African Trade

I know, I know. You thought I was done with Africa pictures. Think again, my friend, think again. ;) How could you possibly conclude your African tour without going to market?

The women strap their babies to their backs in a fabric sling, balance their containers on top of their heads and begin the journey to market to purchase what they can't grow or make in their own camp.

And, apparently, this makes them VERY happy!

Once they get to the market village, they begin to barter and trade for goods. Food stuffs, fabric, cooking utensils, weapons, jewelry, etc. Looks like waffles and pizza are on the menu today.

Once a deal is struck, the women compare their new treasures and share the village gossip.

Pleased with her purchases, this native carries her goods and her child back to camp. But watch out! She has to cross the river and there's a mean tempered hippo waiting! Think it'll eat waffles?

Back at camp, the natives weave kente cloth.

In actuality, kente cloth is woven by the men of the tribe, and each strip is only 4 inches wide. Once there's enough kente to create a piece of clothing, the strips are sewn together.

These natives are "weaving" placemats because they sell better to the tourists. You want to buy one, don't you?

Or do you want to trade for it?