In Abidjan, every month brings its share of surprises… and November is no exception !
The capital and its many talents outdo themselves once
again to deliver a particularly captivating lineup. Between the long-awaited Africa Foto Fair at the Maison de l’Art de Bassam and in Abidjan, revealing the powerful perspectives of photographers from across the continent; the DJ sets lighting up the nights; and the 14th African Archery Championship, the city proves once again that it knows how to combine art, sport, and joy with flair.
Add to that a wave of inspiring exhibitions, creative evenings, and local initiatives connecting Abidjan to the world — and it’s impossible to get bored ! BAAB is proud to be the echo of all this energy. You’ll find plenty of highlights in these pages… and for everything else, visit our website! Information is updated constantly so you won’t miss a thing from the best of Babi !
In November, Abidjan moves and we love it !
Managing Director and Publisher : Alice Andrieux
Editor-in-Chief : A. Kouadio
Editorial Secretary General : Gobou Y. F.
Editorial Manager : Anne-Claire Lecouls
Digital and Partnerships Manager : Sylvain Andrieux
Graphic Design Department Manager : Koimé N’Goran A.
Printing : Graphicolor
THAI ESCAPE THE FLAVORS OF THE “LAND
OF SMILES”
Thai cuisine is the reflection of a rich history and a blended culture. Born from the influence of ancient kingdoms and exchanges with China, India, Malaysia, and even Portugal, it has been shaped over the centuries to become one of the most balanced and refined in the world. The Thai people have managed to combine their neighbors’ culinary techniques with their own traditions, creating a unique cuisine whose magic lies in the perfect balance between four fundamental flavors: sweet, salty, sour, and spicy.
Pad Thai, green curry, Tom Kha Kai soup, or sticky rice with mango and coconut... Let us take you from Abidjan to Bangkok in just a couple of bites !
To these four pillars are added a variety of textures and captivating aromas, thanks to emblematic ingredients such as coconut milk, red chilies, lemongrass, fish sauce, Thai basil, coriander, and galangal. In Abidjan, several addresses — authentic restaurants or trendy canteens — invite you to discover these culinary wonders. You can enjoy dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Want to discover them? Grab your chopsticks, BAAB is switching to Thai time and taking you on a short escape just around the corner !
Open Monday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Zone 3, Rue des Ferronniers
01 70 99 99 99 Sabaï Thaï Traiteur CI
We love : the authenticity of the cuisine and recipes, the generosity of the portions, the freshness of the products, the restaurant’s warm colors, the great-value lunch formula, and the catering and takeaway services.
SIAM THAÏ
Open Monday to Sunday from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Plateau, Immeuble Postel 2001
07 99 13 91 77 siam_thai.restaurant
We love : the menu, which perfectly represents Thai cuisine, the selection of vegetarian dishes, the suggestions by two Thai chefs, the chic and colorful dining room, and the privileged location in the heart of Plateau.
Must-try dishes !
Khao Soy (curry noodle soup), Tom Yum Kung (shrimp soup with lemongrass and coconut milk), shrimp Pad Thai, satay skewer mix, spicy Thai basil beef, or Hor Mok (fish flan with red curry).
Must-try dishes !
Green papaya salad with seafood, Pad Thai Pak, Sua Long Hai (“Crying Tiger”), Thai-style fried fish, shrimp in green curry and coconut milk, and Kaeng Peg (duck breast in red curry).
BAABINES
Must-try dishes !
Tom Kha noodle, crunchy papaya salad, chicken Pad Thai, Pad Kaprao (stir-fried beef with basil, fried egg, and rice), green Thai curry, and rotee.
SHIBA IZAKAYA
Open Tuesday to Sunday from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. Zone 4, av. A. Sawadogo 07 03 03 03 76 shiba.ci
We love : the authenticity and precision of the recipes, especially in the balance of spices, the colorful and dynamic décor, the streetfood vibe, and the variety of emblematic Asian dishes — from Japan to Korea.
And also… Some Thai specialties at :
O’ BONZAÏ
PlaYce Palmeraie 07 11 26 73 86
CASA 60
2 Plateaux, rue des jardins 05 86 00 00 41 casa60abj
It’s the flavor and the color making the entire food scene melt right now! Long relegated to the simple role of a crunchy topping, the pistachio has now become the star ingredient of the trendiest desserts. From pastry shop windows to Instagram stories, its color is everywhere, while its flavor takes over the great classics !
The little green nut is now the new darling of pastry chefs and food lovers alike.
Since the cult trend of “Chocolate Dubai Style,” the whole world seems to have gone green! Pistachio power is taking hold gently but surely — and Abidjan is no exception: melting éclairs, cream-filled cookies, stuffed croissants, reinvented tiramisus, almond-green frappes, or silky pistachio ice creams… the nut shows up in every texture and every temptation, and local pastry chefs are having a field day !
Beyond its visual appeal, the pistachio seduces with its taste. It’s the elegance of the Middle East, the refinement of Sicily, the sweetness of Lebanon. It pairs with everything — chocolate, coffee, orange blossom, lemon…
It evokes travel, sunny afternoons, and slow desserts to be savored. In short, it’s refined pleasure, sweetness without excess, beauty you can bite into… and we love it !
Where to try it :
Pistachio fondant, baklava galette with pistachio frangipane, or trompe-l’œil entremet from Pistache et Chocolat (Zone 4)
Raspberry-pistachio tart, striped pistachiofilled croissant from Mr Chour (2 Plateaux)
Chocolate bread filled with pistachio cream from Pikado (Zone 4)
Pistachio cookies and the “100% pistachio” dessert (biscuit, praline, cream, and melting pistachio heart) from Pâtisserie Nael Tan (Riviera Golf)
Dubai pistachio chocolate cake from Gaspard (Marcory)
Pistachio tiramisu from Cafemisu
CRAVING… TRUFFLES ! THE LITTLE LUXURY THAT AWAKENS THE SEASON
It’s an aroma you recognize before even tasting it! The truffle, that black (or white, depending on the region) diamond, has a rare power: it can transform a simple dish into a true sensory experience. Properly measured, it enhances the dish without stealing the spotlight.
