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Country Guide > Africa > Niger | |
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Social Profile Food & Drink Although Niger has concentrated on improving its agriculture, shortages of locally produced foodstuffs are common, owing to drought. Traditional dishes tend to be less varied than in countries further south and are usually based around millet, rice or niebé, a type of bean that has become an important crop. Beef and mutton are common in the Hausa country and the nomadic regions of the north. In both areas, brochettes are sold in the streets. Foura, which consists of small balls of ground and slightly fermented millet crushed with milk, sugar and spices, is a speciality. African, Asian and European dishes are also served, particularly in Niamey, using local fish, meat and vegetables. Niger’s most popular drink is tea, which is available everywhere from street stalls. There is also a good selection of imported beverages. Alcohol is available, but there are restrictions because of Muslim beliefs and traditions. Nightlife In Niamey, there are several nightclubs with music and dancing. There are also three open-air cinemas in the capital. Shopping Markets in the main towns, notably Niamey and Agadez, sell a range of local artefacts. The Centre des Métiers d’Art de Niger, close to the National Museum, is worth visiting, as a wide range of local goods can be bought there. Courteous bargaining is expected and items include multicoloured blankets, leather goods, engraved calabashes, silver jewellery, swords and knives. Shopping hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1200 and 1600-1900, Sat 0800-1200. Special Events The Peulh people celebrate the end of the rainy season with a lively festival. Also of interest is the Cure Salée, when the nomads gather their cattle to lead them to the new pastures; a highlight of this is the gerewol festival of the nomadic Wodaabé tribe. The following is a selection of special events celebrated annually in Niger: Jan Nwaotam Festival, Port Harcourt. Feb Durbar Festival; Argungu Fishing & Cultural Festival, Sokoto River. Apr National Festival Day. Jul Shango Festival, Lagos. Aug Pategi Regatta; Oshun Festival at Oshogo. Oct 1 Independence Day celebrations. Dec Nwaotam Festival, Port Harcourt. Social Conventions Handshaking is customary. Casual wear is widely suitable. Women should avoid wearing revealing clothes. Traditional beliefs and Muslim customs should be respected. Photography: Permits are required for photography and filming, and can be obtained from police stations. Tour operators and tourist bureaux are often able to make arrangements. Film is expensive and local facilities for processing film are not always good. Ask local people for permission before taking their photographs. Military installations, airports and administrative buildings (including the Presidential Palace) should not be photographed. Tipping: Expected for most services, usually 10 per cent. Most hotels add a 10 to 15 per cent service charge. |