L'obélisque des idéogrammes, Bamako Travel Guide

L'obélisque des idéogrammes, located in the Hamdallaye ACI 2000 area of Bamako, is dedicated to the N'Ko writing system. The monument features a quadrangular block emerging from a raised circular tower, accessible by stairs. The column, topped with a pyramidal summit, draws inspiration from ancient Egyptian art.Engraved on all four sides are texts in N'ko, Bozo, Bambara, and Dogon ideograms. These writings evoke the resilience of the Mandé, the historical region encompassing present-day Mali, symbolizing a boat that sways on the waves without capsizing. The N'ko script, created in 1949 for the Mandé languages of West Africa, is increasingly popular in the region.The obelisk serves as a reminder of African culture and the existence of indigenous African writing systems. It stands as a symbol of unity, reminiscent of the Tondi Darou megaliths near Goundam. The monument was erected under the presidency of Alpha Oumar Konaré, with the support of his Minister of Culture, Pascal Baba Koulibaly.