Cultures, territories and migration journeys across the African continent.
Agadez, a historic crossroads for migration routes in northern Niger, is now at the centre of a debate intertwining human tragedy, security and media responsibility. Journalists, who often witness extreme violence and profound acts of solidarity, were trained to improve their ability to document migratory journeys while protecting individuals in transit from exploitation or manipulation. …
Migrants are often viewed negatively and labelled as invaders or occupiers — pejorative and discriminatory terms that obscure their contributions. However, migrants play a crucial role in both their host and their countries of origin, contributing their expertise, creating jobs and actively participating in community life. It is precisely in this context that the Team …
La Kribienne is a restaurant specialising in grilled fish whose name turns heads on the beaches of Cotonou. A meeting place for lovers of Kribi’s culinary delights, it attracts Cameroonians, Europeans, Beninese people and tourists alike. Kribi is a seaside and port city in Cameroon’s South Region, renowned for its sandy beaches. The restaurant’s creation …
Agadez retains the silhouette of an unfulfilled vision: dunes, ochre streets and traditional craftsmanship which could have fostered a thriving local economy. Tourist revenue remained low and inconsistent between 1995 and 2019. This reflects not only a lack of visitors, but also the real impact of recurring insecurity, which has hindered investment, employment and community …
Da Sié de Bindouté is a political analyst, sociologist and anthropologist, and one of the most influential intellectual voices in Burkina Faso and in the African continent. A committed Pan-Africanist, his thinking is deeply rooted in African culture and the pursuit of endogenous development. Currently residing in the United States, he continues to observe and …
The aromas of wedding celebrations in N’Djamena, the Chadian capital have changed. During festive afternoons, amid the laughter of women and the rhythms of the balafon, one dish now takes centre stage on the high tables: Thiebou Dieun (Ceebu Jën in Wolof language), a vibrant and sun-kissed Senegalese dish of rice and fish. In the …
While the Senegalese diaspora is often regarded as a driver of national development, the situation at the local level is more nuanced. In Rufisque, a department historically shaped by migration, the diaspora’s commitment to regional development is apparent, yet it has struggled to fully materialise and assert itself. This contrasts with regions such as Matam …
The lively atmosphere of Niamey has welcomed a new flavour. A beninese speciality, namely boiled corn (or cooked corn), has crossed borders to find a loyal audience. At the heart of this culinary venture is Dotche Espoir, a trader whose stall has become a magnet for lovers of this uniquely prepared cereal. Introducing this dish …
In Thiaroye-sur-Mer, Marième, Amy and Ndeye are learning to navigate life without their husbands, who were lost at sea. Amidst uncertainty and hardship, they are constantly reinventing their homes, managing household finances and finding ways to care for their children. This report delves into their intimate daily lives, their aspirations and the quiet dignity with …
In Porto-Novo, a city located about thirty kilometres from Cotonou, there is a market called Gbègo. Named after the neighbourhood in which it is located – a term meaning ‘rebirth’ in the local Gun language – it is one of the largest markets in Benin’s capital city. Gbègo’s uniqueness extends beyond the goods on display …
The cohesion of communities from different countries that find themselves in the same African territory is often rooted in long-standing secular ties. An example of this can be seen in the relationship between the peoples of Burkina Faso and Chad. Although they are not immediate neighbours, the two countries share close connections through their location …
The rescue of 112 migrants who were left adrift off the coast of Dakar, Senegal has drawn widespread attention. Yet behind this narrowly averted tragedy lies a darker reality: the Atlantic route has become one of the world’s deadliest migration corridors. With rising unemployment, a deepening fishing crisis, increased repression and a lack of sustainable …