Bamako bounces back

By Fleur Macdonald

For a while, it was touch and go whether the first Festival Acoustik Bamako (FAB) would take place. After terrorists attacked the Radisson Hotel in November, the Malian government declared a state of emergency, which is still in effect. Putting on a four-day event with international guests was always going to be a challenge. But the mantra of FAB, and Bamako at large, seemed to be “life must go on”, and life in Mali – despite what jihadists and fundamentalists might think – means singing, dancing and playing music. So FAB went ahead with more guards (particularly when the First Lady attended), in closed venues and with liberal use of body scanners.

It was a chance to show off Mali’s rich musical tradition – it is home to some of the biggest names in world music, including Ali Farka Touré, Salif Keita, Oumou Sangaré – but also its dynamism and modernity. It was the first truly international concert held in Bamako for years. And this, according to Igu Diarra, the director of Medina, a local gallery, was important for Malians. “Some of my artists haven’t wanted to come to Mali recently, or couldn’t get insurance. When we see people are ready to come, it’s a sign that things are getting better.”