May is here, bringing with it mild weather, welcome holidays and, above all, Mother’s Day ! On May 25, we celebrate all our mothers: those of the blood and those of the heart, those who raise children alone or in tribes, those who watch over from afar or from above... To all these women, pillars of our lives, healers of sorrows and weavers of bonds, BAAB dedicates this issue.
In it, you’ll find ideas for pleasing them, gourmet recommendations and a thousand and one opportunities to spend quality time with them : exhibitions to discover, a dance or puppet show, a reggae or jazz evening, a botanical art or collage workshop and many other outings... in short, as many possibilities as there are desires for moms !
So enjoy, cherish, share and have a great May ! MAY 2025 #122 A magazine, a website, a community. Fill up on Babi energies !
Managing Director and Publisher : Alice Andrieux
Editor-in-Chief : A. Kouadio
Editorial Secretary General : Gobou Y. F.
Editorial Manager : Anne-Claire Lecouls
Editorial : Anne-Claire Lecouls & Elodie Vermeil
Graphic Design Department Manager : Koimé N’Goran A.
Printing : Graphicolor
MOMS’ GOOD ADDRESSES
Their favorite restaurants in Abidjan
Looking for a little help? Some moms have already told us their favorite places to eat. We have a few ideas, just to inspire you ! >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Because she deserves it every day, and even more so on Mother’s Day, we’ve taken it into our heads to spoil Mom the way should be spoiled. You know the kind of mom who has her own special favorites: a melt-in-the-mouth dessert, a cozy address she loves to escape to, a comforting dish or simple cuisine that brings back
sweet memories. Whether she craves a melting crème brulée, a fresh carpaccio or grilled meat, what she really likes is to be thought of! So we dig deep, we investigate, we make a sneaky reservation in her favorite restaurant... and we prepare a tender surprise for her.
They love Richard’s
A place where the welcome makes all the difference, and where the dishes seduce every time.
RESTAURANT, Zone 3, rue C.Ader, 07 89 31 63 66
Amy Brûlé, 3 children
“What I love about Richard’s is the quality of the service, the cleanliness, the setting, the friendliness, but above all the welcome I receive.”
“I love the variety of dishes, the different atmospheres, and the fact that the team remembers its customers. They make you feel pampered, always looking after your every need.”
His must-tries :
The entrecôte and home fries
The duck breast with its uniquely tasty purée !
Élisabeth Montagne, 1 child
“At Richard’s, what I appreciate is the presence of the owner, who is always attentive to his customers, and the availability of the chef, who takes the time to listen.”
“The welcome is always impeccable, and the team knows how to put you at ease from the very first minutes. You feel expected, recognized, and genuinely well taken care of.”
Her favorite dishes :
Thai salad with prawns
Pork ribs
Beef tartare
RICHARD’S
BAABINES
Their favorite addresses
Places that echo their history and offer them precious moments.
Chrystel Mel epse Tanoh, 3 children
Her favorite : NORIMA
“I love their cuisine, which reminds me of my life in the USA. The taste is authentic.”
“I feel at home here, the service is professional and the staff warm.”
Her favorite dishes :
Asian chicken salad
Shrimp jambalaya
Crab cakes
Norima, 2 Plateaux 07 07 53 53 23
Nathalie Nicolas Raad, 3 children
Her favorite : VILLA VERDE
“Ce lieu me touche, il me rappelle Haïti, mon enfance et les fêtes de famille.”
“Tout est soigné, de la lumière aux assiettes, pour une journée magique.”
“La cuisine est raffinée, les cocktails excellents.”
Her favorite dishes :
Whole burrata, fresh and flavorful
Crispy avocado-tuna pizzetta
Sole meunière
Lobster pasta
Villa Verde, Zone 4 07 11 10 01 11
The pleasure of a moment to yourself...
in their favorite addresses
Nadia OMAÏS, 4 children
Her choice for Mother’s Day : LE COMPTOIR
“I love the chic brasserie atmosphere: elegant, warm, where you feel good. The setting is refined but relaxed, a real cocoon.”
“And then, you can eat there at any time, it’s perfect for a day of shopping and pleasure.”
Delights :
Starter : Snacked scallops or octopus ceviche
Main course : Linguine with prawns or scallop/gambas risotto
Dessert : French toast or crème brûlée... irresistible !
Isabelle Emissah epse Basse, 1 child
Her favorite restaurant : AYOKA
“For its cosy, peaceful setting, and its cuisine, a blend of Asian and African flavors.”
“The welcome is pleasant, the atmosphere friendly, you always have a good time.”
Starter : Carpaccio of marinated fish or gravlax of salmon & avocado tartar
Main course : Ayoka-style lacquered rack of lamb, taro purée with wasabi oil
Dessert : Kinkeliba crème brûlée
His gourmet pleasures : Le Comptoir, Cocody, ITC 27 24 30 38 90 Ayoka, Noom Hotel Abidjan Plateau 05 76 99 98 48
They love Le Barkal
A warm stopover with a world flavour. for a unique Mother’s Day.
Suellen Pinheiro Dutra, 2 children
“Le Barkal isn’t just our favorite restaurant, it’s the kids’ too! We always feel very welcome here.” “I love the originality of the dishes. This FrancoColombian fusion adds a really special touch.”
Her gourmet pleasures :
Grouper ceviche
Scallops & sweet potato purée, Solomito
Émilie Leclercq, 2 children
“Le Barkal has a unique atmosphere: friendly, warm, almost family-like. You feel at home here... but somewhere else.” “Every bite is a sensory experience that invites you to travel.” “Yessica and Philippe always welcome us with a smile, generosity and love of their craft.”
Her favorites :
Tomato burrata and balsamic sauce
Scallops & sweet potato purée
Barkal, Zone 4, rue des Alizés, 07 03 11 00 00
@marcelnasrstudios
Their desires elsewhere...
for a unique Mother’s Day
Magali Vieille, 2 children
HER CHOICE : CHEZ FRANÇOIS
“For Mother’s Day, I love the family atmosphere of this place. François is always considerate, Sylvie takes care of everything, and their son takes over. It’s more than a restaurant, it’s a shared moment.”