Grated over risotto, infused into a sauce, melted into butter, or even sprinkled over golden fries, it adds elegance without excess — a flavorful caress that makes all the difference. Once reserved for Michelinstarred tables, the truffle is now finding its way into our everyday cravings. Abidjan’s chefs have caught on, playing with it in every form: truffled scrambled eggs, creamy pasta, gourmet pizzas, or mashed potatoes topped with a few flakes — just one touch is enough to change everything.
No need to wait for a special occasion — why resist? Here’s our selection of places for a truffle-inspired feast in Abidjan. Enjoy !
Where to taste it :
The perfect organic egg with truffle, artichoke, and parmesan, or the black truffle CroqueMonsieur at Villa Verde
The veal carpaccio with truffle at Villa Savoia
The truffle risotto or linguine at Chez Rabi
The Wagyu Rossini fillet with truffle at The West
The ham and truffle cream macaroni (coquillettes) at La Brasserie, Sofitel Abidjan Hôtel Ivoire
The truffle fries at Nappa Kitchen
The scallops with shiitake and fresh truffle at Nama
The truffle pizza at La Taverne Romaine
The truffle is that discreet little luxury you allow yourself for the pure joy of the moment.
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 !
ON STAGE
4 CONCERTS NOT TO MISS !
Looking to feel the thrill of live music ? This month, Abidjan is buzzing with must-see concerts. Here are 4 dates to mark in your calendar :
Kadja
November 11, 2025, at the Palais de la Culture 07 05 74 58 58
Davido
November 29, 2025, at the Parc des Expositions 07 67 08 00 00
Pablo U Wa
November 22, 2025, at AZK Live 05 05 00 27 63
Serge Beynaud
December 6, 2025, at the Parc des Expositions. 07 05 11 63 25
THE DJ SETS OF NOVEMBER
THEY’RE SETTING THE TURNTABLES ON FIRE !
This month, Abidjan is pulsing to the rhythm of the hottest beats! Between electrified rooftops, trendy clubs, and intimate spots, the capital is transforming into an open-air dance floor. The DJ sets of the month promise nights where the turntables heat up, bodies move, and the energy never fades !
From afro-house mixes to amapiano sounds, deep soul, funk, and urban rhythms, local and international DJs are competing in creativity to elevate Abidjan’s nightlife. Behind the decks, familiar faces and new talents alike are proving that Abidjan’s electro and afrobeat scene has nothing to envy from the world’s music capitals. Each night has its own signature, its own tempo, its own crowd. Here are the ones not to miss this November !
JUST CHILL
2000s Coupé-Décalé vibes with DJ Tabaco & MC Majesté
November 8, 2025, at Casino Barrière Bookings at www.lehub.online
GOLDEN PARTY 90’S–2000
Rap, RnB, RagaMuffin, Dancehall with DJ Junior Vako and DJ Khalif
November 15, 2025, AZK Live, Blockhauss 05 05 0027 63
FAMILY GROOVE
Top Ivorian electro DJs, giant dance floor
November 22, 2025, Baie des Anges, Abatta 07 05 33 25 57 _familygrooverelais
APÉRO SONORE
Afrobeat, rumba, reggae, funk, jazz by Soul Driver, Le Club Calao and L’Espace Coco
November 27, 2025, Institut Français 27 20 20 40 60 institutfrancais.ci
One thing’s for sure — November’s DJ sets are going to make the city dance… until dawn. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
ZION COCO
Dancehall and Caribbean rhythms with Tonton Mehdi and Vico Downey
November 28, 2025, AZK Live, Blockhauss zioncoco.babi Bookings at www.lehub.online
NOT TO BE MISSED REDOUANE BOUGHERABA IN ABIDJAN
Get ready, Abidjan ! Redouane Bougheraba, the Marseilles-born comedian known for his quick wit and sharp humor, is set to set the stage on fire at the Palais de la Culture on December 12, 2025, for his very first show in Abidjan. A much-anticipated meeting between Mediterranean humor and Ivorian warmth — you’re going to love it !
The Marseille native who makes the world laugh is coming to the Palais de la Culture.
REDOUANE BOUGHERABA
Friday, December 12, 2025, at 7 p.m.
Palais de la Culture, Abidjan
Tickets available at lehub.online
Born in Marseille to Algerian parents, Redouane has become one of the most popular comedians of his generation. The first Marseilles native to join the Jamel Comedy Club and a standout actor in La Vie scolaire by Grand Corps Malade and Mehdi Idir, he has conquered France, Europe, and beyond with his unique style — a mix of self-deprecation, brilliant improvisation, razor-sharp punchlines, and a rare connection with his audience.
In 2023, he became the first French stand-up artist to fill the Vélodrome Stadium, performing in front of 40,000 people who came to laugh, sing, and share in his energy.
In his new show, “À jamais – Mon premier spectacle”, he opens up with his signature sincerity and mischievous charm. He tells his story — his life, his travels, his marriage, his struggles, and his triumphs — through universal themes and witty observations. His art? Making people laugh while hitting just the right emotional notes, moving effortlessly between sharp jokes, heartfelt moments, and cheeky asides.
But be warned : if you’re sitting in the front row, prepare yourself. That’s where the comedian pulls out his favorite weapon — the roast. A game of improvisation in which he teases the audience mercilessly… but always with affection and good humor.
So, are you ready to get lovingly roasted? Redouane Bougheraba promises a show as hilarious as it is unforgettable. And if you’re still hesitating… remember: the front row is always the riskiest — and the funniest!
BOCA CHICA
A VERY NOTICED REOPENING
Since the end of September 2025, Boca Chica, the iconic club-lounge bar at the Noom Hotel Abidjan Plateau, has reopened its doors. Nestled on the hotel’s third floor, this unique venue — both refined and intimate — combines charred wood, subdued lighting, and modern baroque touches to create a warm and sophisticated atmosphere. Every detail evokes the charm of a private club and the modern flair of a cosmopolitan bar.
Between elegance, good vibes, and festive ambiance, Boca Chica marks the return of a true Abidjan nightlife landmark.
With rumba rhythms, club nights, and electric vibes, Boca Chica is once again the beating heart of Abidjan’s nightlife. In its chic décor, plush leather armchairs invite relaxation, low tables spark conversations, and purple and gold lighting lends the space an almost cinematic elegance.
