Lome

10 FEBRUARY 2023

The International Museum of the Gulf Of Guinea is along the east end of the beach from road. Its an incredible space filled with sculptures from each of the West African countries.

Collected over a period of 30 years, this celebration of W African art and customs sits within the walls of the residency of Xie Yanshen. Although, he now resides in China, the collection will stay in Togo and as its owner hopes, be safe and endure the changing political periods in their respective countries.

The Marche des Feticheurs, is a fascinating place to learn more about Voodoo ceremonies and rituals. A guide will explain the relevance of the numerous bones, sculls, animals and bird remains, herbs and powders - everything having significance either for a sacrifice or for a ritual.

I also visited the herbal healers room, where Atchedo performed a short ritual to protect me on my travels. I was given a charm made of a piece of wood to wear around my neck.