Africa is a continent rich in natural beauty, cultural diversity, and exotic wildlife. Divided into five regions namely Northern Africa, Central or Middle Africa, Southern Africa, East Africa, and Western Africa, each country within the regions offers tourists, visiting Africa an exceptional experience not found anywhere else.

In West Africa, there are local shops that offer tourists an opportunity to experience a deeper appreciation of Africa and its people, history, and challenges which in turn helps in breaking down stereotypes and promote cultural understanding.

Here are some local shops to visit in some of these countries that make up the West Africa region;

Senegal – Loman Art House

Image: Loman Art House. Source: Tripadvisor, Credit belongs to respective owner.

Located in the capital city of Dakar, and not less than a 20-minute walk from Ouakam beach, the Loman Art House is an art gallery that offers visitors a rich taste of several collective Senegalese and African art exhibitions.

The art gallery also provides accommodations which include an outdoor swimming pool, air-conditioned rooms, an art garden, a pop-up restaurant, and an Art Café. Guests not only enjoy a peaceful stay but have access to the house’s art gallery.

The shop is located at villa no. 1 rue de Pharmacy Atlantic Mamelles Dakar, 12500, Senegal.

Gambia – Top Shop

Image: Top Shop Gambia. Source: Instagram | @topshopgambia

If you are looking for the perfect souvenir to remind you of your trip to the beautiful country of Gambia, one place to visit is Top Shop. Established in 1985, Top Shop is a family business that has expanded over the years and has grown to be one of the longest-existing businesses in the Gambian Tourism industry with outlets located at hotels.

From African arts and crafts, traditional African fabric, and other types of souvenirs, Top Shop offers visitors something unique as a gift for a loved one, friend, or acquaintance. The Shop is located at Senegambia Beach Hotel, Senegambia Rd, Serrekunda, Gambia.

Ghana –ChopShop

Image: Dish from ChopShop Ghana Source: Instagram | @chopshopghana

Ghana offers a range of mouthwatering dishes for the enthusiastic foodies visiting the country. One of these spots guaranteed to trigger your taste buds is the eatery located at the heart of Accra called ChopShop. Their signature jollof rice, pork stew, and spicy goat meal are certain to give you an exceptional dining experience.

Their freshly cooked meals and swift customer service leave a long-lasting culinary experience of the beautiful West African country. The shop is located at HR68+QCP, Kuku Hill Cir, Accra, Ghana.

Nigeria – University of Suya

Source: Instagram | @madamafrika

The University of Suya, Faculty of Meatology as jokingly referred to by lovers of the finely skewered meat or Kebab is one local joint that is most sought after in Nigeria. Located on the streets of Allen Avenue in Ikeja, Lagos, the Shop offers varieties of spicy prepared cow meat, goat meat, lamb meat, chicken, turkey, and fish.

Suya is a common delicacy easily found being prepared in every nook and corner all over Nigeria. In Abuja the country’s capital, there is a variant called Kilishi which is a form of beef jerky that is sold at the popular market located in Area 1.

Arguably though, it is agreed that for now, the University of Suya is the right place to enjoy the rich spiciness of Suya. The shop is located at 62 Allen Ave, Allen 101233, Lagos.

Cote d’Ivoire – FadiWax Bietry

Source: Fadi Wax Website

Inspired by the desire to bring African patterns to life, Fadi Wax offers visitors a delightful array of ready-to-wear African fabric as well as uncut fabric materials and accessories. A perfect place to shop if you are looking for that distinctive African style. The Shop is located at Bd de Marseille, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

Okechukwu Nzeribe works with the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, in Anambra State, Nigeria, and loves unveiling the richness of African cultures. nextquestservices@gmail.com