Bamako Encounters

Africa's principal event dedicated to photography and lens-based media

Bamako Encounters was established in 1994 as a collaborative initiative between the Malian Ministry of Culture and Institut Français (then known as AFAA — Association Française d'Action Artistique). Founded by photographers Françoise Huguier and Bernard Descamps, the biennale emerged during a period of renewed interest in African photography, partly catalyzed by the rediscovery of studio photographers like Seydou Keïta and Malick Sidibé. Over nearly three decades, the biennale has weathered political instability and security challenges in Mali while maintaining its position as the continent's most significant platform for photography. Since 2019, the event has been revitalized under the artistic direction of Bonaventure Soh Bejeng Ndikung, who has expanded its intellectual scope and international connections.