At the bar, connoisseurs are in for a treat: a rich selection of spirits, premium champagnes and wines, and signature cocktails set the tone. Don’t miss the Noom Chica Fizz (gin, white martini, lemon, and cucumber), the Silencio (Campari, pineapple, lemon), or the Sweet Melodie (whisky, peach, watermelon, hibiscus), our favorites, perfectly embodying the spirit of the place.
To accompany these creations, the tapas menu reinvents the classics with a flavorful twist: sushi and sashimi, beef samosas, chicken panzerotti, tapenade bruschetta, shrimp with salsa verde… enough to delight even the most demanding epicureans.
And because the party never really stops, Boca Chica launches its Rumba Nights every Friday, from midnight to 3 a.m. — a suspended moment between rhythm, elegance, and conviviality you won’t want to miss !
Noom Hotel Abidjan Plateau
25 20 00 80 00 / 05 76 99 98 48
THE GALLERY TOUR
THE EXHIBITIONS OF NOVEMBER
«
LA GRANDE
HISTOIRE DES ÉLÉPHANTS »
This is neither an animal exhibition nor a football-themed one! It’s a history exhibition that, through soccer and the work of a team of 11 artists, tells the story of Côte d’Ivoire. Until November 23, 2025, at MuCAT (Abobo).
« DÔMSIS »
Artist Sess Essoh presents works that blend bold use of forms and patterns with characters drawn from everyday life. A feeling of energy and a touch of imagination emerge, inviting reflection. Until the end of November 2025 at Eureka Gallery (Zone 4).
Sess Essoh, Domsis 6, 130x130 cm
« LANIN OU RÉSILIENCE »
Through an unprecedented Plexiglas series, Yéanzi sensitively explores our world and humanity. His work highlights fragments of our time — sometimes forgotten, sometimes unsuspected — to rekindle in us a sense of wonder and nurture a more lucid and vibrant collective imagination. Until November 19, 2025, at La Maison de l’Art (Grand-Bassam).
A« LE SEUIL DE NOS AZURS »
Thibaut Bouedjoro-Camus, Le songe de Catherine, 2022. Tempera and oil on canvas, 200 x 250 x 3.5 cm. Courtesy of Galerie Cécile Fakhoury – Abidjan / Dakar / Paris
collective exhibition bringing together Thibaut Bouedjoro-Camus, Eva Diallo, Fanny Irina, Elladj Lincy Deloumeaux, Marie-Claire Messouma Manlanbien, Cheikh Ndiaye, and Kassou Seydou, exploring the meeting point between the social and natural being. The show interprets azure — sky, air, or water — as a symbol of serenity, hope, and purity, carrying values of sharing and solidarity. Until November 8, 2025, at Galerie Cécile Fakhoury (Cocody).
YEANZI, Série Somnium 2, 2025. Mixed technique on canvas, 200 x 200 cm
Crédit photo : Courtesy of the Artist and GALERIE FARAH FAKHRI
« GAZE ETERNAL : ETHIOPIA PAST AND BECOMING »
Aspecial prelude exhibition to the Africa Foto Fair, bringing together archival and contemporary Ethiopian photography, film projections, and sound installations inspired by Francis Falceto, accompanied by live music. From November 12 to 17, 2025, at the Institut Français (Plateau).
« THE PRINT ROOM : AFRICA FOTO FAIR EDITIONS »
In parallel with the Africa Foto Fair, this exhibition — entirely dedicated to photographic collections — will present limited-edition prints signed by Ivorian and international photographers. The scenography, designed by Mohamed Beldjoudi, offers a nocturnal, participatory experience: the gallery and garden will be transformed into a “forest of silhouettes,” where each visitor, flashlight in hand, will discover the works in a mysterious, immersive atmosphere. From November 27 to December 14, 2025, at Galerie Studer (Cocody).
« FANON ANTINOMIES »
Avisual and sound exhibition held as part of the centenary of the birth of Frantz Fanon (1925–1961), a major figure in anti-colonial struggles and an essential thinker of liberation. Through videos, installations, and previously unpublished correspondence, FANON Antinomies examines identity fractures, the weight of colonial history, and the subversive power of creation. Until November 29, 2025, at Something Art Space (Blockhauss).
«
ABOUDIA
: 15 YEARS OF CAREER »
The man captivates, the artist astonishes. His work — monumental and breathtaking — is savored like a feast. A giant of talent and labor, he impresses through powerful canvases born of relentless passion. A dazzling career that began in 2009 at the Institut Français de Côte d’Ivoire, now celebrating its 15th anniversary. From November 27 to December 16, 2025, at the Institut Français (Plateau).
« DESIGN MEETS ART : A COLORFUL INTERLUDE »
This exhibition will bring together a selection of design pieces and artworks focused on color and material, in a free and joyful spirit. It will highlight the work of two designers, Paul Moustapha Ledron and Dalia Thermos Husseini, as well as visual artists Fadi El Chamaa, Yubah Sanogo, and Romilus. From November 1 to 22, 2025, at Walls House of Art Gallery (Zone 4).
« LES MAÎTRES DE DEMAIN : L’HÉRITAGE RÉVÉLÉ »
An exhibition extending the artistic prophecy launched in 2006 and 2007 by Galerie Houkamy Guyzagn, when it set out to identify and support a young generation of artists destined for major futures. Nearly twenty years later, that vision has been confirmed: the talents of yesterday now embody the vitality of the contemporary Ivorian and African scene. Remaining true to its mission of transmission and revelation, the gallery continues this role by spotlighting three new exceptional voices: Mimi Brignon, Yaye Abibatou Keita, and Angélus Gamble.
Mimi Brignon, “the master in the making,” explores memory and reconstruction through laceration, collage, and mixed techniques. In her raw yet sensitive canvases, wounds become poetic and political material, revealing the beauty that emerges from hardship.
Yaye Abibatou Keita, known as “the weaver of memory,” bridges Malian tradition and contemporary creation. Her works — between textile, thread, and texture — celebrate femininity, transmission, and gentleness as a restorative force.
