Mopti, Mali
Mopti is on the Niger River and is located in the midst of a large area
of wetlands. The Bozo Tribe, a fishing people, are among the residents
of this area, and much of the commerce involves the river:
Including the local "Goat Wash" (which we later learned were actually short
haired sheep):
Boats are still built by hand, using hand forged nails and tools:
Fishermen in small boats may be seen all over the river, casting their
nets:
Drying Fish in a nearby village:
These are solid slabs of salt, brought by camel caravan across the desert
in the north, then down the river from Timbuktu to Mopti:
The market in any Malian city is a lively, crowded place, and Mopti was
no different:
Bargaining is an integral part of shopping in the markets. No one
is expected to pay the "first price" and the process of coming to an agreeable
price can be a lively affair in which a rapor is built. The exchange
is valued in itself and will hopefully leave all parties satisfied with
the transaction. My wife seems to particularly good at this process.
Here she is seen discussing the price for the white patterned cloth in
the background; both she and the vendor seemed to be enjoying the exchange.
I did not want to use a flash and disturb their process, but the blurs
tend to capture the liveliness of the discussion!
This kid is fanning the flames in a charcoal heated iron, preparing it
for use by one of the market tailors:
Mopti also has a large Mosque. Those who are lucky enough to have
a home near a tourist attraction can make a little money by charging for
tourists to take pictures from their rooftops. We took one family
up on the offer to take this picture of the Mosque. While up there
I took the opportunity to snap a picture of an adjacent courtyard.
We also visited some nearby villages during a boat trip on the river. This
gentleman was busy weaving mats. And wherever you go in areas frequented
by tourists the kids are sure to follow!
Next stop in the tour:
Timbuktu
Or you can skip to:
Home
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Djenne
Dogon Country
