DAY 1

It’s best to let go of any rigid plans or expectations of time while in West Africa. With my trusty tripod strapped to my backpack, I head out from Bamako, the capital city of Mali, and test my skills of gesticulation and negotiation. First task: figure out my transportation options to the smaller, rural towns and villages. This morning I hoped to get an early start before the sun would have a chance to come out in full blazing glory. Arriving at the bus station, and not speaking a word of French or Bambara, I approached the ticket window asking for a schedule for the buses to Segou. Getting conflicting information from the various people behind the ticket window, I deemed it best to simply wander around the bus stop and follow the locals’ lead.

With my very conspicuous camera around my neck, I couldn’t so much buy a sachet of mineral water without attracting the attention of curious and playful children. One girl softly slipped her hand into mine and looked up at me with huge doe eyes, whispering in Bambara, “Enichi!” At that moment, I knew that Kumba’s face would leave an indelible print in my mind’s eye. I did not want to scare her by pulling out my camera with the very ominous-looking lens, but she reacted with a surprising calmness for a 5 year old girl.

DAY 2