A Stranger at First, Now Feeling at Home

Living in a new country always comes with surprises. When I first arrived in this part of West Africa, I was full of excitement and curiosity, but I quickly realized that adapting to a new environment is not always easy. From the daily routine to the general atmosphere, everything felt… different.

One of the first things I noticed was the contrast in infrastructure and lifestyle. The roads are a bit chaotic, and traffic rules sometimes feel more like suggestions than laws. Public sanitation and hygiene practices also differ from what I was used to, and it took me some time to adjust. These shaped how I navigated the environment every day.

I had heard before that many African countries face development challenges, but experiencing it first-hand gave me a deeper understanding. Access to consistent electricity, stable internet, and clean surroundings is not always guaranteed. Communication, too, presented a challenge; many people speak their local language, and not everyone is fluent in French or English, making conversations more reliant on body language and good humour. I observed overcrowded classrooms and limited resources.  I also saw a lot of determination in the faces of students. Poverty is visible, yes, but so is resilience.

So far, this place has shown me some of the warmest hospitality I’ve ever experienced. During Eid, I was invited by a friend to celebrate with their family. The love, food, and laughter made me feel at home, even though I couldn’t speak the local language. A few hand gestures and smiles were enough to break the ice. Culture and religion are blended here. It’s hard to separate one from the other, and I find that beautiful. The sense of community, shared beliefs, and traditions give this society a heartbeat that’s hard to miss.

So yes, there are challenges. Yes, a lot still needs to be done to improve daily living conditions. But this place has taught me a lot already: to be patient, to listen more, and to adapt with an open mind.

PS: These are just personal observations from someone trying to learn, not judge. I’ve come to respect this land and its people. And for now, I’m simply grateful to be here, alive, learning and growing.

Until next time!