Angélus Gamble, finally, offers a spiritual dive into light born from chaos. His art, straddling figuration and abstraction, transforms pain into luminous energy. Each canvas becomes an emotional portal — a quest for meaning and resilience.
From November 6 to Saturday, November 22, 2025, at Galerie Houkamy Guyzagn (Riviera 2).
« LES BAPTISÉS »
THE LIVING LEGACY OF JACOBLEU
Ten artists, ten universes : “Les Baptisés” celebrates transmission and the talent of the new Ivorian artistic scene.
Until November 9, 2025, the Jacobleu Art Gallery is hosting “Les Baptisés” (“The Baptized”). This project is part of the 30th anniversary of Jacobleu’s creation and, for the first time, dedicates an exhibition to its former students, who have become established creators with a unique vision and style.
Amakan, Ankofa, Anvilo, Doudou B., Franckasso, G. Néa, Gnohité, Krefady, Odonko, and San Kwam: these ten artists, from all over Côte d’Ivoire, represent several generations. Their works—canvases, sculptures, or graphics— are stories, cries, prayers, and dreams. Each creation invites us to feel, to question, to listen to the forms that whisper and the colors that murmur.
“Les Baptisés” is a celebration of the new generation, heritage, and the future. These artists, some already recognized, others promising, proudly carry the torch passed on by Jacobleu. Their pseudonyms, given by the master himself, invite them to walk with brilliance on the paths of art.
Anvilo, Entre tradition et modernité, acrylique sur toile, 90x90 cm, 2024
« LES BAPTISÉS »
Until November 9, 2025
Jacobleu Art Gallery, 2 Plateaux - Aghien
07 98 28 64 50
Krefady, La générosité, bois et récupération, 145x29 cm, 2021
Amakan, Gbèrè, mixte sur Jean, 120x120cm, 2025
Ankofa, De l’ombre à la lumière, Acrylique sur toile, 100x100 cm, 2020
Franckasso, Abidjan, nattage sur toile, 80x120 cm, 2024
San Kwam, Paire de lunettes rouges, taille directe sur bois, 78x28x29 cm, 2022
AFRICA FOTO FAIR 2025
CELEBRATING AFRICA AND THE WORLD IN PHOTOS
In just four editions, AFF has already attracted over 27,000 visitors and brought together artists from more than 30 countries, affirming its ambition to become a major crossroads for African and global photography.
From November 12 to December 7, 2025, Côte d’Ivoire will host the 4th edition of the Africa Foto Fair (AFF), one of the continent’s most anticipated photographic events. Founded and directed by visual artist Aïda Muluneh, this international festival celebrates the power of the image, the diversity of African perspectives, and the dialogue between tradition and modernity. After Addis Ababa and three successful editions in Abobo, AFF is moving to Grand-Bassam this year while maintaining a dynamic artistic program in Abidjan at the Institut français and Galerie Studer. This dual presence embodies the very spirit of the festival: a connection between memory and innovation, heritage and contemporary creation, rooted in the urban and human landscapes of Côte d’Ivoire.
Abidjan : Launching with Ethiopia and Contemporary Creation
From November 12 to 17, 2025, the Institut français will host the exhibition “Gaze Eternal : Ethiopia Past and Becoming,” a true sensory experience dedicated to Ethiopian history and modernity. The scenography, designed by Mohamed Beldjoudi, will feature an installation of 30 interactive photo-sound cubes blending images, sounds, and visual archives from the collections of musicologist Francis Falceto and historian Hugues Fontaine, authors of reference works such as Arthur Rimbaud, Photographer and Menelik: An Abyssinia of Photographers. This unique exhibition will explore the cultural and artistic transformation of Ethiopia, while evoking its historical relationship with Arthur Rimbaud and the Ethio-Djibouti railway, a symbol of modernity under Menelik II.
The program will be enriched by screenings of Ethiopian musical archives, a documentary
film dedicated to composer Girma Beyene, and a live concert by singer Yohana Sahle, for a total fusion of sound and image.
Another major event: “The Print Room : Africa Foto Fair Editions”, presented from November 27 to December 14, 2025 at Galerie Studer. This exhibition will highlight collectible photography, featuring limited-edition prints by African and international artists, produced by Africa Print House (APH). Under the artistic direction of Mohamed Beldjoudi, the gallery and its garden will be transformed into a forest of luminous silhouettes, inviting a poetic and participatory stroll through the images.
To extend the experience, the Saturday Night Cultural Lounge will be held on November 29 at the ONOMO Airport Hotel. An open evening blending outdoor photo installations, projections, and DJ sets, offering a space for artists, curators, and photography enthusiasts to meet and exchange.
Godiva Omoruyi, Nigéria
CULTURE
Grand-Bassam : An Open-Air Museum
Starting November 22, the festival will take up residence in Grand-Bassam, where the entire historic center will be transformed into a living gallery. The anchor point of this program will be La Maison de l’Art, which will host the main exhibition “Lines of Sight : Africa Now.” Bringing together works by more than 30
artists from the continent and the diaspora, this exhibition will provide an overview of new African photographic narratives: an exploration of social realities, shifting identities, and contemporary imaginaries.
Among the highlights, Algerian artist Ferhat Bouda will present a solo exhibition titled “Berber Culture (Imazighen),” staged by Mohamed Beldjoudi, which will highlight the cultural richness and resilience of the Amazigh peoples. The colonial houses of Grand-Bassam will also be taken over by in situ installations :
At Comptoir 1909, a collaboration between Beldjoudi, Julia Llerena, and Marta Soul will offer a dialogue between materials, memory, and identity.
American artist Lucas Foglia will present “Constant Bloom: A Migration of Fragile Flight,” a visual metaphor for migration inspired by the Painted Lady butterfly.
At La Maison Rose, the installation “Echoes of Bassam: An Archival Reflection” will revisit the visual memory of the city and its inhabitants, inviting a journey between past and present.
