'Singing what they want' - reggae in Ivory Coast

The politically charged reggae music of Ivory Coast has been exported all over the globe…producing stars like Tiken Jah Fakoly and Alpha Blondy. Abidjan, along with Kingston and London, is seen as one of the top reggae capitals of the world. 

The music played a big role during the country's decade of instability and conflict – with artists using their songs to criticise politicians and call for peace. 

Nearly three years on from the most recent civil crisis, where more than three thousand people were killed, the BBC’s Tamasin Ford reports on how the music has taken a new turn since peace arrived in the country.

To listen to this report, please click on this link to the BBC's website.

Or if you want to listen to the French version, click here (from 11 minutes in)