As originally planned, despite all the efforts of the Magical Unicorn Pony God of Travel, we got in our tour of Nzulezo, a village built on stilts in the water. We lucked out and had a guide who opened up and engaged with us. It is an interesting culture. At the end of the tour, you are given the oral history which dates back to the 14th century when current peoples fled a war centered in Mali/Timbuktu, which in those days was a glorious, and grand capital city. Over a period of a couple of centuries the people migrated until they came to the area that now Ghana and the Cote d'Ivoire. This particular branch moved up the river and built their home over the water (Nzulezo means 'over the water') which served them well as a refuge ever since. Like many traditional communities, this one (with over 500 inhabitants) struggles to stay economically viable.
Heading out from the landing point
Led by our engaging guide, Arthur. He is from Nzulezo. He told me people loved their lifestyle and want to stay in the village but economics demand otherwise particularly for the young. We engaged in a lot of discussion on what might be done to change that.
Continuing on we pass a second landing. This is used during the dry season when water levels drop dramatically.
Lush vegetation and wildlife
There are sections where it is narrow and shallow. They had to turn off the motor and pole the boat forward.
Fishing is a major occupation, mostly subsistence fishing but some is sold locally.
Going out to work
A variety of fish traps
Elementary school is done in the village. They have a hard time getting teachers to come. Middle and High school are done in the main town. Children commute.
The school bus
The water has the most amazing reflective quality
Arriving at the village
Main Street. Perpendicular run other stilt roads, each which is a family group. On one side is the sleeping areas, the other is the cooking communal areas.
Young crocodiles which I thought were becoming dinner, but which my fact checker, driver S, let me know were just held as sort of pets.
Life in the Village
Laundry Stilt Village Style
Wisdom is universal
We with the village Elder (and our driver who was great!)
On our way back
View from our room at the end of the day
2 comments:
That sounds really interesting! It seems really hard to preserve traditional ways of life (and locations) like this.
Definitely off the beaten path! I know your trip has been a taxing one but this does seem like a very enriching experience that can make you reflect a lot . Alexis
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