An International Meeting for Training and Exchange
AFF 2025 is not just about exhibitions: the festival continues its mission of education and transmission. Masterclasses, workshops, and discussions will bring together leading figures in global photography such as Paolo Verzone (Italy), Hugues Fontaine, Francis Falceto (France), Ala Kheir (Sudan), Jorge Luis Alvarez (Cuba), Thomas Borberg (Denmark), and five Spanish photographers: Sofía Moro, Marta Soul, Ana Amado, Julia Llerena, and Cesar Dezfuli. Their presence will confirm AFF’s vocation as a laboratory for artistic exchange and a springboard for the young African photographic scene.
Ferhat Bouda, Algérie
Sosina Mengistu, Ethiopie
A Legacy in Motion
The closing of the festival will be marked by a flagship event: the inauguration of the Aïda Muluneh Center in Abidjan, a hybrid space dedicated to photography, design, and contemporary African creation. This center aims to become a place for exhibition, production, and training, consolidating AFF’s role as a driving force in the African photographic ecosystem.
From November 12 to December 7, 2025
Abidjan et Grand-Bassam
AFRICA FOTO FAIR 2025
Karen Kouamé, Côte d’Ivoire
SOUNDJATA KEÏTA
THE MANDINGUE OPERA
Atrue cultural phenomenon, Soundjata Keïta, the Mandingue Opera marked 2024 as the must-see show of the year. Three evenings sold out more than a month in advance, a unanimous standing ovation, and an audience captivated by this spectacular fresco blending music, dance, song, and theater. In response to this enthusiasm, the epic returns for an exceptional new series on December 11, 12, and 13, 2025, featuring a revised staging and a brand-new orchestration.
This masterpiece by Abass Zein (author, passionate director, and producer) draws from one of the most powerful narratives in African history: that of Soundjata Keïta, founder of the Mali Empire, whose epic is often compared to that of Alexander the Great. Born around 1190 in Niani, Soundjata overcame a childhood marked by difference and rejection before becoming, after the Battle of Kirina in 1235, the unifier of the Mandingue kingdoms. Under his reign, Mali became a flourishing empire, a major intellectual, artistic, and spiritual center of medieval Africa. Soundjata’s story is rooted in an ancestral prophecy, that of Naré Fa Maghan Konaté, king of Mandé. While everything seemed destined for the dynasty, a Dozo (diviner hunter) came to tell the king that he must marry a hunchbacked woman—Sogolon, the buffalo woman— so that the history of Mandé would be eternal, for she would give him the heir who would make this possible. From this union, Soundjata was born, the one whose legend would traverse the centuries, carried by the memory of the griots.
To bring this incredible epic to life, Abass Zein imagined a grand, multidisciplinary spectacle, bringing together more than 100 artists on stage—musicians, singers, actors, dancers, and extras—as well as more than 200 costumes created for the occasion. A true symphony of talents orchestrated by a top-tier artistic team: Jean François Gahou as musical director, Nikoko Yao as choreographer, Constant Assoukrou as choir director, Jean Chrysostome Pango Akaty, Salif Keïta, and Aly Fawaz as costume designers. However, Soundjata Keïta, the Mandingue Opera is much more than a show: it is a dive into African history, a reminder of cultural foundations, and a call to understand the past in order to build the future. Undoubtedly, this end-of-year event promises to be unforgettable. Don’t miss it !
December 11, 12, and 13, 2025
SOUNDJATA KEITA
NOVEMBRE NUMÉRIQUE POEGNAN WORKSHOPS AT IFCI
Every year, Novembre Numérique celebrates the creativity and innovations of the digital world. Initiated by the Institut français, this event invites the public to discover new forms of expression born from today’s technologies.
In Abidjan, the Institut français de Côte d’Ivoire fully embraces this dynamic by collaborating with the Ateliers Poegnan, founded by the Ivorian artist and creator Cris Douty. Self-taught and passionate about science, pop culture, and futuristic universes, Cris Douty—whose real name is Poegnan—merges art and technology in a visionary approach. Drawing, 2D/3D animation, visual effects, NFTs, virtual or augmented reality: his hybrid creations redefine the relationship between culture and innovation. Inspired by stars and butterflies, symbols of freedom and transformation, he founded the Poegnan Club in 2021, a space for reflection and experimentation around African digital arts.
The Ateliers Poegnan are, above all, a meeting place for lovers of technology and culture. The goal is to enable everyone to learn about the innovations shaping the world of tomorrow: 3D, photogrammetry, virtual and augmented reality, and many other tools of the future. Once again this year, IFCI becomes a true laboratory where artists, students, and the curious come together to explore the links between art, science, and culture.
From November 20 to 22, the public will discover an immersive exhibition featuring several artistic works: drone photogrammetry by Isaac Explore on architecture, a 3D fashion show by Brice Christian Alle, motion design creations by Esthann Nielbien, 3D projects by Tdjan, and virtual reality experiences by Cris Douty. These works, also visible in
augmented reality, invite a dive into African cultures through technology. The program will also include mini-conferences on topics such as protecting one’s work digitally or technological innovations, screenings of Ivorian short films, a virtual reality booth, a themed photo area, and a video game corner to combine learning and fun.
The previous edition had made an impression
with an immersive experience around a sacred forest and the world of spirits. This year, the Ateliers Poegnan continue with the same ambition: to awaken curiosity, inspire wonder, and show that digital can be a tool for cultural transmission. With this new edition, Novembre Numérique at IFCI becomes a space for exchange and creativity where art and technology meet to imagine the world of tomorrow together.
CINEMA AT IFCI
CHIEN 51 by Cédric Jimenez
Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 7 p.m.
AFRICAN GLORY by Thierry Bugaud
Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 7 p.m.
LOIN DE MOI LA COLÈRE by Joël Akafou
Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 7 p.m.
Plateau, av. Franchet d’Esperey 27 20 20 40 60
Institut Français de Côte d’Ivoire institutfrançais.ci
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).
220 LOGEMENTS THE MUSICAL COMEDY THAT TELLS THE STORY OF CÔTE D’IVOIRE !
Produced by La Fabrique Culturelle, based on the original idea of Chantal Djédjé and directed by Souleymane Sow, 220 Logements is a musical saga of history and collective Ivorian memory. Through the intertwined destinies of eight colorful characters from Adjamé— the retired old womanizer, the neighborhood pin-up, the always-informed bar owner, and the dream-filled youth—it traces the major political and social upheavals that marked the country from the 1990s to the 2000s.
