Name: Chaibou Landi
Born in Dan Gamji (Maradi, Niger) on: 1 January 1973
Home university: Institute of Literacy and Non-Formal Education (IFAENF)
Subject area: Linguistics
What I studied: School of teachers’ training and linguistics
At Leipzig University I’m visiting/working at: Institute of African Studies
I’m here from March 2019 until February 2021.
Where do you live in Leipzig and how do you like it?
IBZ guest house
Why are you in Leipzig?
I am here as a Hausa language trainer. As part of my research I explore translation and terminology. I am specifically working on translation between Hausa and French, and how to provide the Hausa language with suitable terminologies to improve it, to allow it better express science and technology. My most recent paper, which I began during the lockdown, is entitled Translating the terms of corona: a part of the fight against infectious diseases.
What do you value the most about your work?
I really appreciate the organization of work at the University, the interactions through various periodic meetings between colleagues.
How did your contact with Leipzig University come about?
My contact with Leipzig came through a colleague who informed me and helped put me in touch with the University.
What was most difficult about preparing to come here?
Getting a visa was the most difficult thing I faced, because the German Embassy in Niger does not issue them. One has to travel to Burkina Faso (Ouagadougou) to apply for one.
Is there anything you especially like about the University and/or the city of Leipzig?
Yes, I’d like to stay as long as possible in this city because of how Leipzigers behave. Be it in the city or at the University, people are very kind. This is special for me.
Can you tell us about something typical from your home region – such as a popular souvenir, regional delicacy, typical celebrations, etc.?
In the Hausa regions (including Maradi), there is a tradition called Tashe (“waking up”) which takes place during the month of Ramadan, the fasting month. Young people make an often laughable disguise, and take a walk around the village from street to street, sometimes from one village to another playing music, singing, and receiving donations on the occasion. It’s really cultural and wonderful.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I undertook to learn Deutsch, but my free time is not enough for me to do so.
When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I really wanted to be a journalist.
Do you have a motto in life that helps you through tough times?
Yes, in our culture we say: Ko me ya ɓaci hanƙuri a babu. In other words: if something gets bad it is because there was a lack of patience. So my motto is: patience, patience, patience!
Thank you.