…which was a very interesting experience indeed. Have a look:

And if it’s flip-flops you want, here’s the place (though they were cheaper in Benin…)

And, of course, West African cuisine wouldn’t be complete without the ubiquitous Maggi Cube. You may remember that Cotonou had a whole water tower devoted to the Maggi Cube (until a mobile phone network repainted it), which I blogged about here. Looks like Bamako has to make do with a Maggi van for the time being at least…

However, the most intriguing bit of the market was these guys with their giant mallets. Any guesses what they’re doing and why? Leave me your suggestions and I’ll let you know the answer in a week or so:

Other news:

* We’re all moved in and settling into our new home.
* The back yard has a serious mosquito problem, though hardly any have made it into the house. A bloke is coming to spray the whole area tomorrow.
* It’s our wedding anniversary tomorrow, so I’m taking Lois to a nice place by the river for a romantic meal.
* Also tomorrow, the Baker family gains a new addition. Watch this space…