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La Nouvelle Liberté: A Symbol of Douala

Discover La Nouvelle Liberté in Douala: a towering symbol of freedom, resilience, and Cameroonian heritage at the heart of the city's vibrant Deido neighborhood.

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La Nouvelle Liberté, a towering sculpture in Douala's Deido neighborhood, stands as a powerful symbol of the city and the Cameroonian people. Created by Joseph-Francis Sumegne in 1996, the monument embodies freedom, hope, and the spirit of recycling and resourcefulness.

A brief summary to La Nouvelle Liberté

Local tips

  • Visit in the late afternoon or early evening to see the monument beautifully illuminated.
  • Engage with local artists and vendors around the monument for an authentic cultural experience.
  • Take a walk around the Akwa district, where La Nouvelle Liberté is located, to explore shops, cafes, and street life.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    La Nouvelle Liberté is located in the Deido neighborhood, specifically at the Rond-Point Deido. From most points in Deido, the monument is easily accessible by foot. Simply head towards the large roundabout; the sculpture is impossible to miss. Note that the area can be busy with traffic.

  • Public Transport

    While Douala doesn't have a formal public transport system, several private bus companies operate in the city. From other parts of Douala, you can take a bus or shared taxi towards Deido. Ask to be dropped off near the Rond-Point Deido. Bus fares typically range from 250-500 CFA. From there, it's a short walk to the monument.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Douala. You can either hail one on the street or have your hotel call one for you. Ask to be taken to La Nouvelle Liberté at Rond-Point Deido. A short taxi ride within the city should cost approximately 1500-2500 CFA, but negotiate the price before you get in. Motorbike taxis ('benskin') are also an option for a quicker ride, with fares around 500-1000 CFA.

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Discover more about La Nouvelle Liberté

La Nouvelle Liberté (The New Freedom) is more than just a landmark; it's a vibrant testament to Douala's cultural identity. Erected in 1996 and officially inaugurated in 2007, this monumental sculpture, designed by Joseph-Francis Sumegne, embodies the spirit of freedom, hope, and the rich heritage of Cameroon. Standing at 12 meters tall and constructed from recycled iron, La Nouvelle Liberté pays homage to Douala's contemporary culture of recycling, dismantling, and reassembling objects. The sculpture has become a symbol of the city, representing the ability of its citizens to find solutions in complex situations. Located at the Rond-Point Deido, one of Douala's busiest traffic hubs, La Nouvelle Liberté marks the gateway to the city. The roundabout connects major boulevards leading to the city center, eastern districts, and out of Douala via the Wouri Bridge. The area surrounding the monument is a bustling hub of activity, with local artists, musicians, and vendors creating a lively atmosphere. Despite initial controversies and protests, La Nouvelle Liberté has become an iconic symbol of Douala. The Municipality of Douala has invested in urbanizing the Rond-Point Deido, evicting informal markets, installing streetlights, and maintaining the roundabout garden. Visiting La Nouvelle Liberté offers a captivating experience, allowing you to connect with the heart of Douala and its enduring spirit.

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