From Deity Dolls to Dogtoberfest: Africa's Vibrant Week in Photos

Across Africa this week, people celebrated traditions, prepared for new beginnings, and showed their creativity. In Benin, the Twins Festival in Ouidah brought together families who believe in the power of hoxo, special figurines linked to twins. One man proudly displayed a pair of these dolls, dressed in matching outfits, symbolizing unity and good fortune for twins.

In Senegal, children at Medina Gounass Elementary School in Dakar worked together to clean their classrooms before the school year started. They swept the floors and tidied up, making the school a welcoming place for learning. A mural of Senegal's first president, Léopold Sédar Senghor, watched over them, reminding everyone of the country's history.

Ethiopia's Oromo community gathered in Addis Ababa for a thanksgiving festival. Men and women wore beaded jewelry and traditional clothing, celebrating their heritage and giving thanks.

South African choreographer Mthuthuzeli November, who began ballet at 15, posed at France's Opéra Bastille. His journey shows that it's never too late to follow your dreams. He wore stylish clothes and performed a graceful dance move for the camera.

In Nairobi, Kenya, Dogtoberfest brought together dog owners and their pets. A woman smiled as she held her cheerful dog, showing the strong bond between people and animals.

Malian singer Mariam Doumbia participated in a photoshoot in France, wearing a matching lace dress and headwrap. Her husband and musical partner, Amadou Bagayoko, passed away in April, but she continues to honor their legacy.

In Benghazi, Libya, women dressed in golden-colored dresses and headdresses attended the opening of a new sports club. Their elegant attire highlighted the importance of the event.

A full moon appeared between the minarets of a mosque in el-Shorouk, Egypt, creating a stunning scene.

In eastern Egypt, men competed in al-Marmah, a horseback game involving wooden batons. Spectators watched as riders demonstrated their skills.

Floods in northern Egypt left many homes damaged, with children climbing on the remains of their houses. The prime minister said some homes were built in areas prone to flooding.

In Cameroon, a man decorated his motorbike with the national flag and 'Go Lions' to support the football team before their victory against Mauritius. His outfit and bike matched the flag's colors, showing national pride.

Madagascar's 'Gen Z Mada' protest movement adopted the skull-and-crossbones logo from the anime One Piece, rejecting government talks and demanding change.

Young people in Morocco also protested, frustrated with government failures. One man wore the Moroccan flag as a cape to show his support.

Seychelles held a presidential election, with people queuing to vote in a run-off between the current president and the leader of the governing party.

Tunisia's capital hosted a handicrafts fair, where artisans displayed colorful rugs and other handmade goods.

In Johannesburg, South Africa, canoeists glided across Emmarentia Dam at sunrise, enjoying the peaceful waters.

These photos and stories from Africa highlight the continent's vibrant cultures, resilience, and creativity. From festivals and protests to sports and crafts, Africa continues to inspire and amaze.