Nganji states that the mode of travel influences his perspective on life in the capital. Depending on whether he is in a private air-conditioned car, an overflowing public bus, or on foot, he experiences the city differently.
Photography and Urban Life
This World Population Day, photographers in Africa showcase life in bustling cities. Cairo, for instance, is home to 12 million residents, creating a vibrant and continuous flow of activity. The frenetic pace is captured through innovative photographic collages.
Visiting Mosques and Parks
Although mosques typically serve as peaceful retreats, during Ramadan they become crowded with worshippers well into the night.Amidst Cairo’s dense urban landscape, Al Azhar Park remains one of the few serene public spaces, providing a respite for city dwellers.
Capturing the Fragmented Experience
Barkatulla and Akhtar intentionally create a “fragmented” look in their artwork. They artfully weave moments into collages, highlighting the energetic and unpredictable nature of urban life.
The Iconic El Fishawy Cafe
El Fishawy Cafe stands as a lively and historic meeting spot for both locals and visitors, showcasing the vibrancy of the city.
Public Spaces and Community
In Cairo, public areas are often creatively reused, as exemplified by children playing soccer in the remnants of the neglected Qaitbey Mosque.
Insights from Nigeria
Photographer Andrew Esiebo encapsulates the rapid urban development in Lagos, highlighting the dynamism of the city and its people.
Documenting Resilience in Makoko
Makoko, a floating slum in Lagos, is home to about 250,000 individuals. Photographer Esiebo aims to portray the resilience and hopeful spirit of its residents.
The Significance of Public Gatherings
Esiebo is captivated by the large turnouts at Pentecostal gatherings in Lagos, which serve as spiritual hubs for many, embodying communal hope and devotion.
Cultural Expression in Markets
Balogun Textile Market is a vibrant representation of Lagos, showcasing colorful fabrics that reflect the city’s diversity and culture.
The Impact of Nollywood
Nollywood, Nigeria’s film industry, is a source of entertainment found throughout Lagos, often enjoyed in public spaces by those without access to personal televisions.
Understanding Chaos in Urban Life
Lagos presents a seemingly chaotic environment. Yet, the city offers a unique resilience as residents deftly navigate its complexities to reach their destinations.
Highlighting Individual Freedom in Kinshasa
Congo-born photographer Nganji finds beauty in isolation within the bustling streets of Kinshasa, capturing fleeting yet authentic moments of street life.Nganji explains how life in Kinshasa is intertwined with its population dynamics, where informal economic activities are prevalent and creativity is key to navigating social inequalities.Due to poor infrastructure and historical challenges, Congolese often rely on the concept of ‘Article 15’—a guiding principle shaping everyday survival strategies.Nganji believes that isolating subjects amidst the crowd emphasizes individual freedom, providing a deeper understanding of democracy in an urban context.
