Once a year the village of Diafarabé is hosting its Cattle Crossing. An impressive event with a long history - held for the 196th time in 2014. Hundreds or even thousands of cows swim across the Niger river guided and encouraged by their herders.
It's not just about getting them to the other side of the river. It's about getting them there fast and safe. A competition for the young herders. Everlasting fame and the undivided attention of the nubile girls are at stake.
Even though the dates were set late, we managed to attend the festivities with a group, sailing the Niger river from Ségou and back.