- ‘Timbuktu’ (2014) – Directed by Abderrahmane Sissako, this internationally acclaimed film is set in a small town in Mali but also showcases elements of Niger’s culture. It tells the story of a cattle herder and his family living under the rule of religious extremists.
- ‘Gardiens de Phare’ (2011) – Directed by Souleymane Mahamadou, this drama follows the lives of a group of lighthouse keepers on the shores of Lake Chad, which is shared by several countries including Niger.
- ‘Bend it Like Beckham’ (2002) – While the majority of the movie is set in the England, a portion of it takes place in Niger. This English comedy-drama film explores the struggles of an Anglo-Indian girl who desires to play professional soccer against the wishes of her traditional family.
- ‘The Blue Eyes of Yonta’ (1992) – Although not entirely set in Niger, this film by Flora Gomes is a co-production between Guinea-Bissau and Niger. It tells the story of Yonta, a young woman living in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau, and her quest for love and happiness.
- ‘The Wind’ (1982) – Directed by Souleymane Cissé, this film is set in a remote African village and portrays the clash between tradition and modernity. While it’s not exclusively set in Niger, it offers a glimpse into the culture and struggles faced in rural communities.
- ‘The Purple Violet of Oshaantu’ by Neshani Andreas – Although the majority of the book is set in Namibia, a part of the story takes place in Niger. It follows the lives of two women from different backgrounds who find themselves bound together in a small town.
- ‘The Tongue’s Blood Does Not Run Dry’ by Assia Djebar – This novel, written by an Algerian author, explores the lives of women in various African countries, including Niger. It delves into the political and personal struggles faced by these women, with Niger as one of the settings.
- ‘The Upper Guinea Coast in Global Perspective’ edited by Jacqueline Knörr and Siumnik D. Fuchs – Although this book is an academic work, it offers a comprehensive perspective on the historical and contemporary dynamics of the region that includes Niger. It explores the interactions between various communities and their engagement with global processes.
- ‘The Bad-Ass Librarians of Timbuktu and Their Race to Save the World’s Most Precious Manuscripts’ by Joshua Hammer – While this non-fiction book primarily focuses on Timbuktu in Mali, it touches upon the cultural and historical importance of its neighbouring countries, including Niger. It tells the thrilling true story of a group of librarians who risked their lives to protect priceless manuscripts.
- ‘The Shadow of the Sun’ by Ryszard Kapuscinski – Although this book by a Polish journalist primarily focuses on his experiences in various African countries, including Nigeria, it also includes insights into Niger. Kapuscinski shares his observations on the political and social context of the region, offering a broader perspective.
WANDERLIST: Niger in books and on film
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