![During the more than 10-year armed struggle for independence, Guinea Bissau was supported by communist countries such as Cuba and the Soviet Union. After independence in 1974, many Guinea-Bissauan citizens went to these countries to study. The first bank in Guinea Bissau was built by a female Guinea-Bissauan architect who studied in the Soviet Union. Today the building is abandoned in the center of town, but still marked with Che Guevara graffiti. [Ricci Shryock/ Al Jazeera]](/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/30b466cc0bb041f8b38b6b4ed47a8d41_8.jpeg?resize=270%2C180)
Like the country’s glacial political process, the city’s historical buildings reflect roots of colonialism.
![Large canoes arrive in Niamey two days each week from Monsey, in Benin, and Kirtachi, in Niger, carrying squash for delivery during the high-water season. The season used to last all year, but now it is down to August to January, said one canoe owner. In the 20 years he has been bringing squash canoes to Niamey, he said falling water levels have meant that they can only do business when levels are high. 'The river is important for us, because when the water goes down we cannot navigate,' he added. [Ricci Shryock/Al Jazeera]](/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/a6fbf63db7c44e56a2a535e4ac9351e1_8.jpeg?resize=270%2C180)
Along Niger River, people feel effects of climate change as reduced rainfall has decreased water and fish levels.
![Members of the Iris Carnival group in Bissau wait while their team mates prepare to practise their dance for the big party. [Ricci Shryock/Al Jazeera]](/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/aa53f5d844ac4a0b8dde032ba18f889f_8.jpeg?resize=270%2C180)
Carnival organisers in Guinea Bissau celebrate conservation of tradition and biodiversity through fashion and dance.