A historical fresco in two episodes that immerses the audience in the daily life of Abidjan’s mythical 220 Logements neighborhood.
The first episode, 1990-1999, transports us to the effervescence of the 1990s, rhythmically driven by zouglou and the dreams of a youth in search of a future. Between the advent of multiparty politics, student revolts, and the death of President Félix Houphouët-Boigny, the show blends humor and emotion, never falling into pathos. The second installment, 2000-2010, addresses a darker decade, marked by rebellion, post-electoral crises, and the division of the country. Around the Faro Faro maquis, residents tell their daily
lives, between shortages, political tensions, and the quest for reconciliation. Yet, thanks to dynamic staging and the energy of the actors, the show avoids heaviness and opens a space for dialogue and reconciliation, showing the strength of the collective in the face of adversity.
220 Logements is a show for all audiences, blending music, humor, and reflection. More than a play, it is an invitation to understand and move beyond a complex history, while keeping hope for a more peaceful future.
220 LOGEMENTS
Le 6 novembre 2025 (Épisode 1) et 7 novembre 2025 (Épisode 2) à 19h
Institut français
Tickets disponibles sur www.lehub.online
LE BEST-OFF DU MOIS
GADA - MONDOUKOU GONDWANA CLUB
The GADA aim to highlight the richness and diversity of Ivorian dances — traditional, urban, and contemporary — through training workshops, reflection seminars, performances, and shows.
The first comedy club in Abidjan offering shows that mix the most famous comedians with the emerging new scene.
November 7 and 28, 2025, at 9 p.m. at the Pullman Hotel Abidjan 05 04 00 66 66
From November 7 to 9, 2025, at the Institut Français and the Cocoteraie des Arts, Mondoukou 07 68 09 97 30
L’ART NOURRIT-IL SON HOMME ? - LA FABRIQUE CULTURELLE
In an explosion of rhythms and gestures inspired by Ivorian and African traditional dances, the Mien-Moh Company dances the journey of a young Ivorian artist broken by contempt and precariousness.
November 8, 2025, at 8 p.m. at La Fabrique Culturelle 07 07 88 90 08
FESAF 2025 - ANONO
FESTIVAL
The 4th edition of the Festival des Arts au Féminin, celebrating art, culture, and women’s commitment as drivers of stability and social transformation. On the program: social actions, gastronomy, exhibitionsales, and a giant concert.
November 13, 14, and 15, 2025 at Anono Field
07 08 14 47 68
KOMPA CHILL & DANCE - MENEKRÉ LEGEND
DANCE PARTY
Get ready to move to the rhythm of Kompa ! A 100% live evening featuring an orchestra, dance demonstrations and initiation, and a clubbing atmosphere carried by an explosive DJ mix. Pure enjaillement guaranteed !
November 14, 2025, at 10 p.m. at Menekré Legend Réservations : www.lehub.online
ÇA AURAIT DU BIEN SE PASSER
INSTITUT FRANÇAIS
LITERARY CAFÉ
Flore Hazoumé is one of the pioneering Ivorian voices. She recently published ‘’Ça aurait dû bien se passer” with Les Classiques Africains in April 2025. Point de Lecture welcomes her to discuss relationships that had everything to succeed and yet break apart — often to the great despair of one side.
November 19, 2025, at 4 p.m. at the Institut Français 27 20 20 40 60
3 COLD DISHES
MOVIE OF THE MONTH
From Benin to Côte d’Ivoire to Nigeria, three women forever marked by trafficking unite to orchestrate relentless revenge against the powerful men who destroyed them. In a world that thought they were forgotten, they return — methodical and determined — to seek justice themselves.
BAAB talks about it...
This explosive thriller from Nigerian director Oluseyi Asurf Amuya, produced by superstar Burna Boy, follows three survivors of human trafficking from Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, and Benin, who reunite twenty years later to avenge their shattered past. With an all-panAfrican cast, the film blends action, emotion, and social engagement — a historic meeting between Nollywood and Babiwood.
Already hailed with 8 nominations at the African Movie Academy Awards (including Best Actress for Ivorian star Fat Touré and Best Director), 3 Cold Dishes is far more than a story of revenge — it’s a plea for survival, justice, and sisterhood, rooted in West African realities. Filmed across four countries, the movie showcases spectacular scenery and universal themes, boldly affirming the power of African cinema — visionary and forwardlooking. In theaters November 27, 2025, at Majestic Cinemas. Get ready for a cinematic shock: revenge has never been this cold — or this just !
Téléchargez l’Application pour voir les horaires et tarifs
ACTIVITY OF THE MONTH
THE UPCYCLING AND ECO-RESPONSIBLE
WORKSHOPS BY LES PROFÊTES
Giving new life to a forgotten garment, transforming a T-shirt into a unique piece, or simply learning to consume differently… that’s the spirit of Les Profêtes’ eco-responsible workshops, a joyful and committed community that blends creativity, sustainability, and conviviality.
One workshop, one atmosphere, one philosophy: consume less, but better — and always with good vibes. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Known as the “Pros de la Fête,” Les Profêtes organize chill-out workshops around the themes of sorting, reusing, and upcycling for individuals and companies alike. Their goal is simple: to raise awareness about sustainability and environmental impact in a creative and enjoyable way — mixing handson activities, conversation, local drinks, and gourmet buffets.
The upcycling workshop, first held in October, is an event where everyone brings a piece from their wardrobe — that pair of pants you no longer dare to wear, that top you still love but that sleeps in a drawer, or that shirt in need of a little modern twist. Guided by a fashion designer committed
UPCYCLING WORKSHOP
Early December 2025 at Villa76 07 13 91 21 32 lesprofetes.ci
to ethical fashion, participants learn how to transform their clothes: embroidery, fabric painting, cutting, customizing, adding pearls or jewelry — everything is allowed! The idea? To give a second life to what we already own, with a simple thread, a needle, a dash of imagination… and lots of good humor.
The workshop ends with a shared moment where each participant reveals their “pimped” piece — immortalized before and after the transformation. A shared pride, liberated creativity, and the joy of learning how to make something beautiful, sustainable, and personal. Want to create differently ? Don’t miss the next one !
