Burkina Faso’s African dolls challenge the barbie stereotype
In Burkina Faso, the creators of African dolls hope that their toys will resonate more with the children of the continent than the typical blue-eyed Barbie dolls.
A “Saramani” doll designed by the Burkinabe artist Mare Abibou is pictured in her workshop in Ouagadougou on October 27, 2018. – Mare Abibou’s company “Poupeemania” designs handmade dolls with brown skin and traditional African clothes. The Burkinabe artist exposes at the International Arts and Handicrafts Trade Show of Ouagadougou (SIAO) from October 26 until November 4, 2018. (Photo by ISSOUF SANOGO / AFP)
In Madagascar, a predominantly Christian country, abortion is illegal, including for victims of rape, and is punishable by ten years in prison. Activists campaigning for the legalisation of abortion are hoping their efforts will one day bring positive change to the many women across the country who have to turn to dangerous clandestine abortions.