Niamey, Capital city on Niger River, Niger
Niamey is the capital of Niger on the Niger River and spreads across both riverbanks, linked by two bridges. The settlement is divided into five communes with a total of 44 districts, each maintaining its own administrative structures.
The settlement began in the 18th century as small farming villages along the riverbank. In 1926, it was designated the capital of the Niger colony under French administration.
The National Museum displays pottery and jewelry from different regions and keeps traditional clay buildings in its courtyards. Crocodiles and monkeys live on the grounds, which children from nearby neighborhoods often visit in the afternoon.
The Diori Hamani airport connects the city to neighboring countries and regional destinations. Boats operate on the river and serve as transport for short distances within the city.
The Kennedy Bridge and the Friendship Bridge built in 1970 link the two riverbanks and carry daily traffic between neighborhoods. In the evening, vendors and pedestrians often gather on the Friendship Bridge to watch the sunset over the water.
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