WANT TO TRY... SACRED FEMININE DANCE
Sacred feminine dance is an ancient practice found in many cultures worldwide. Often part of spiritual rituals, healing ceremonies, or celebrations of femininity, fertility, and divine connection, it includes forms such as Oriental dance, which holds a central place for its Egyptian roots linked to fertility rites and celebration of the female body. Centered around the pelvis, this dance seeks to awaken the hara or chi — the energy center, source of life and transcendence.
Today, sacred feminine dance is reborn in a contemporary form — a moving meditation, a reconnection to self, to work with inner energies and rediscover the essence of the sacred feminine. In Abidjan, dancer and choreographer Johanna Najla (graduate of the International Dance Council of UNESCO, representing oriental cultures worldwide) offers workshops and classes to explore these spiritual, artistic, and therapeutic dimensions.
Sessions begin with an introduction to the philosophy of the sacred feminine and the history of Oriental dance, followed by learning steps and movements, then a short choreography. The experience continues with a circle of free expression, deep stretches inspired by Pharaonic yoga, and concludes with a women’s sharing circle to express feelings and experiences.
Sacred feminine dance is an invitation to slow down, feel, and reclaim one’s body and power — a powerful, gentle, and deeply liberating experience. A beautiful way to dance through life.
Dancing to reconnect with one’s womb, one’s story, and life itself.
WITH JOHANNA NAJLA
The Noor Concept 07 57 05 49 48 Classes on Thursdays from 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. (reservation via The Noor Concept or in2 app). Special workshop “Pregnant Women & Postpartum” on November 27, 2025, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
AROUND A GLASS...
WE EXCHANGE, WE WRITE, WE SHARE
What if the apéro became more than just a casual drink? In Abidjan, a new wave of convivial gatherings blends culture, reflection, and creativity. Here, you toast as much with words as with glasses. Between passionate discussions, shared readings, and inspiring writing workshops, these apéros reinvent the art of coming together.
Three events to feed both the mind and the heart — because in Abidjan, ideas deserve their happy hour too !
THE PHILOSOPHICAL APÉRO
Every last Sunday of the month, La Maison Chiropratique offers a free and welcoming space for dialogue, where participants exchange on thought-provoking themes. A two-hour discussion over a drink — questioning the world, sharing ideas, learning to listen and to think differently. A unique moment to nurture curiosity and the thirst for knowledge, in a relaxed and inspiring atmosphere.
THE PHILOSOPHICAL APÉRO
Next session: November 30, 2025, at 3 p.m. Theme: “Loyalty to Oneself” Open to all (under 13 must be accompanied by a parent)
Maison Chiropratique, Riviera 4 07 48 02 12 08
THE LITERARY APÉRO
Book lover or just curious ? The Literary Apéro is made for you! Every month, at the Sankofart Sum Foundation, the online bookstore Le Village Littéraire gathers readers, authors, and enthusiasts over a drink to celebrate Ivorian literature in a warm and inspiring atmosphere. The concept: a participatory book club where everyone shares impressions, discovers new authors, and discusses the book of the month chosen around a specific theme. Writers present may also showcase their works, even if not on the main selection.
Participation is by registration, with a fee based on the book of the month — delivered to participants before the event. Between glasses of wine, laughter, and passionate debates, the Literary Apéro is the perfect occasion to broaden horizons and build a network full of ideas and friendships.
THE LITERARY APÉRO
Every last Saturday of the month at 5 p.m. Sankofart Sum Foundation, Riviera Faya 07 17 52 39 49 LeVillageLittéraire
BUBBLES & FEATHER
Imagine a workshop where brushes are swapped for pens, and a blank canvas becomes a page ready to receive emotions and dreams. That’s the concept of Bubbles & Feather, an experience inspired by Paint and Sip — but reimagined around writing. Here, you “sip” bubbles — both from your glass and from your creativity — in a friendly and poetic atmosphere.
Organized by Maison 5 Dimensions, a multidimensional development firm, each session invites participants to explore various creative writing techniques: visualization, intuitive writing, mindfulness, lexical enrichment, and more. The goal isn’t to write perfectly, but to write truthfully — to rediscover the pleasure of words and the beauty of the present moment. In a soothing and refined setting, with soft music, dim lights, and delicate scents, Bubbles & Feather becomes a space for relaxation, sharing, and inspiration — where words are savored like bubbles of joy and freedom.
BUBBLES & FEATHER
Every other Saturday Upcoming dates and themes on Maison5Dimensions 05 01 21 88 88
WANT TO TRY...
ARCHERY
Archery is experiencing a remarkable rise across Africa. This ancient sport, both an art and a discipline, captivates with its blend of concentration, precision, and serenity. Far more than just a physical activity, archery is a school of patience, where every movement matters, where breath and posture harmonize toward excellence — a perfect balance of self-control and play.
Accessible to all, it doesn’t require great strength but rather calm and curiosity. So why not give it a try? Here are some clubs in Abidjan where you can practice :
L’Association sportive des Archers d’Abidjan 05 65 65 57 01, Marcory Arc Club 01 02 07 45 01, Académie des Archers d’Abidjan 05 06 44 01 63, Plateau Arc Club 07 07 7334 45 Yopougon Arc Club
Event of the Month
From November 19 to 23, 2025, at the Robert Champroux Stadium in Marcory, Côte d’Ivoire will host the 14th African Archery Championship. This major event aims to promote the sport, inspire youth, and prepare Ivorian and African athletes for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games and the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games. It will bring together 21 African nations, including Côte d’Ivoire, Algeria, Benin, Morocco, Somalia, Sudan, Zimbabwe, Chad, Cameroon, Comoros, Egypt, Guinea, Kenya, Libya, Mauritius, Nigeria, South Africa, Senegal, Togo, Tunisia, and Uganda — for a week of competition, fraternity, and sporting excellence.
More information : www.fivta.net
AVIATION DISCOVERY DAY
DIVE INTO THE FASCINATING WORLD OF AERONAUTICS !
Organized by the IFLYSIM Foundation, Aviation Discovery Day is an immersive day designed for children and young adults fascinated by the world of aviation. Between interactive workshops, inspiring encounters, and flight simulators, this unique experience opens the doors to a booming sector, where opportunities are as vast as the sky itself.
