There is a lot to see in Bamako. You can call upon the city's many taxis to get to all of the sights. They should never cost you more than 1500 FCFA (3$ US). I recommend a visit to the National Museum, the Botanical gardens and to one of Bamako's many markets.

Nevertheless, I also want to recommend a small art gallery, FERE KENE, in the district Hamdallaye ACI 2000. This gallery space showcases the work of local artists. It was created in 2001 by the organization AJA MALI to provide local artists with a space to sell their goods, thereby appealing to a larger market. The organisation, more generally, works with the artists on a long-term basis and teaches them the importance of creating their goods according to fair trade standards, and the essentials of running their own business.

AJA's main goal is to eradicate unemployment in Mali by equipping the local population with the necessary skills to become self-sufficient and generate income. They provide training sessions to youth ages 15-35 in the arts, woodwork, tourism, metalwork, as well as instruction on how to run a small business

A trip to this gallery is well worth it as it offers tourists a chance to enjoy the wonderful artwork of local Malians and an opportunity to support the domestic economy. It is also a chance to do some one stop shopping at fixed prices in a tranquil environment before heading home!

Address: www.ajamali.org
Street 432 Door 1102 near the ABK6 Building
Hamdallaye ACI 2000
Tel: +223 20 29 58 21 Cell: 66 82 22 17
Email: tatagada2003@yahoo.fr

Open: Monday- Friday 8:00h - 16:00h