The city Zoo in Bamako, Mali, supported by the Aga Khan Development Network

Bamako is a busy city with a population of almost 2 million. The political situation is difficult. 

Biker in Bamako

But just outside of the downtown area, you have the Mali national park which is like an oasis in the city. People come to relax, to picnic, to do sports and, soon, they will be able to visit the newly fixed up zoo as well.

I spent a few days in Bamako and photographed what is an amazing zoo.. This city zoo was run down and falling apart. The animals lived in poor conditions. The AKDN has funded a full redevelopment of the zoo as well as of the surrounding city park. The zoo has got top standards and looks after the animals in the best possible way. It also offers a great educational function for the population in this region.

This young boy shows off the insects he has found.

Mali national zoo

There is a 3 year old elephant at the zoo. Unfortunately she had a tough start to her life but is now getting the best attention and care he can in this zoo, given the circumstances. 

The elephant and staff clearly had a great bond

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