Audience in Adzope Town Hall for Hearing

Rows of metal folding chairs fill the community center hall in Adzopé, occupied by a local audience awaiting a public hearing. Late afternoon light streams through high north windows, casting long, sharp shadows that stretch across the dusty concrete floor. The dry season air leaves the room feeling open, with walls painted in faded ochre tones absorbing the warm glow. People sit upright, hands resting on knees or laps, their expressions focused and serious. Simple wooden tables stand at the front, empty and ready. One plastic water bottle sits on a chair back, reflecting the bright window light. The quiet determination settles over the room like a heavy curtain.