For several years, the IFLYSIM Foundation has been dedicated to popularizing aeronautical careers and connecting African youth to the opportunities within the industry. Its goal: to showcase the diversity of professions that bring this sector to life — pilot, engineer, air traffic controller, mechanic, airport manager, and more.
During Aviation Discovery Day, participants (aged 7 to 19) experience full immersion in the world of flight and aviation. The foundation provides its expertise and tools to make the day unforgettable. With ultra-realistic flight simulators, participants, supervised by professional instructors, experience the thrill of a real cockpit. They learn to pilot an airliner, manage controls, and understand the challenges of flight. The day also includes meetings with industry professionals who share their journeys and advice.
Playful workshops combining virtual reality and hands-on experiments allow participants to get a real feel for the profession. And to top it all off, each participant leaves with a certificate of participation, symbolizing this first step toward a potential career in aviation.
An enriching experience combining discovery, learning, and fun. Ready to take off toward new horizons ?
AVIATION DISCOVERY DAY
Grand-Bassam, VITIB – Bloc A 07 19 55 91 91
Workshops by appointment or on fixed dates Info on iflysim_foundation
SOLIDARITY ACTION
THE NATIONAL FOOD BANK DRIVE
In Côte d’Ivoire, thousands of families struggle daily to access sufficient and balanced food. In response to this reality, the Banque Alimentaire de Côte d’Ivoire mobilizes to fight hunger and food waste. Each year, its National Food Drive gathers citizens, volunteers, and partners around a common goal: to provide essential goods to those who need them most. In 2024, more than 12 tons of products were collected, helping thousands of beneficiaries. This year, the call for solidarity is renewed: from December 5 to 7, 2025, everyone can take part!
What if, by doing your shopping, you could change lives ?
The National Food Drive is much more than a one-time event — it’s a civic movement uniting all of Côte d’Ivoire. For three days, dozens of volunteers will be stationed in the country’s largest supermarkets (Carrefour, Auchan, Prosuma group, Super U...) to collect non-perishable goods (rice, pasta, oil, milk, hygiene products, etc.).
Once sorted and stored, these donations are redistributed throughout the year to partner associations that support families in precarious situations. Last year’s drive collected over 12.6 tons of goods, thanks to
the commitment of 350 volunteers and 40 partner supermarkets — a testament to the power of solidarity, where every donation, however small, makes a difference.
How to participate ?
Getting involved is simple:
- I buy : while shopping, add one or more non-perishable items to your basket.
- I give : drop off your donations at the designated collection points in partner supermarkets.
- I feed : your gesture helps provide balanced meals to families in need.
For more information : www.banquealimentaire.ci
KATIOLA THE CITY OF POTTERS
A stop on the road to the North, Katiola is a land of history, art, and women. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Atthe heart of the north-central region of Côte d’Ivoire, 50 kilometers from Bouaké on the road to Korhogo, lies Katiola. Also known as the City of Hambol, this town of about 130,000 inhabitants captivates with its peaceful atmosphere, its spiritual history, and above all, an art that makes the country’s heart beat: the pottery of the Mangoro women.
The Guardians of the Earth
In Katiola, pottery is not just a profession; it is a sacred heritage passed down from mother to daughter for generations. In most African societies, craftsmanship is a male domain. But in Katiola, the art of shaping clay is a women’s affair! Alongside the Tagbanas, traditional farmers, the Mangoro women keep alive an activity as ancient as it is symbolic. They handcraft canaris—jars shaped like calabashes that keep water cool—as well as vases, plates, dishes, and decorative objects. The most experienced potters can produce up to forty pieces a day, a feat that testifies to their absolute mastery of the material.
Extracting the Clay
Everything begins with the earth. Once a year, during the dry season, the women go to extract clay from quarries located at the gates of Katiola. For two to three months, they dig the red earth with pickaxes and hoes, forming small hills of clay that will be the basis of their creations. These quarries are not mere deposits; they are sacred spaces, places of communion with the ancestors. Access is forbidden to outsiders without the approval of the village elder. Each pile of clay is carefully protected by a small stone totem or fetish, a symbol of ownership and a talisman against theft.
Back in the village, the clay is pounded, sifted, and then soaked overnight to remove impurities. The next day, the potters knead it with their right foot before beating it by hand to give it flexibility and strength. The shaping is done without a mechanical wheel: a simple circular base placed in a large curved dish suffices. With one hand, the potter turns the base; with the other, she shapes the pot. To refine the contours, the women use their fingers, a small knife called a woya, makeshift scrapers, or even mechanical parts recovered from repair shops. Decorative motifs, often geometric or corded, are imprinted on the damp clay using braided sticks. Once the shape is achieved, the potters coat the surface with a mixture of clay and plants, which gives the piece its golden ochre hue, and then leave it to dry in the sun. The firing, a pivotal moment in the process, is carried out in
artisanal kilns made of straw and wood. This is both a technical and mystical step. The final color—brown, red, or black—depends on the heat and duration. Nothing is trivial, and if a pot comes out black from the fire, it is said to be a sign from the ancestors, foretelling that misfortune looms over the potter’s family.
Shaping, Sculpting, Decorating
At the heart of the city center, not far from the market, stands the House of Potters, inaugurated in 2014 with the support of the United Nations. Designed to protect, promote, and empower rural women, it is today the symbol of Katiola’s artisan revival. Here, the potters display and sell their works, but also train, exchange, and perpetuate the tradition. Organized into a cooperative of about 300 women, they have transformed an ancestral art into a real lever for local development.
The school of know-how
How Established in 1957, the Katiola Professional Training Center for Art and Ceramics is one of the oldest in the country. The institution has since expanded its scope with a textile decoration program, training a new generation of artisans ready to modernize the know-how without distorting it. It teaches sculpture, decoration, color chemistry, and even contemporary design, all with the same goal: to ensure the sustainability of a living heritage and establish Katiola as a major hub for Ivorian crafts.
Practical Information
Visit Katiola and the potteries with Franciskoroko Coulibaly. 07 47 22 56 33.
