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Perched at the top of the docile ancient volcano of Petite Mamelle, Ouakam stands in its glory, the magnificent African Renaissance Monument.
The grand feat of the artistic excellence of sculptor, Ousmane Sow, architectural prowess of Pierre Gouidaby Atepa and vision of then-President Abdoulaye Wade was birthed to ignite a renewed sense of unity with African countries and to serve as a reminder of the possibility of greatness and Pan-African ideals to all Africans.
Rivalling western monuments such as Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro; Eiffel tower in Paris; the Statue of Liberty in New York, the African Renaissance Monument stands at a magnificent 53 metres.
It is a call to Africa to unite and believe in the prospects of prosperity for the continent.
The monument, inaugurated by President Wade and dedicated to the Senegalese people, took 8 years to complete due to geographical difficulties on the land on which it sits.
Although its construction was not initially well-received, the African Renaissance Monument has become a symbol geared at beckoning unity within the continent, engraved in the minds of Senegalese and to a larger extent, Africans.
The bronze work of art depicts a man holding a baby with his wife behind emerging from a rocky foundation all looking and pointing westward. The monument is rife with symbolism ingrained in both materials and design, messages that were intended on igniting an awakening.
This timeless monument has not only attracted thousands of visitors to Dakar but has also significantly contributed to the nation’s tourism revenue, standing as the tallest statue in Africa. The ascent, comprising 208 steps to the head of the statue, offers a breathtaking view of Dakar and the Atlantic Ocean.
While not for the faint-hearted, the climb promises a chance to marvel at this architectural masterpiece and reflect on the poignant messages embedded within. Although presently a tourist attraction, the monument serves as an enduring expression of Africa’s promising future.
Undoubtedly, the African Renaissance Monument is a must-visit for anyone planning a trip to Senegal. The fusion of artistic mastery and engineering ingenuity provides a view worth experiencing, leaving a lasting memory.