According to reports, the once — popular rendezvous is being overshadowed by the convenience of dating apps. “.
The channel isn’t as essential as it used to be, “Anna, a 22-year-old student, told AFP. “We talk, we get to know each other without hiding, “she added, reflecting the changing attitudes towards romance in the city.
In the past, the lovers’channel provided a discreet space for young couples to meet, away from the watchful eyes of families and the public.
Couples would use coded signals and slogans to communicate across the dark water, as recounted by Jonas Zannou — Zoki, a tour guide in Ganvie. “Today, even from his bed, a young man can make a move on a girl who’s on the other side of the world, “Elise Avlessi, who met her husband on the waterway 15 years ago, told AFP, illustrating the impact of technology on romantic encounters.
However, the shift to digital romance isn’t without its downsides. “.
Before, we did everything in secret, we let the relationship develop away from prying eyes, “Avlessi said expressing a sense of nostalgia for the privacy once offered by the channel.
In recognition of the channel’s cultural significance, a “Lovers’Square “has been established nearby.
The site manager, Emilienne Atoukou, explained that the square, consecrated by religious dignitaries, is an intimate space dedicated to fidelity and love.
Couples throw cowrie shells into a dugout canoe as a symbol of their vows. While the number of canoes using the channel has decreased over the years, some still meet there to seal their unions.
Astrid and Pierre — Marie, a couple in their 30s, visited the channel a few days before Valentine’s Day to “promise each other the most important things.
It’s a beautiful story, but today. We talk, we get to know each other without hiding, “said Anna, reflecting the changing landscape of romance in Ganvie.