“It’s a Parisian brasserie adapted to Ivorian terroir, nestled in greenery, calm and timeless.”
Her favorites :
Duck parmentier
Chicken kebab with Madras curry
Grilled flank steak or sirloin, homesautéed apples
Yasmine Achkar, 2 children
“A warm, gourmet place that makes me feel like I’m in the South of France. The owners are adorable, and the welcome is always perfect.” “I love their specialties, with their blend of freshness, refinement and originality.”
Her delights :
Tomato & Mozzarella with Basil Ice Cream
Vanilla-Roasted Scallops with Black Rice
Homemade Fresh Pasta
To Finish : Chocolate Soufflé
Villa Savoia, Zone 4, bd PG Yacé, 07 79 83 12 23
HER FAVORITE : LA VILLA SAVOIA
Chez François, Bingerville, 05 45 01 44 14
KAJAZOMA CONCEPT BY LIEHN & CO CULINARY ELEGANCE AND ARTISTIC EMOTION
Sheltered from the hustle and bustle of Cocody, behind a warm façade, lies a place apart: Kajazoma Concept. The brainchild of artist Jeanine Zogo, Kajazoma Concept is much more than a restaurant. It’s a breath of fresh air, an invitation to live the moment differently.
We come to escape and to experience a special moment, we come back to savor this #InstantKajazoma again.
Abidjan’s first concept-store, this artrestaurant is a living space, a creative refuge, a vibrant tribute to the richness of African cultures. Revisited vintage furniture, carefully selected art pieces and a Zen atmosphere... every detail tells a story. There are cosy spaces to suit all tastes : under the apatam, in the garden or in one of the air-conditioned rooms. The atmosphere is hushed and lively, punctuated by acoustic sounds, trendy Afro beats and old school hits from the 90s.
Since April 2024, Chef Frédéric Liehn has breathed new life into this iconic address, with the aim of making Kajazoma an
international gourmet stopover: he offers a menu imagined as a food-court. His cuisine is inspired by culinary traditions from all over the world, which he does not fuse, but rather shares in their unique delicacies and emotions.
Here, every dish is an invitation to travel: seafood bowl with coconut cream Tom Kha, beef chichinga, N’dolé with grouper, risotto frutti di mare... All served with precision, in balanced and generous plates, rich in flavors, aromas and textures. Among the chef’s signature dishes is the housesmoked captain’s carpaccio, served with vegetable tagliatelle pickles, seaweed butter and a hint of spicy papaya jam. An absolute must-taste
KAJAZOMA CONCEPT
2 Plateaux, bd des Martyrs kajazoma_concept
By Heyssi
AUTOUR DU CHOCOLAT THE GOURMET TEA TIME YOU’RE SURE TO LOVE !
Noom’s 100% chocolate tea time: an exquisite interlude at the summit of Abidjan.
Every Wednesday from 3 to 6pm
Noom Hotel Abidjan Plateau
Price : 9,000 FCFA / per 05 76 99 98 48
Every Wednesday, chocolate lovers now have a rendezvous on the 7th floor of the Noom Hotel Abidjan Plateau. In the refined setting of the Zo’ Bar, bathed in light and open to the city, let yourself be carried away by a unique taste experience: a tea time entirely dedicated to chocolate, designed to awaken the senses and sweeten your afternoons !
The concept ? A gourmet plate imagined as an ode to cocoa :
- A chocolate-hazelnut tartlet with a delicate crunch,
- A melting truffle that melts under the tongue,
- A soft brownie,
- A chocolate macaroon accompanied by a delicate sweet,
- All accompanied by a hot drink of your choice : coffee, tea, hot chocolate, espresso or cappuccino. What could be better ?
In short, a moment of pure comfort and sweetness to be savored in the Zo’Bar, where contemporary elegance meets a relaxed atmosphere. An unforgettable sensory experience, cradled by a breathtaking view of the city, to add to your weekly schedule or to offer as a gift to celebrate a special moment. Tempted ?
SHOPPING
FOR MOMS
A world of gifts
Fragrances to enhance your home
EVENINGS OF THE MONTH
It’s well known that Abidjan’s nightlife is always rich and lively. Afterworks, concerts, karaoke or parties... every week has its own events and parties. To make sure you don’t miss out on the best of Babi by night, here’s our “little diary” of weekly events. Enjoy it all night long !
Every Thursday Rumble at The Jungle
The Jungle Koumassi, av. P Akato Yao (ex Gabon)
07 06 06 06 20
Every Saturday Zouglou Caviar
Black house
2 Plateaux, Las Palmas
07 88 09 38 09
Every Thursday Afterwork en musique
Kajazoma Concept
2 Plateaux, bd des Martyrs 07 77 31 43 55
Every Saturday Strass et paillettes
Trafic Club
Zone 4, rue D. Marguerite (ex Flemming) 07 05 52 55 62
Every first Friday Karaoké Night
Le Waimea Zone 4, bd PG Yacé (ex Marseille)
07 07 09 53 24
Every Sunday Before Hip-Hop
Le Before Plateau, av. CK Banny (ex Chardy)
07 79 29 99 73
TRIBUTE TO BOB MARLEY
ANNIVERSARY EVENINGS
More than a commemoration, it’s an opportunity to relive the Marley spirit: a blend of unity, resistance and positive vibes.
80 : the age legendary conscientious objector Robert Nesta Marley, alias Bob Marley, would have been if he hadn’t passed away on May 11, 1981, in Miami, USA. He was just 36 and had reached the peak of his art. On the same date every year, reggae fans in the capital and across the country pay tribute to him and celebrate the memory of this roots giant, peace activist and emblematic figure of the Rasta movement. Special evenings, live concerts and DJ sets will be on the program this May to symbolically blow out his 80 candles. Here’s what’s on... If you’re a fan, don’t miss this opportunity to remember him !
Where ?
Menekré Legend
Riviera, Route d’Attoban
May 10, 2025 07 07 73 45 99
AZK Live
Cocody Blockauss
May 10-11, 2025 05 05 00 27 63
Lagune live Quartier France, Grand-Bassam
May 11, 2025 07 08 88 57 15
Reggae House By VL Yamoussoukro, quartier 100 logements
May 9, 10 and 11, 2025 07 07 80 57 78
By Heyssi
GAME NIGHTS
JOIN IN THE FUN !
