Hand forming clay pots in the village of Kalabougou, Mali

Straw is burned around the pots to fire them. As we approached it looked like a blazing inferno had engulfled the village.

The fired and glazed pots were pulled out of the embers using long poles. This enterprise is undertaken entirely by the women and Kalabougou is famous throughout Mali for the fine pots produced there. 

Despite the energy and the industry in Kalabougou incomes are low and there is poverty and malnutrition. This boy carries his brother on his back.

Herd of cows being driven to an island in the River Niger, near Kalabougou, to graze.

Sunset on the River Niger taken from a small boat as we headed back to Ségou

Bamako was a big modern city with high rise office buildings, hotels, museums and shops.

We were delighted to see the famous River Niger, flowing east on our direction of travel. There were big modern and expensive hotels on the banks overlooking the great river. 

Our transport from Kayes to Bamako was a sturdy looking bus which turned out to be absolutely reliable. The 12 hour journey went without a hitch.

Margaret surveys the road ahead to Bamako during one of our rest stops.

The road side services areas were basic but very welcome. The lamb cooked on flattened oil drums over an open fire was delicious.