Discovering Quartier Plateau 7: Niamey's Hidden Gem

• HelloSannu
  [sah-noo]
• GoodbyeSannu da aiki
  [sah-noo dah ah-ee-kee]
• YesEh
  [eh]
• NoA'a
  [ah-ah]
• Please/You're welcomeDa so
  [dah soh]
• Thank youNa gode
  [nah goh-deh]
• Excuse me/SorrySai an jima
  [sah-ee ahn jee-mah]
• How are you?Yaya ke?
  [yah-yah keh]
• Fine. And you?Lafiya. Kana lafiya?
  [lah-fee-yah. kah-nah lah-fee-yah]
• Do you speak English?Kana jin Turanci?
  [kah-nah jeen too-rahn-chee]
• I don't understandBan fahimci ba
  [bahn fah-heem-chee bah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIna son duba menu, don Allah
  [ee-nah sohn doo-bah meh-noo, dohn ah-lah]
• I don't eat meatBan samu nama
  [bahn sah-moo nah-mah]
• 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!
  [tai-mah-kah]
• Go away!Zo kusa!
  [zoh koo-sah]
• Call the Police!Kira yan sanda!
  [kee-rah yahn sahn-dah]
• Call a doctor!Kira dokin
  [kee-rah doh-keen]
• I'm lostNa gudu
  [nah goo-doo]
• I'm illNa da lafiya
  [nah dah lah-fee-yah]

• I'd like to buy...Ina so ku gaba...
  [ee-nah soh koo gah-bah]
• I'm just lookingNa yi duba gare ku
  [nah yee doo-bah gah-reh koo]
• How much is it?Shi ne lokaci?
  [she neh loh-kah-chee]
• That's too expensiveWannan ya fi kudi
  [wahn-nahn yah fee koo-dee]
• Can you lower the price?Zaka iya sake fama?
  [zah-kah ee-yah sah-keh fah-mah]

• What time is it?Yaya lokaci ne?
  [yah-yah loh-kah-chee neh]
• It's one o'clockShi ne bakin dare
  [she neh bah-keen dah-reh]
• Half past (10)Da rabi (goma sha 10)
  [dah rah-bee goh-mah shah 10]
• MorningSafe
  [sah-feh]
• AfternoonRana
  [rah-nah]
• EveningYamma
  [yahm-mah]
• YesterdayJibi
  [jee-bee]
• TodayYau
  [yah-oo]
• TomorrowGobe
  [goh-beh]
• 1Daya
  [dah-yah]
• 2Biyu
  [bee-yoo]
• 3Uku
  [oo-koo]
• 4Huɗu
  [hoo-doo]
• 5Biɗa
  [bee-dah]
• 6Shida
  [shee-dah]
• 7Bakwai
  [bahk-wai]
• 8Takwas
  [tah-kwahs]
• 9Tara
  [tah-rah]
• 10Goma
  [goh-mah]

• Where's a/the...?Ina...
  [ee-nah]
• What's the address?Yaya an bar wucewa?
  [yah-yah ahn bahr woo-chay-wah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Zaka iya nuna min (a cikin rubutu)?
  [zah-kah ee-yah noo-nah meen (ah chee-keen roo-boo-too)]
• When's the next (bus)?Yaya lokacin maɗauka ne?
  [yah-yah loh-kah-cheen mah-dow-kah neh]
• A ticket (to ....)Takiti (zuwa....)
  [tah-kee-tee (zoo-wah)]

Quartier Plateau 7, like much of Niamey, was shaped significantly during the French colonial era in the early 20th century. The French established administrative and military posts in the city, leading to urban planning that incorporated European architectural styles. This period laid the groundwork for the modern layout of Quartier Plateau 7, which became a residential area that reflects the blend of indigenous and colonial influences.

Following Niger's independence from France in 1960, Quartier Plateau 7 experienced a cultural renaissance. As the capital's administrative and political importance grew, the neighborhood became a hub for cultural institutions and events. This period saw the establishment of local markets and community centers, fostering a vibrant atmosphere where traditional Nigerien culture thrived alongside modern influences.

The 1990s were marked by political turmoil and social change in Niger, which affected Quartier Plateau 7. Amidst a backdrop of democratization and civil unrest, the neighborhood became a focal point for political activism. Community leaders and residents organized forums and discussions on governance and human rights, reflecting the broader national dialogue on democracy and civic engagement.

In the 21st century, Quartier Plateau 7 has faced the challenges of rapid urbanization. As Niamey continues to grow, the neighborhood has seen an influx of residents and informal settlements. Infrastructure development has struggled to keep pace with population growth, leading to issues such as inadequate housing and public services. Despite these challenges, Quartier Plateau 7 remains a vibrant community, characterized by its resilience and rich cultural life.

Today, Quartier Plateau 7 is recognized for its cultural heritage and community initiatives aimed at preserving local traditions. Artisans, musicians, and cultural organizations actively promote Nigerien heritage through festivals, exhibitions, and educational programs. This focus on cultural preservation plays a crucial role in fostering a sense of identity and unity among residents while attracting visitors interested in experiencing the local culture.

Quartier Plateau 7 is situated in the heart of Niamey, making it easily accessible from various neighborhoods. From the airport, you can take a taxi, which typically takes about 20 minutes. If you're coming from downtown Niamey, local taxis and motorbike taxis (zems) are widely available and can take you directly to Quartier Plateau 7. Buses also operate along major routes, but they may not directly connect to this neighborhood.

In Quartier Plateau 7, the primary means of transportation are taxis and zems. Taxis are affordable and can be hailed directly or booked via local taxi services. Bicycles are also an option, with some rental shops available in the area. Walking is encouraged for short distances, as many local attractions are within easy reach.

Quartier Plateau 7 is generally safe for tourists; however, standard precautions are advisable. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated areas. Be cautious around the vicinity of the central market, as it can attract pickpockets. It's best to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas where tourists may be targeted.

In case of an emergency, dial 17 for police assistance and 15 for medical emergencies. The region has several hospitals and clinics, including the National Hospital of Niamey. It's wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are available, and they often have English-speaking staff.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly in public areas and when visiting markets. Don’t wear revealing clothing. Religion: Do show respect for local customs and traditions; it’s advisable to cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to the elderly. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake and a smile, as greetings are important. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offered by locals. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it may be seen as rude.

To experience Quartier Plateau 7 like a local, visit the nearby markets for fresh produce and traditional crafts. Engage with vendors and locals, who are often friendly and eager to share stories. Don’t miss the chance to try local street food, such as 'djerma' (a type of grilled meat) or 'foutou,' which can be found in various food stalls. Participating in local festivals or cultural events can also provide deeper insights into the community.