Whether you’re a strategist at heart, a quizmaster, a fan of fun games or just here for the fun, there’s always a place for you at the table.
Want to let go of your screens, laugh and create memorable moments with friends? Game nights are the perfect remedy to the classic “resto-bar-dodo” routine. In Abidjan, the trend is soaring: from play cafés and pop-up events to themed evenings, there’s no shortage of opportunities to play, challenge yourself and, above all... have a great time! Here are our top addresses.
LES GOETHE GBORO NIGHTS
It’s the must-attend afterwork for gaming fans in Abidjan, and it’s happening at the Goethe Institut! Over the course of an evening, immerse yourself in the world of gaming, take part in tournaments, try out new board games, karaoke and even a 3D printing workshop! All in all, it’s a convivial evening in a relaxed, goodnatured atmosphere.
May 23, 2025 at 6:30pm
Bibliothèque du Goethe-Institut
Cocody Mermoz 25 22 00 88 99
THE QUIZZINE
The Quizzine team puts you in a good mood, plays fair, answers a number of questions on a variety of themes (music, gastronomy, blind test....) and competes with other teams for the chance to win the jackpot! A meeting that combines general knowledge games, fun, competition and networking over drinks and nibbles. Get ready to revise !
One Saturday a month
Riviera, near the US Embassy 01 01 00 10 19 / 07 07 80 22 52
La Quizzine
LE REPAIRE 225
Evenings every 2 weeks
Big Open Game Night on May 10, 2025 at 9pm
Registration link on 05 46 87 79 79 (WhatsApp)
It’s the new meeting place for board game and cocktail enthusiasts in Abidjan ! Created by Eurielle N’zi, from Côte d’Ivoire, and Aldrick Constale, from Guyana, this warm and welcoming place fuses cultures, laughter and good humor around a simple objective: play until you’re tired ! The program includes games of all kinds : classic werewolves, African werewolves, Skyjo, mime games, card games, mood games... in short, strategies, challenges, good humor... and of course, cocktails to spice up the evening !
WEREWOLF AND GROUP GAMES
Mystery, strategy, bluffing and betrayal... you’re familiar with the werewolf game ! Every Friday, immerse yourself in the atmosphere at the Enigma escape game and enjoy a playful experience where every glance becomes a suspect! Evenings full of twists and turns that you’re sure to love, soon to be complemented by Quizz, Taboo and Fun game evenings.
Fridays 4-6pm for youngsters and -8pm for adults
Enigma, Zone 4, rue des Majorettes 07 88 02 00 00
Riviera Palmeraie
By Heyssi
FROM THE STAGE
4 CONCERTS NOT TO BE MISSED !
Looking for some live music ? This month, Abidjan is on fire with a selection of unmissable concerts ! Here are 4 dates to mark in your diaries.
Ste Milano
Le 3 mai 2025 à 12h au stade FHB
07 05 11 63 25
Le 31 mai 2025 à 20h au Wafou 05 54 11 82 12
Le 10 mai 2025 au Palais de la Culture
07 05 11 63 25
Le 31 mai 2025 à 16h au Palais de la Culture 07 77 62 35 71
Didi B
Tyrane Mondeny
Vitale
By Heyssi
REGGAE WOMEN FESTIVAL
LOVE MAMA AFRICA !
On Saturday, May 24, 2025, AZK Productions puts the spotlight on reggae women. For the 7th edition of this now unmissable women’s show, four women will be thrilling audiences in red, yellow and green. Here’s the lowdown.
4 women and lots of good vibes to pay tribute to Moms !
The line-up is 100% female and 100% committed! Artists who embody the diversity and richness of the female reggae scene in Côte d’Ivoire, each bringing her own unique touch to celebrate mothers at this special festival.
Well-known to regulars on Abidjan’s underground dancehall scene, Seul Dieu Mariam came to reggae for love. Known for her spiritual and committed lyrics, but also for her energy, she is affectionately nicknamed the “Daishi of Ivory Coast reggae”. She is on the move and has a strong
fan base behind her, which crosses borders. Alongside her, Sistah Kadi, winner of AZK Productions’ Reggaeheartbeat challenge in 2021, has made a name for herself with her single “No women no cry”, a Malinké cover of Bob Marley’s song, which she is sure to share with reggae lovers during this stopover at AZK. Last but not least, Tania and Zélia, with their dynamic stage presence and powerful messages, will add their touch of conviction and commitment to this fine program. Calling all fans!
REGGAE WOMEN 7
Espace AZK Live, Cocody Blockhauss Saturday, May 24, 2025 from 8pm
Free admission 05 05 00 27 63 AZK Live
SOIRÉES SBK
THREE LETTERS TO GET YOU MOVING !
Immerse yourself in Abidjan’s SBK nights, with their warm bodies and bewitching rhythms ! >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba. Three atmospheres, three energies and a phenomenon that’s growing in strength, driven by styles that make hearts vibrate and hips sway! Between the sensuality of Kizomba, the sweetness of Bachata and the rhythmic madness of Salsa, SBK evenings have become a must for lovers of dance and warm vibes. Whether on the rooftop, in the open air or in a more intimate spot, Abidjan’s SBK scene captivates with its energy, diversity and accessibility. Here, there’s no need for a high level of proficiency: you come for the feeling, the human connections and the music that speaks to the body. Want to give it a try? Here are our recos !
El Padrino
Fridays, 9pm. Salsa evening with Cubafrik. Plateau, bd lagunaire.
2Kz evening with Dança No Pé - Abdu-Lindo. Zone 4, av. A Sawadogo (ex P. Langevin)
05 54 54 54 50
Hôtel Azalaï
Wednesdays at 7pm.
SBK classes and evenings with Oriba Dance Academy. Bd FHB (ex VGE)
07 57 44 89 48
Les Terrasses de Bonoumin
Thursdays at 7pm. Classes and After Sa’kiz with Danca.no.pe. Riviera, Bonoumin 07 03 02 50 64
The Jungle
Wednesdays at 7pm.
