Towering over the Senegalese capital from the Mamelles hill, the African Renaissance Monument stands proudly like a bronze colossus, visible from miles around. Inaugurated in 2010, this gigantic 52-metre-high building has quickly become one of Dakar’s most recognisable symbols, sparking both admiration and controversy.
The story of the monument begins with the vision of the Senegalese president at the time, Abdoulaye Wade. Inspired by great monuments of the world such as the Statue of Liberty in New York, Wade wanted to create a powerful symbol of a resurgent Africa, freed from colonial rule and looking towards a promising future. The project, designed by Senegalese architect Pierre Goudiaby Atepa, was carried out by a North Korean company, Mansudae Overseas Projects, known for its monumental achievements.
Are you interested in this article and want to read it in full?
Access all Premium content. Over 2000 articles and ebooks