. Against this backdrop, a group of young Chadians from the Team Canards association launched an innovative initiative: a welcoming space for the people of Ouagadougou. Known as the ‘HQ of Central Africa’, it provides an ideal place to rest, recharge, chat or work in peace.

A green oasis in the heart of Ouaga

The Central African headquarters is a true urban oasis, shaded by majestic eucalyptus and neem trees, as well as a variety of other plant species. Each tree is carefully painted in the colours of the Central African national flag, symbolising unity and diversity. West African countries are also represented, reflecting regional integration.

This green sanctuary offers a striking contrast to the surrounding heat, with sunlight almost entirely blocked by the dense canopy. Around the site, a vegetable garden thrives where men and women cultivate crops, contributing to the local community and making the most of the available land. The combination of lush greenery, the fresh scent of plants and vegetables and a light, cooling breeze creates an atmosphere of calm and renewal.

Chadian and African cuisine

The headquarters also boasts a welcoming restaurant offering a variety of culinary specialities from Central Africa and the wider region. Guests can enjoy traditional Chadian dishes such as ‘boule’ or ‘pâté’ (fufu), which are made from millet, cassava or other local grains. The menu features flavourful options such as sautéed kidneys with onions, sautéed liver with peas and carp soup.

Highlights for fish lovers include Chadian-style fried fish and soup made from captain fish carcasses. Fish lovers will enjoy the Chadian-style fried fish or the soup made from captain fish carcasses. ‘Sautéed marara’,  ‘koko’ and ‘saka saka’ – the latter two originating from the Central African Republic and the Republic of Congo – complete this authentic selection, offering a true taste of Central Africa.

A place for cultural encounters and exchanges in the heart of Burkina Faso’s capital

This unique space is more than just a garden; resembling a small urban forest, it is located next to the protected Bangr-Weogo Forest in the centre of Ouagadougou. The Central African headquarters therefore serve as a natural meeting point where nature, culture and urban life converge.

Visitors come together to share memories, experiences and stories about their countries of origin. The nostalgic atmosphere fosters lively discussions on a range of topics, from politics and sports to football – a shared passion.

“The HQ has become a regular meeting place for foreign nationals; a friendly space where people can relax, chat and build connections, strengthening the sense of community within Ouagadougou,” informs Maxime T. Nadjinabé, HQ manager and Team Canard member.