SBK evening with Abidjan Danse. Koumassi, av. P Akato Yao (ex Gabon)
07 06 06 06 20
La Louisette
Saturdays at 10pm. Club latin SBK. Riviera 4, M’Badon 01 60 74 48 87
La porte d’Abidjan
Fridays at 9pm. Latin Night with Salsa Fun Club. Angré 8e Tranche 07 79 35 35 03
https://lehub.online
GALLERY TOUR
MAY EXHIBITIONS
« DAYEGUE »
Adouble exhibition by artist Sadikou Oukpedjo, who, through drawings, paintings, and sculptures, presents a deeply personal body of work, directly connected to his personal life and his questions about humanity. Until July 19, 2025, at Fondation Donwahi and Galerie Cécile Fakhoury (Cocody).
« LA TERRE N’A QU’UN SOLEIL »
The emblematic series Alba’hian (the first light of day in Agni) by Ivorian photographer Joana Choumali: photos taken between 5 and 7 a.m., which she embellishes with collages, embroidery, and montages to create delicate canvases imbued with reverie. From May 15 to July 25, 2025, at Galerie Farah Fakhri (Plateau).
« D’ICI ET D’AILLEURS, AU
CŒUR DES FEMMES »
An exhibition by the griotic painter Abolikan, whose canvases, constructed according to the principle of scenic division, interlock to create a single painting. From May 22 to June 7, 2025, at Galerie Houkamy Guyzagn (Riviera 2).
« KEHOU CHANLLEMENTLA MÉTAMORPHOSE »
The work of three artists – Mamadou Ballo, Doubbin Jonas, and Laurence Chauvin-Buthaud –and photographers Paps Touré and Nuits Balnéaires, whose approach is based on the use of materials, symbols of our unbridled consumption and our complex relationship with ecology. Until May 9, 2025, at Galerie Studer (Cocody).
« LE JOURNAL D’ADONON »
Winner of the Best Sculptor Award at the Dakar Biennale in 2022, Beninese visual artist Achille Adonon invites us to discover the journal of Nanyé Adonon. A stance against amnesia, it explores ghosts, feminine memories, and the poetic interpretation of the history of our contemporary societies. Until May 17, 2025, at Labaraque (Riviera Jardin).
« DES RACINES AUX BRANCHES »
Acelebration of the diversity and journey of Ivorian artists represented by Walls House of Art. Through a selection of works, it illustrates the gallery’s evolution, highlighting both the figures who have accompanied it since its inception and the more recent talents who enrich its influence. Until May 28, 2025, at Walls, House of Art (Zone 4).
« MASONN »
The exhibition explores vernacular architecture and mystical realism in the Black Atlantic, shaped by centuries of transatlantic trade. It reveals the transmission of indigenous and ancestral knowledge through habitat, ritual, and spirituality. Initiated by artist Wendie Zahibo, this transmedia and transnational project is enriched by the collaboration of Keren Lasme, Anaïs Cheleux, Alejandra Loreto, Jeebrahil, and RD/WL. Until May 10, 2025, at the Institut français (Plateau).
« INSPIRATIONS KOUROUMA »
Atribute to the writer Ahmadou Kourouma (1927-2003) through his written works. Several painters and comic book artists will participate in the exhibition, drawing inspiration from his bibliography. Until May 21, 2025, at La Rotonde des Arts (Plateau).
« TOMBOLO »
Created by designer-researcher Caroline Grellier, Tombolos is a research program in design and decolonial ecology, inspired by Serge Hélénon’s Ivorian experience with the École Négro-Caraïbe. Deployed between Côte d’Ivoire and the West Indies, it aims to free design from Eurocentric canons, through an approach that values knowledge and practices around materials, in this case the transformation of the banana tree. From May 22 to June 16, 2025, at the Institut français (Plateau).
«
FRAGMENTS
D’HISTOIRES »
Through his collages, artist Georges Arthur Kablan Coffi deconstructs and reinvents fragments of images, words, and colors to give rise to new perspectives. Until June 15, 2025, at the Hôtel Tiama (Plateau).
« RÉMINISCENCES ET ASSEMBLAGES
The artist Wanoumi A. presents a series of works that explore memory, materiality, and reconstruction through assemblages of found objects. His work draws on history, traditions, and lived experience to create unique compositions, witnesses to the past and present. Until June 15, 2025, at Galerie Sankonian (Abobo).
« UN MONDE À PRENDRE »
After several years of exploration, inner journeys, and artistic evolution, the artist Barnabe returns to Abidjan with a new, intimate, and powerful offering. An invitation to enter his world, that of the Barnies, the characters he has brought to life since his beginnings. From May 15, 2025, at Galerie Studer (Cocody).
« AU-DELÀ DU VISIBLE »
Through his works, Alberic Kouassi transports you to a world where the tangible meets the intangible, where every detail reveals an unexpected story. A unique artistic journey dedicated to the invisible. From May 8 to June 7, 2025, at Galerie Kynome (2 Plateaux).
2”, 150x150cm
« L’ÉCHO DES MURS »
An exhibition in partnership with the Babi Streets Art collective, celebrating graffiti as a contemporary form of urban storytelling, imbued with social, historical, and aesthetic meanings. Until May 24, 2025, at the BJKD Foundation (Riviera 3).
Communion
By Heyssi
HUMANITUDE
JEAN-DANIEL ROHRER EXHIBITS
AT GALERIE EUREKA
@ stephane Jourdain
Jean-Daniel Rohrer offers a sensitive and open body of work, where humanism, otherness, and artistic exploration converge at the heart of a vibrant cultural exchange..
Canadian-Swiss
artist Jean-Daniel Rohrer presents Humanitude, a series of 50 works created during his three-month artist residency in Abidjan, which began in February. This project, developed in collaboration with Galerie Eureka, seeks to build bridges between contemporary African art and Rohrer’s artistic approach, which is deeply inspired by the continent’s forms and philosophies. The residency offered the artist a chance to engage in dialogue with local creators, enrich his perspective through meaningful exchanges, and open the door to potential collaborations.
“Art is a conversation. Each work I create is a source of reflection, an invitation to dream, and to reconnect with what binds us to one another.”
