Music in West Africa: Senegal Part I

Previously, I covered Malian music: Part I, Part II, Part III, and Part IV. In April, I will visit Senegal for the first time. While it will be my first trip there, I have long been familiar, and occasionally obsessed with, Senegalese music. The dominant genre in...

I Haven’t had a “Job” in 8 Months and That’s OK

The last day I worked a conventional job was sometime in late June 2010. It is now March 2011. I don’t have a lot of money. I traveled for six months last year and I recently bought a one way plane ticket back to West Africa. How is this possible? 1. I saved...

Quick Update on Cote d’Ivoire

Thank you to everyone that has spread the word about Cote D’Ivoire. CNN ran the story and video from the women’s march. It’s a start. A few updates: – Power has been restored to Northern Cote D’Ivoire. Water is still cut in most areas....

Cote d’Ivoire Needs One Minute of Your Time

I was upset and worried. Now I’m legitimately angry. I still can’t get through to my friends. People on twitter are saying that there are roadblocks around Yopougon, the neighborhood they live in. I’ll admit this is personal, but it is outrageous...

The Story No One is Talking About

Libya deserves all the attention it’s getting. Gadhafi is a criminal and there are horrific things happening in that country right now. But news networks can afford a few words and pictures on Cote d’Ivoire. For background on the Ivorian crisis, read this...