Discovery

Discovery

Cultures, territories and migration journeys across the African continent.

Farewell ritual, a practice linked to irregular migration in Benin
Discovery

Farewell ritual, a practice linked to irregular migration in Benin

In centre-west Benin, particularly in the Donga department, irregular departures are common, driven by the desire to migrate and eventually return home and rebuild one’s life. However, this journey is often fraught with obstacles, forcing migrants and their families to prepare for the worst. Testimonies from Beninese migrants who have returned home after experiencing life …

Celebrating culture, inclusion and sustainable devt at Festival des Africains du Niger
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Celebrating culture, inclusion and sustainable devt at Festival des Africains du Niger

Set to take place in Niamey in December 2025, the seventh edition of the Festival des Africains du Niger (Festival of Africans in Niger) will transform the nation’s capital into a vibrant cultural and social crossroads. Led by Marc Sylva Bikok, this annual event celebrates arts and traditions, and aims to forge lasting connections among …

Benin regulatory initiative to counter worker trafficking to Middle East
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Benin regulatory initiative to counter worker trafficking to Middle East

Social organisations in Benin are working to promote safe and legal migration, upholding the human rights of workers, particularly those travelling to Gulf countries in the Middle East. In response to the trafficking risks faced by some domestic workers in these countries, reforms are underway and discussions are taking place to develop an advocacy document …

Media as watchdog on migration routes
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Media as watchdog on migration routes

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. …

Diaspora in action: the inspiring example of Team Canards!
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Diaspora in action: the inspiring example of Team Canards!

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 restaurant in Benin, a tribute to Cameroon
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La Kribienne restaurant in Benin, a tribute to Cameroon

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 …

Tourism in Niger: a missed opportunity amid rising insecurity
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Tourism in Niger: a missed opportunity amid rising insecurity

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 …

Burkinabe anthropologist’s quest for sovereignty through knowledge
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Burkinabe anthropologist’s quest for sovereignty through knowledge

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 …

“Thiebou Dieun”, a popular dish at wedding feasts in N’Djamena
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“Thiebou Dieun”, a popular dish at wedding feasts in N’Djamena

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 …

Historic Senegal city seeks to harness its diaspora to drive local
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Historic Senegal city seeks to harness its diaspora to drive local

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 …

Beninese-style cooked corn conquers Niamey
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Beninese-style cooked corn conquers Niamey

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 …

When the sea claims husbands
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When the sea claims husbands

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 …