An internationally renowned visual artist, Jean-Daniel Rohrer is known for his distinctive work blending traditional and contemporary techniques. Born in Switzerland in 1960 and now based in Canada, he has developed a style influenced by North America’s cultural richness and his European roots.
Trained with rigor, Rohrer has crafted a personal artistic language, drawing inspiration from masters such as Paul Klee, Antoni Tàpies, and Robert Rauschenberg. His works, situated between abstraction and figuration, are characterized by layered materials—paint, paper, found objects—and a bold use of color, sometimes vivid, sometimes contemplative. His work also carries strong symbolism, drawing from history and cultures to construct deep, multi-layered visual narratives.
A passionate globetrotter, Rohrer draws vital elements for his creative process from his travels across Europe, Africa, and Latin America. This global openness feeds into his art, which explores themes of identity, memory, uprooting, and humanity’s relationship with nature. For Rohrer, art is a bridge between people, a universal language that serves dialogue and transmission.
In April 2025, he reaches a new milestone by exhibiting at Galerie Eureka as part of Abidjan Art Week. This show—his first in Ivory Coast and a first for a Canadian-Swiss artist—is poised to be a significant moment of cultural exchange and artistic discovery.
Until May 31, 2025
Galerie Eureka Zone 4, Rue M. Sampa (formerly Marconi) 07 09 37 89 01
Allégorie 120x150cm
Mémoire 120x90cm
By Heyssi
DIALOGUE DES RACINES
WHEN DANCE BRINGS CULTURES TOGETHER
In June 2024, the Ivorian company Dumanlé, led by choreographer Hermann Nikoko, shone at the opening show of the Festival Gnaoua et Musiques du Monde in Essaouira, Morocco. A stage shared with Spanish artists Nino de los Reyes and Sergio Martinez (flamenco), and Moroccan master Mâalam Hassan Boussou (gnawa music).
A lively, powerful, rooted and universal show.
The result of this collaboration is an original creation: “Dialogue des racines”. A choreographic and musical project that brings together three powerful cultural practices, all listed as UNESCO intangible heritage: Zaouli from Côte d’Ivoire, Flamenco from Spain and Gnawa from Morocco, a spiritual music characterized by rhythmic, hypnotic melodies played on a skin-covered lute.
The aim ? To create a common artistic language by blending the rhythms, gestures and symbolism of each tradition. Supported by original music, the performance explores
the deep links between these cultures, while celebrating their diversity.
With “Dialogue des racines”, presented this month at the Institut français and the Palais de la Culture, the Dumanlé company is pursuing its commitment to the professionalization of local dances, the promotion of cultural heritage and the strengthening of cultural exchanges between Africa and the rest of the world. A true artistic odyssey, the show offers a unique experience that transcends borders and traditions. Not to be missed !
DIALOGUE DES RACINES
May 23, 2025 at 8 pm at the IFCI and May 24, 2025 at 4 pm at the Palais de Culture
Tickets available at INSAAC and CNAC de Treichville. Réservations : 07 00 37 05 88
BING’ART
BINGERVILLE
BECOMES AN OPEN-AIR GALLERY !
The idea ? To offer new visibility to local creation and bring art closer to everyday With BING’ART, art becomes
Since April 16, 2025, and for one month, art takes to the streets with the BING’ART project, an open-air exhibition that transforms Bingerville into a true urban museum. Along 600 meters of the Abatta axis, 10 works by David-Josué Oyoua, an Ivorian digital artist, will be displayed on billboards for a 15-minute artistic stroll accessible to all.
life. No more closed gallery walls: here, art invites itself into the city, around the corner of a walk, a journey, or a curious glance. The project, led by Abdoulaye Meité (Meité Group), in partnership with Kultur Community, a media outlet dedicated to the contemporary art scene, aims to promote Ivorian talent, enhance unused urban spaces, create a direct link between art and the public, and position Bingerville as a dynamic cultural hub. This initiative will regularly feature an Ivorian artist and we invite you to discover it !
ARTIST OF THE MONTH
David-Josué Oyoua is a self-taught Ivorian digital artist. He combines photography, photomontage, and matte painting to create works inspired by African culture and classical painting. Influenced by the Renaissance, he reinterprets historical and spiritual narratives with a contemporary aesthetic. Among his notable projects are Afro Nativity, Queen Pokou, Baoule Exodus et The Sacrifice of Isaac. His art blends tradition and modernity to tell powerful visual stories.
bing_art_
By Heyssi
SILA 2025
THE BIG BOOK EVENT IN ABIDJAN
A Celebration of Books, a Crossroads of Cultures.
From May 6 to 10, 2025, the Salon International du Livre d’Abidjan (SILA) returns for its 15th edition, themed « Livre et Racines ». The event will honor African and Afro-descendant literature, exploring the connections between writing, memory, and transmission.
This edition also celebrates two iconic anniversaries: the 20th anniversary of the series “Aya de Yopougon” by Marguerite Abouet, the guest of honor, and the 20th anniversary of “Les Coups de la vie” by Anzata Ouattara, a key figure in Ivorian popular literature. It also opens up to the francophone territories overseas: Haiti, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Guyana, and Réunion, affirming the desire to build literary bridges between Africa and its diasporas. Finally, SILA 2025, like every edition, highlights
an Ivorian region: this year, the Cavally region and its rich culture will be showcased.
Highlights include : conferences, masterclasses, youth activities, exhibitions, meetings with writers, the Choix Goncourt Côte d’Ivoire ceremony, the SILA’Legend (recognition of literary figures), and the SILA’Business, a bridge between francophone and anglophone markets... a rich and accessible program for everyone, whether you are readers, professionals, authors, or enthusiasts. The fair will also pay tribute to African women publishers, unveil a study on the book economy in Africa, and welcome Christiane Taubira, a literary and political figure.
SILA 15
May 6 to 10, 2025, Parc des Expositions silacotedivoire.org SILA Côte d’Ivoire
LE BEST-OFF DU MOIS
DRÔLES DES FEMMES
PARC DES EXPOSITIONS
HUMOR
GONDWANA CLUB PULLMAN HÔTEL
COMEDY SHOW
Abidjan’s first comedy club, with shows mixing the most famous comedians with the young up-and-coming scene.
