Capturing the weight of the Mali humanitarian crisis through art

In contemporary Mali, approximately 6.4 million individuals are currently in need of urgent humanitarian aid and protection. The nation has seen more than 400,000 people displaced internally, a demographic largely comprised of women and children. Additionally, a severe food crisis impacts 1.5 million residents, while an equal number of children under the age of five are battling acute malnutrition. Behind these harrowing figures are the lived experiences of men, women, and children, including both those forced from their homes and the humanitarian workers assisting them.

To draw international focus toward this neglected situation, a collective of seven aid organizations, such as Action contre la faim, organized an exhibition featuring the work of Malian photographer Tiécoura N’Daou. The showcase, titled “Mali regards personnels sur la crise humanitaire,” recently concluded in the German capital of Berlin. In this discussion, we hear from the artist, who also balances roles as a researcher and educator within Mali.

The rise of indigenous flours in Cameroon

In the heart of Yaoundé, Cameroon, the comforting aroma of baking bread is taking on a transformative role. The capital recently hosted a prestigious competition to identify the best artisan baker, highlighting a shift in traditional baking practices.

This event was orchestrated by the Service d’Appui aux Initiatives Locales de Développement (SAILD) in collaboration with the Association Citoyenne de Défense des Intérêts Collectifs (ACDIC). The primary goal was to encourage the integration of local flours into the bakery sector, showcasing the creativity of young professionals. A detailed report on this movement was provided by Elisabeth Asen.