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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 culture crafted from recycled materials.

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La Nouvelle Liberté, erected in 1996, stands as a towering sculpture in Douala, Cameroon, embodying the city's spirit of freedom and resilience. Created from recycled materials by Joseph-Francis Sumégné, it has become an iconic landmark despite initial controversies.

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 vendors and artists around the monument for an authentic cultural experience.
  • Take a walk around the surrounding Akwa district to explore shops, cafes, and vibrant street life.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Akwa I neighborhood, La Nouvelle Liberté is easily accessible on foot. ориентируйтесь по оживленному бульвару de la Liberté, следуя по направлению к северу. The monument is located at 4802 Bd de la Liberté and is easily visible from a distance.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines serve the Akwa district. Disembark at a stop along Boulevard de la Liberté near Akwa I. From there, La Nouvelle Liberté is a short walk away. Bus fares typically range from 200-500 XAF.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Douala. A short taxi ride from the Douala city center (e.g., near the Cathédrale Saints Pierre et Paul) to La Nouvelle Liberté will cost approximately 1500 XAF, depending on traffic and negotiation. Ensure the meter is running or negotiate the fare before starting your journey.

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Discover more about La Nouvelle Liberté

La Nouvelle Liberté, also known as 'The New Freedom', is more than just a monument; it's a vibrant symbol of Douala's cultural identity and the Cameroonian people's enduring spirit. Created in 1996 by Joseph-Francis Sumégné, this 12-meter-tall sculpture is constructed from recycled metal, reflecting the city's culture of recycling and resourcefulness. Located at the Rond-Point Deïdo, a major traffic hub, La Nouvelle Liberté serves as a gateway to the city. The artwork pays homage to the contemporary culture of Douala: the culture of recycling, of the assembly and disassembly of objects, of the ability of citizens in “se débrouiller” (getting by) in many complex situations. Initially met with controversy due to its aesthetics and the artist's origins, the sculpture has overcome these challenges to become a beloved landmark. It stands as a testament to the city's resilience and the power of art to spark dialogue and transformation. Today, La Nouvelle Liberté is a gathering place for celebrations, artistic performances, and community events. Interacting with locals and hearing their stories about the monument enriches the visitor experience, offering a deeper connection to the heart of Douala.

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