May 2 and 30 2025 at 9pm at Pullman Hôtel Abidjan 05 04 00 66 66
The ultimate celebration of women and female talent ! An evening of laughter and good humor !
May 10, 2025 at 6pm at the Parc des expositions 207 87 70 07 07
AMEE SLAM - LE WAFOU
Amee Slam, the emblematic figure of African slam, celebrates 15 years of dedication to the art of the word. A unique event combining poetry, music and emotion.
May 10, 2025 at 8pm at Le Wafou 05 66 46 90 48
OZAKI - LA FABRIQUE CULTURELLE
CONCERT
The rising star of Ivorian rap, hailing from Grand-Bassam, invites you to a live musical experience! With his infectious rhythm, impactful lyrics, and original melodies, Ozaki promises to captivate his audience.
May 10, 2025 at La Fabrique Culturelle 07 07 88 90 08
LE JOUR DU CLASICO - PALAIS DE LA CULTURE
TRIBUTE TO STEVE GADD INSTITUT FRANÇAIS
The very first one-man show by Team Segano. A unique atmosphere where humor and football collide !
May 11, 2025 at 12 PM at the Palais de la Culture 01 0171 43 78
An evening dedicated to Steve Gadd, the legendary jazz drummer known for his unique style and extraordinary musicality. The talented Ivorian drummer Israël Boka will pay tribute to him.
May 30, 2025 at 8 PM at the Institut français 07 88 65 60 76
DE APOLLON À MOI
LA FABRIQUE CULTURELLE
SLAM
“De Apollon à moi” celebrates the power of words and the importance of giving everyone a voice. Inviting the audience to feel, reflect, and reconnect with the beauty of words, this show offers a vibrant mix of art and performance, bridging the past and the present.
May 30, 2025 at 8 PM at La Fabrique Culturelle 05 04 00 66 66
CYKO SAX - GOETHE INSTITUT
CONCERT
A concert by saxophonist Cyko Sax as part of the Codijazz scene, brought to you by the Codijazz Collective and dedicated to afrojazz-world-pop fusion music and modern music inspired by traditional sounds.
May 30, 2025 at 8:30 PM at the Goethe Institut 25 22 00 88 99
MAGNIFICAT DE BACH - PALAIS DE LA CULTURE
SINGING
The Lyric Choir of Côte d’Ivoire invites you to experience an exceptional moment where the power of lyrical singing combines with the beauty of classical and contemporary music. A captivating performance full of emotion and surprises, not to be missed !
June 7, 2025 at 7 PM at the Palais de la Culture 07 58 02 09 95
NINA TORRES MOVIE OF THE MONTH
Nina Torres, a brilliant and adored TV presenter, embodies the image of a well-adjusted, fulfilled woman on screen every day. But behind this veneer lies an entirely different reality: single and fragile, she has invented a perfect married life to feed her popularity. On her birthday, her world is turned upside down. In the middle of a live show, she receives a chilling phone call from a psychopath named Sébastien, who threatens to attack her family and crew if she doesn’t do as he says. Trapped in front of millions of viewers, Nina’s lies are exposed.
BAAB talks about it...
Produced by Kadhy Touré and directed by Ray Reboul, Nina Torres is an intense psychological drama that explores the backstage world of media power and the contradictions of an Ivorian society fascinated by image and success. The film follows Nina, an adored TV presenter, whose supposedly perfect life hides deep wounds, silent violence and lies constructed to please a demanding, patriarchal society. The plot, centered on a live TV broadcast that degenerates into a nightmare, navigates between tension, suspense and emotion to become a breathless huis clos, where every minute counts and every truth revealed brings her a little closer to survival... or chaos. Revealing the human frailty behind the mask of perfection, it offers a reflection on truth, redemption and the courage to face one’s demons, in a world where the image is king. Available in Majestic cinemas from May 2, 2025.
Download the App to see schedules and prices
CINEMA AT IFCI
FANON by Jean-Claude
Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at 7pm.
ERNEST COLE, PHOTOGRAPHE by Raoul Peck.
Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at 7pm.
Plateau, av. Franchet d’Esperey 27 20 20 40 60 Institut Français de Côte d’Ivoire institutfrançais.ci
L’AMOUR OUF by Gilles Lellouche.
Wednesday, May 28, 2025 at 7pm.
To find out dates and times subscribe to the IFCI WhatsApp channel on 07 08 81 06 68.
Admission : 3,000 FCFA ; reduced admission : 2,000 FCFA (library members, under-18s and students under-30s).
Barny.
HLM PUSSY by Nora El Hourch. Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at 7pm.
NUANCES
A FESTIVAL TO GIVE TEENAGERS A VOICE
“Nuances” is an artistic, social and educational project that affirms a strong conviction: teenagers have things to say, and it’s time to listen to them!
Adolescence is much more than a period of crisis or rebellion. It’s a time of upheaval, affirmation, doubt and discovery. Too often confined by stereotypes, teenagers struggle to find the space to express themselves fully. In response to this need, “Nuances” was born, a first-of-its-kind festival in Côte d’Ivoire entirely dedicated to teenagers.
@Loïs Paul
Imagined as a space for expression, creation and dialogue, “Nuances” gives a voice to young people and promotes their practices, far from judgments and clichés. For several weeks, students from three schools in Abidjan - both Ivorian and French - took part in off-site artistic workshops: dance, fashion design, music, podcasting and video. Under the guidance of renowned artists such as Lafalaise Dion, Nadia Beugré and Youssoupha, these teenagers were able to explore the big questions that run through them: friendship, identity, the body, commitment, resilience...
The festival also features a photo competition on the theme of “Nuances”, inviting young people to capture the complexity of their age through their own personal eyes. Their photos will be exhibited at the IFCI from May 14 to 17.
“Nuances” is also a program open to all :
- The film “HLM Pussy” on May 14: an apt look at digital justice and the voices of young girls; - The Alté Club Teens concert, on May 15: this evening will highlight the new generation of musical artists and young talents who will unveil their creations worked on in the workshops;
- The grand finale, on May 17: a unique collective performance at the Institut français de Côte d’Ivoire, where the teenagers who took part in the workshops will show you their world.
