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La Nouvelle Liberté: A Symbol of Douala

Discover La Nouvelle Liberté in Douala: a towering symbol of freedom, resilience, and the city's vibrant culture, crafted from recycled materials.

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La Nouvelle Liberté, a towering sculpture in Douala's Deido neighborhood, stands as a powerful symbol of freedom and the city's spirit of recycling and resourcefulness. Created in 1996 by Joseph-Francis Sumégné from reclaimed metal, it has become an iconic landmark despite initial controversy, representing Douala's resilience and identity.

A brief summary to La Nouvelle Liberté

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Engage with local artists and vendors around the monument for an authentic cultural experience.
  • Take a stroll around the surrounding Akwa district to discover more about Douala's vibrant street life, shops, and cafes.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    La Nouvelle Liberté is located in the Akwa district, a central and bustling area of Douala. From many points in Akwa, the monument is easily accessible by foot. Simply head towards the Deido roundabout; the towering sculpture is easily visible. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    While Douala doesn't have a formal public transit system, several private companies offer bus services throughout the city. From the Gare Routière (main bus station), you can take a local taxi or 'moto-taxi' (motorbike taxi) to Boulevard de la Liberté. Inform the driver to take you to La Nouvelle Liberté at 4802 Boulevard de la Liberté. Bus fares vary, but a taxi from the bus station should cost approximately 1000-1500 CFA.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Douala. A short taxi ride within the city center to La Nouvelle Liberté should cost around 1500-2500 CFA, depending on the distance and traffic. Ensure the driver knows the destination: La Nouvelle Liberté on Boulevard de la Liberté.

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Discover more about La Nouvelle Liberté

La Nouvelle Liberté, also known as the New Freedom monument, is a celebrated landmark in Douala, Cameroon, located in the Deido neighborhood. Created in 1996 by Joseph-Francis Sumégné, the majestic 12-meter-high sculpture is constructed from reclaimed iron and stands in the middle of the Deido roundabout, one of Douala's busiest intersections. The sculpture pays homage to a contemporary practice in the city: the culture of recycling, dismantling, and reassembling objects, showcasing the citizens' ability to adapt and manage in complex situations. The artwork was sponsored by doual'art and donated to the Municipality of Douala. Despite now being an icon, it was initially nicknamed the 'Nju Nau' (bad spirit) due to strong protests from indigenous populations. The controversy involved the artist's origins and perceived ethnic tensions. La Nouvelle Liberté was officially inaugurated eleven years later during SUD2007. The roundabout is considered the gateway to the city, linking the main boulevards to the city center, eastern districts, and out of Douala via the Wouri Bridge. The Municipality has invested in the area's urbanization, including the removal of informal markets and installation of streetlights. Today, La Nouvelle Liberté stands as a testament to Douala's spirit, resilience, and artistic expression.

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