What is the importance of the wells of Salaga in the novel, The Hundred Wells of Salaga?

The novel is named after the wells of Salaga. The wells represent the contradictory themes of independence and enslavement. Ironically, Aminah is at first impressed by the wells because she sees them as symbols of wealth, luxury, and power. However, when she learns of the purpose of these wells—to wash the bodies of the slaves that are imported into Salaga—they take on a sinister meaning and become a symbol of enslavement.