KIDS FARMING
LEARN, PLANT, GROW !
A reconnection to the essentials : the earth, nature and shared time. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Looking for an original, educational and meaningful parent-child activity? Discover Kids Farming, a fun and immersive workshop where young and old reconnect with nature, the earth and true values!
In an increasingly connected world, it’s essential to offer sensory, physical and educational experiences to our youngest visitors. Kids Farming is the perfect opportunity to get your hands in the soil, discover the cycle of plant life and understand where food comes from, while sharing a real moment of complicity as a family.
Children aged 3 and over can take part, accompanied by at least one parent. Together, you’ll explore the farm, touch the
earth, smell the plants, meet the animals, and take part in sowing and planting workshops. Everyone will leave with a little pot to cultivate at home, to follow the evolution of their seed day after day. This unique event is hosted by Willy and Leslie, two enthusiasts who enthusiastically pass on the values of hard work, patience and respect for nature.
The next edition will take place at the Olee Fresh farm in Bingerville, with a special program focused on discovery, the senses and the pleasure of learning while having fun. Don’t miss it !
KIDS
L’ATELIER DU BONHEUR
«
DUO MAGNIFIQUE »
THE PARENT-CHILD APPOINTMENT OF THE MONTH
A moment of complicity and happiness for parents and children. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
L’ATELIER DU BONHEUR
Saturday, May 31, 2025 from 9:30am to 11am. French Institute, Plateau
Free admission with registration at mediatheque@institutfrancais.ci
What if you took the time to share a bubble of softness and complicity with your child ? The “Duo magnifique” happiness workshop is designed for parents who want to share a special moment with their child. It’s an enchanted interlude to strengthen the unique bond that unites you, nurture the relationship, create bonds and happy memories, in a caring, joyful setting filled with love.
For 1h30, you’ll share playful and emotional activities as a duo, to get to know each other better, feel positive emotions, develop mutual trust and live in the present moment. Joy, tenderness, gratitude, creativity and sincere exchange will be at the heart of this workshop, designed as a cocoon of shared happiness. A unique experience to create strong, positive memories with your child, and to inspire you to continue at home.
“Together, let’s ignite the spark... the one that illuminates bonds, grows trust and makes happiness radiate in the hearts of young and old alike !”
Who is it for ? A parent (mom or dad) accompanied by their child (aged 6-10). In the case of siblings, it’s ideal to take the workshop separately with each child, for a 100% dedicated moment.
Jessica Piccolo Brunelli, founder of the “Light up your happiness” initiative and the CI Happiness Workshops. Author of the book “La magie du bonheur”, published by Hybrid. Professional coach specializing in applied positive psychology and emotional intelligence.
By Heyssi
SHH! HERE WE WRITE... AND READ
2 CONCEPTS TO DISCOVER IN ABIDJAN
In a world saturated with notifications, noise and “content to be consumed quickly”, two silent bubbles are slowly making their mark, in the world and in Abidjan! Silent Book Club and Shut Up & Write are simple, inclusive and resolutely human concepts that put the essential back at the heart of our concerns. Sharing a moment of silence while reading and writing. We tell you all about it.
Whether you’re a pen or a page, a solitary dreamer or a passionate reader, here we slow down the pace to let the words speak.
SHUT UP & WRITE !
Launched in Abidjan a few weeks ago, Shut Up & Write is a silent writing event that has already won over a small community of enthusiasts. The concept is simple and effective: meet at a specific time (currently Saturday afternoons at the Bushman Café), say hello, start a timer, then... silence. Everyone writes, at their own pace, on their own project: novel, memoir, article, screenplay, poem or even a forgotten e-mail!
No pressure, no reading aloud, just a moment of collective concentration. Then there’s a break to exchange ideas, if you like, and why not start a second session? The objective? To provide a supportive framework, break the solitude of writing, and above all help overcome the notorious procrastination. Because yes, writing in a group, even without speaking, boosts motivation. A wonderful adventure of sharing !
SHUT UP & WRITE ABIDJAN
Saturday at 2pm at the Bushman
To register, scan me
SILENT BOOK CLUB ABIDJAN
Would you like to join a book club, but are put off by compulsory reading and the pressure to finish your book on time? Welcome to Silent Book Club Abidjan, one of the first 10 Silent Book Clubs on the African continent. Since October 2024, reading enthusiasts have been meeting at the Goethe-Institut to take part in this unique library event.
What is the Silent Book Club ?
Born in San Francisco, the Silent Book Club movement has spread to almost 300 cities worldwide. It’s a literary concept as simple as it is ingenious: reading together... in silence. No pressure, no book reviews, no obligation to talk if you don’t feel like itjust a moment to yourself, surrounded by
equally passionate readers. Whether you like crime fiction, comics, romance, poetry, horror or fantasy - and in any language, in print, digital or even audiobook format. All are welcome!
Make yourself comfortable in the Goethe Institut library and read for an hour or more. Those who wish to do so can discuss their reading, exchange tips and recommendations, with no strings attached. Just for fun !
ABIDJAN SILENT BOOK CLUB
Goethe Institut, Cocody Mermoz 1 time a month, 6-8pm Program on www.goethe.de/ins/ci
By Heyssi
BOTANICAL ARTS
AN ACTIVITY TO DISCOVER
At the crossroads of art and science, botanical illustration celebrates the beauty and complexity of the plant world. Through precise drawings and delicate watercolors, each plant becomes a subject of study and a source of wonder.
Take the time to observe every detail: magnifying glass around your neck, pencil and notebook in hand, plunge into the world of plants to better understand their secrets and reveal their unique beauty.
Want to discover nature in a different way ? Join Sens et Matières’ botanical arts workshop : an immersive encounter at the Jardin botanique de Bingerville to observe, understand and illustrate the flowers and plants around you. Using pencils, watercolors and a little patience, you’ll learn to capture the poetry of a leaf, the elegance of a stem or the delicacy of a petal.
