What's new in Calabar

Africa » Nigeria » Calabar
May 28th 2007

Published: December 30th 2007


OK, I'm posting this really late so some of these aren't terribly new, but here in Calabar things are happening! While most outgoing governors here are busy planning to leave the country, there is some nontrivial (and trivial) stuff being unveiled as Mr Duke prepares to leave office.


Monica Samec
Some stories and images from my time in Calabar, Nigeria, 2005-2008... full info
Joined: January 14th 2006
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Following nearly 16 years of military rule, a new constitution was adopted in 1999, and a peaceful transition to civilian government was completed. The president faces the daunting task of rebuilding a petroleum-based economy, whose revenues have be...more info

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I'll never take street signs for granted again. I'll never take street signs for granted again.
I'll never take street signs for granted again.

It took me months to figure out how to tell what street I was on (answer: search the store signs). But now tiny dirt roads have these bad boys. One challenge I am not going to miss!
Helmets for allHelmets for all
Helmets for all

After a year of feeling like the only weirdo wearing a helmet, it was mandated that all commercial motorcycle drivers had to carry a have a helmet for themselves and passengers. They even threw in a snazzy numbered vests. Rates have gone up about 10-20% but the system seems to be sticking for the most part.
Solar for all (who want internet)Solar for all (who want internet)
Solar for all (who want internet)

Calabar's first solar internet cafe is open for business. Well, kinda. It was supposed to provide a stable source of income for the non-profit... til the guy running it got bored. So any aspiring solar entrepreneurs who want to manage an internet cafe in Calabr, apply within...
Solar for me!Solar for me!
Solar for me!

Henry and I installed a 105 W system with DC lighting and fan and a small inverter for my laptop. At first my neighbors thought I bribed the NEPA guy! :)
"Better" transport"Better" transport
"Better" transport

Calabar now has a fancy new bus system. Biggest challenge: getting people to believe walking to a bus stop and waiting there is better than waving your hand to going with the first car that pulls over!
Show me the Niara! Show me the Niara!
Show me the Niara!

New bills came out in January. Seem a bit like monopoly money to me. Coins worth less than a penny and less than half a penny were introduced too, but not commonly used at this point.
Dorothy's new look Dorothy's new look
Dorothy's new look

A new coat of paint, an extra piece of meat in the stew and slightly higher prices, and ice cream for the kids! Dorothy's has reopened for business. A bunch of other new restaurants now in Calabar too, but this is still my favorite.
Pre-paid power baby!Pre-paid power baby!
Pre-paid power baby!

Just buy your electricity recharge card, punch in the code, and...
Let the conservation begin!Let the conservation begin!
Let the conservation begin!

From my one data point of the VSO flat, looks like the Nigerian energy conservation program is a success. Say what? It's just to make sure people pay their bills?! I guess that's important too...


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