From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring La Nouvelle Liberté.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
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.
La Nouvelle Liberté is a towering sculpture in Douala, Cameroon, created by Joseph-Francis Sumégné in 1996. Made from recycled metal, it embodies the city's spirit of freedom, resilience, and cultural identity.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to La Nouvelle Liberté
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
4802 Bd de la Liberté, Douala, Akwa I, CM
Monday
10 am-9:30 pm
Tuesday
10 am-9:30 pm
Wednesday
10 am-9:30 pm
Thursday
10 am-9:30 pm
Friday
10 am-9 pm
Saturday
10 am-9 pm
Sunday
10 am-9:30 pm
Discover more about La Nouvelle Liberté
La Nouvelle Liberté, meaning 'The New Liberty', stands as a powerful symbol in the heart of Douala, Cameroon. Created in 1996 by Cameroonian artist Joseph-Francis Sumégné, this majestic 12-meter-tall sculpture is crafted from recycled metal, reflecting the city's contemporary culture of recycling and resourcefulness.The sculpture has a wingspan of 5 meters and a mass of 8 tons. It pays homage to the ability of citizens to 'se débrouiller' (get by) in complex situations. Despite becoming an icon, it was initially nicknamed 'Njo Njo' (the evil) due to protests over its aesthetics and the artist's origins. These controversies even led to vandalism.Today, La Nouvelle Liberté stands as a testament to the resilience and spirit of the Cameroonian people. It is a gathering place for celebrations, artistic performances, and community events. The surrounding area in the Akwa district is vibrant, filled with shops, cafes, and local artisans. The site is often filled with local artists, musicians, and vendors, creating a bustling cultural hub.
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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. Look for the large roundabout (rond-point) where the sculpture stands. It's a well-known landmark, and locals can provide directions.
Public Transport
While Douala doesn't have a formal public transit system, private bus companies operate routes throughout the city. Inquire about buses heading to Akwa or the Deido roundabout. From the bus stop, you may need to walk a short distance to reach the monument.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Douala. Negotiate the fare before entering the taxi. A short taxi ride within Akwa should cost approximately 1500 XAF, depending on the distance and traffic. Ask to be dropped off at 'La Nouvelle Liberté' or the 'Rond-Point Deido'.
A brief summary to La Nouvelle Liberté
Use La Nouvelle Liberté as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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