SENS ET MATIÈRES
Every 2nd Saturday of the month from 2pm to 5pm. Materials supplied 07 05 46 43 58 sensetmatieres
No need to be an artist or botanist ! This workshop is for anyone curious about life and beautiful things. In a small group, in a friendly atmosphere, you’ll be guided step by step as you explore this rigorous yet contemplative discipline. Exploring the richness of our environment also means learning to better understand, respect and draw inspiration from it.
CUT OUT & COLLAGES
A MOMENT OF CREATION, SHARING AND POETRY
On Saturday May 24, 2025, on the occasion of Mother’s Day, Calebasse Création opens its doors to you for a unique workshop: Instant Cut out & Collages, led by artist Nathalie Eben Moussi, aka NAEM.
In this introductory art-therapy workshop, you’ll be invited to freely explore your imagination by playing with shapes, colors, textures, words... You’ll be given a surprise pack to awaken your creativity and guide you through an artistic process combining cutting, collage, gentle introspection and joyful fantasy. You don’t have to be an artist: all that counts is your desire to create.
This creative moment is also a time for yourself - or to share with other women - in a caring, fun and inspiring environment. The objective? Introduce you to the techniques of artistic collage, while treating yourself to a Mother’s Day gift full of meaning and sweetness. You’ll leave with your own unique, personalized work of art.
The world of NAEM, a young creation combining drawings and collages, draws its inspiration from femmage, a feminine art based on recuperation, everyday life and free self-expression. Between dreamlike, humorous, visually poetic and surreal, her works celebrate freedom, intuition and the power of the imagination.
INSTANT CUT OUT & COLLAGES
Saturday, May 24, 10am to 1pm
Calebasse Créations. Riviera 3 07 79 78 82 81
Reconnect with your imagination and let your creativity flow through artistic collage.
LE TAMBOUR DE L’UNION
THE MAY FAMILY OUTING
On May 10, the Académie Ivoire Marionnettes opens the doors to an enchanting universe where puppet strings weave deep, poetic stories. Make way for “Le tambour de l’union”, a show at the crossroads of African tales, popular wisdom and stage magic.
A moment suspended between laughter, reflection and tradition. Not to be missed !
Imagine a time when humans lived in harmony with animals, guided by a sacred drum, a symbol of peace and brotherhood. But when a proud king trades this precious drum for an illusion, the kingdom descends into chaos: conflict, jealousy, war... humans and beasts are torn apart. Fortunately, Sibiri the Hunter rises to right the wrong. He embarks on a perilous journey to the ghost kingdom to retrieve the drum. And thanks to his courage, peace is reborn.
The talented Adjibadjibanain, a mythical figure with a soft, powerful voice, embodies this journey. With humor and humanity, he
guides young and old through this symbolic epic. His face appears in the palm of a hand: a poetic reminder that unity is strength, like the five fingers of an outstretched hand.
Designed for ages 5 and up, this show combines humor, song and string puppets in a warm, immersive atmosphere. More than just a tale, it’s also a lesson in life. A reminder that unity and wisdom must always prevail over ego. The perfect opportunity for a family outing that’s both entertaining and educational.
An island suspended in the middle of the lagoon, between yesterday and tomorrow.
Somewhere between Dabou and GrandLahou, nestled in the heart of the Ebrié lagoon, lies Tiagba: a village halfway between tradition and modernity, and the only remaining inhabited lake town in Côte d’Ivoire. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers a complete change of scenery, far from the hustle and bustle of Abidjan, and a rare immersion in an ancestral way of life.
A
destination
to be earned
Tiagba is not a stopover you reach by chance. To get there, you have to follow a bumpy 20-kilometre track from Dabou, crossing rubber plantations and palm groves, asking the rare passers-by for directions... Until the road comes to a screeching halt at the edge of the lagoon. To continue, you’ll have to take a pirogue! There’s always someone to take you on board. Direct crossing or around the island. It’s up to you! In any case, it’s from the water that you can best appreciate the uniqueness of this village.
A village of singular beauty
From the pirogue, the panorama is sublime: straw-roofed houses on stilts, red laterite buildings, a few modern structures (built by the “successful”), and children laughing in the lagoon. There are hardly any engines here. The village seems to rest on the water, like a little world of its own, suspended between sky and lagoon. Formerly known as “Goose Island”, Tiagba Island extends over some 150 hectares, much of which remains wild.
The inhabitants, the Ahizis (or Aïzi), live mainly from fishing and agriculture. Cassava, processed into attiéké, is one of the main food crops grown on the continent. A local legend has it that, in the past, every newborn child was plunged into the lagoon: if it floated, it was promised fishing; if it sank, it was promised land! Fortunately, all were rescued without delay !
Immerse yourself in local life
Tourists are few and far between, so as soon as you arrive in the village, expect to be greeted by a horde of curious, laughing children who will follow you in a merry procession throughout your visit. The village has no real tourist infrastructure: yet every inhabitant is ready to become your impromptu guide, leading you from the church of Saint-Jacques, perched on a hillock, to the old carved-stone school, via houses on stilts, wells, fish-smoking workshops and small maquis.
Tiagba has a population of around 8,000 and is home to an astonishing diversity of religions: Catholics, Protestants, Baptists, Muslims, Jehovah’s Witnesses and Papa Nouveau followers all live here in harmony. Electricity has been available since 1979, and despite the modest living conditions, life is vibrant and peaceful.
@Le voyage du calao
Tiagba, living memory and uncertain future
Tiagba is also a story. The story of a people displaced by war. The village’s name comes from the word “TiagAba”, meaning “those driven from their homes by war”. The story goes that the Aïzi, originally from central-western Côte d’Ivoire, fled conflict to settle on this island in search of peace.
Today, the rural exodus is forcing more and more inhabitants to leave the island for the mainland, not least because of frequent flooding. Houses on stilts, once the norm, are gradually being abandoned. Yet Tiagba is no museum. It’s a living village, whose traditions deserve to be preserved and shared. The village could become once again what it was during the Houphouët era: an unmissable stopover for all lovers of nature, authenticity and genuine encounters. So don’t hesitate! Tiagba is well worth a visit.
PASSIONATELY CI ALONG
THE NERO, GRAND-BEREBY
By Jacques Allatin
“A passionate traveler, I capture the beauty of the Ivory Coast through my adventures. Explore and collaborate with me on unique projects !”
