The Zinder bush is not only vast and beautiful,

…but a place full of discovery.

Did you know for instance in that date palm [Phoenix dactylifera] petioles are used to make local beds?

I’ve known them as “Hausa beds” all my life, and they are very beautiful – as furniture made of 100% natural material always is.

On our ride yesterday afternoon, we passed the village of Mandara, where the farmers were busy making Hausa beds under an open sky.

The village was divided into two groups:

One that straightened out the petioles across the fire…

…and one that bound together the beds with raw hide string.

I love how the whole village was involved,

…and how serene it looked to work out in the open, surrounded by fresh air and good company.

People often think of Niger as a place with no opportunities, but there are plenty to do for those who want to live off the land.

Hausa beds not expensive to make, easy to produce and sell easily at the market. The villagers of Mandara have it going for them!

For other discoveries around the world, visit My World!