Yoro Diao, 94, is one of the few surviving Senegalese tirailleurs – African colonial riflemen who fought in the French army during the country's biggest 20th century conflicts. But once the wars were over they began a new battle against the French administration to get better pension rights. Despite the difficulties, Diao’s loyalty to France remains unshakeable.
After 22 years shuttling between Senegal and France – where he lives in a migrant hostel in Bondy, north of Paris – Diao is preparing to return for good to his native village of Dagana in Saint-Louis.
