Quartier Plateau 2: Niamey's Hidden Gem

• HelloSannu
  [sahn-nuu]
• GoodbyeSai watarana
  [sahy wah-tah-rah-nah]
• YesEh
  [ay]
• NoA'a
  [ah-ah]
• Please/You're welcomeDa so
  [dah soh]
• Thank youNa gode
  [nah goh-deh]
• Excuse me/SorrySamu
  [sah-moo]
• How are you?Yaya kake?
  [yah-yah kah-keh]
• Fine. And you?Lafiya. Kana lafiya?
  [lah-fee-yah. kah-nah lah-fee-yah]
• Do you speak English?Kana magana da Turanci?
  [kah-nah mah-gah-nah dah too-rahn-chee]
• I don't understandBan fahimci
  [bahn fah-heem-chee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIna son ganin menu, don Allah
  [ee-nah sohn gah-neen meh-noo, dohn ah-lah]
• I don't eat meatBan jin gori
  [bahn jeen goh-ree]
• Cheers!Barka da shan ruwa!
  [bar-kah dah shahn roo-wah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseIna son yi kudi, don Allah
  [ee-nah sohn yee koo-dee, dohn ah-lah]

• Help!Taimaka!
  [tahee-mah-kah]
• Go away!Huta!
  [hoo-tah]
• Call the Police!Kira Yan Sanda!
  [kee-rah yahn sahn-dah]
• Call a doctor!Kira Tabarbare!
  [kee-rah tah-bahr-bah-reh]
• I'm lostNa kasa
  [nah kah-sah]
• I'm illNa yi maganin
  [nah yee mah-gah-neen]

• I'd like to buy...Ina son sayan...
  [ee-nah sohn sah-yahn...]
• I'm just lookingBan taba ganin
  [bahn tah-bah gah-neen]
• How much is it?Yi haɗa mafiya?
  [yee hah-dah mah-fee-yah]
• That's too expensiveWannan ya fi
  [wahn-nahn yah fee]
• Can you lower the price?Za ka iya sake ɗaukar mafiya?
  [zah kah ee-yah sah-keh dah-oo-kahr mah-fee-yah]

• What time is it?Wane lokaci ne?
  [wah-neh loh-kah-chee neh]
• It's one o'clockAn bude
  [ahn boo-deh]
• Half past (10)Wata da goma (ashirin)
  [wah-tah dah go-mah ah-shee-reen]
• MorningYauwa
  [yah-oo-wah]
• AfternoonYamma
  [yahm-mah]
• EveningYamma
  [yahm-mah]
• YesterdayJibi
  [jee-bee]
• TodayYau
  [yah-oo]
• TomorrowGobe
  [goh-beh]
• 1Daya
  [dah-yah]
• 2Biyu
  [bee-yoo]
• 3Uku
  [oo-koo]
• 4Huɗu
  [hoo-doo]
• 5Biɗi
  [bee-dee]
• 6Shida
  [shee-dah]
• 7Bakwai
  [bah-kwai]
• 8Takwas
  [tah-kwahs]
• 9Tara
  [tah-rah]
• 10Goma
  [go-mah]

• Where's a/the...?Ina...
  [ee-nah...]
• What's the address?Lokacin lambar?
  [loh-kah-cheen lahm-bahr]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Za ka nuna mini (a cikin rubutu)?
  [zah kah noo-nah mee-nee (ah chee-keen roo-boo-too)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wane lokaci ne (motar)?
  [wah-neh loh-kah-chee neh (moh-tahr)]
• A ticket (to ....)Tikiti (zuwa ....)
  [tee-kee-tee (zoo-wah)]

Quartier Plateau 2 in Niamey emerged during the colonial period when Niger was a French colony. The establishment of administrative and military infrastructures in the early 20th century led to urban planning initiatives that shaped the layout of modern Niamey. Quartier Plateau 2, being proximate to the city center, became a hub for colonial administration, influencing its architectural styles and urban character.

Following Niger's independence in 1960, Quartier Plateau 2 experienced significant demographic changes and urban expansion as the capital city grew. The neighborhood became a melting pot of cultures as people from various regions of Niger migrated to Niamey for economic opportunities. This influx contributed to the vibrant community life and the establishment of local markets, schools, and cultural institutions.

Quartier Plateau 2 is known for its rich cultural diversity, reflecting the various ethnic groups of Niger, including the Hausa, Zarma, and Tuareg. This diversity is celebrated through local festivals, music, and art, showcasing traditional crafts and culinary practices. The neighborhood plays an essential role in preserving Nigerien culture, with local artisans and musicians contributing to its cultural landscape.

The socio-political climate in Niger, particularly during periods of instability and military rule, has influenced the development of Quartier Plateau 2. Events such as the coup d'états in the 1990s led to shifts in demographics and economic conditions within the neighborhood. Community resilience became evident as residents adapted to changing circumstances, fostering a strong sense of solidarity.

As Niamey continues to grow, Quartier Plateau 2 faces modern urban challenges, including infrastructure development, housing shortages, and environmental concerns. Initiatives to improve urban planning and public services are ongoing, reflecting the neighborhood's importance within the broader context of Niamey's development. The community remains actively engaged in discussions about sustainable growth and preserving its cultural heritage amid urbanization.

Quartier Plateau 2 is centrally located in Niamey, making it accessible from various neighbourhoods. You can take a taxi or a motorcycle taxi (zanzo) for a quick and convenient ride. Public minibuses (taxis collectifs) operate routes throughout the city, including stops near Quartier Plateau 2. The nearest major transport hub is the Niamey Grand Market, where you can find connections to other parts of the city.

Quartier Plateau 2 is best explored on foot, as many attractions, shops, and eateries are within walking distance. For longer distances, you can rely on motorcycles (zanzo) or taxis, which are abundant and relatively inexpensive. Public buses are also available, but they may not always follow a strict schedule. Bicycles can be rented in the area for those looking to explore more actively.

Quartier Plateau 2 is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuable items and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas. While violent crime is rare, certain areas, especially at night, should be approached with caution. It is advisable to avoid poorly lit streets and alleyways after dark.

In case of an emergency, dial 17 for police assistance or 18 for fire services. For medical emergencies, seek the nearest hospital or clinic; the Centre Hospitalier National (CHN) is a major facility in Niamey. It is wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues, and many have English-speaking staff.

Fashion: Do dress conservatively; loose-fitting and modest attire is recommended. Avoid shorts and sleeveless tops, especially in religious or formal settings. Religion: Do show respect for local customs; always ask permission before taking photos at religious sites. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for elderly passengers. Don't engage in loud conversations or eat on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a handshake and use 'Bonjour' during the day. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and beverages, such as 'djerma' (a local stew). Don't refuse food offered to you, as it can be seen as impolite.

To experience Quartier Plateau 2 like a local, visit the bustling markets where you can find fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with local vendors, as they often have stories to share about their products. Don't miss trying local snacks from street vendors, such as grilled meat skewers (brochettes). If you're looking for a unique experience, attend a local festival or cultural event if your visit coincides with one.