Saving Mauritania's Ancient 'City of Libraries' from the Desert's Grip

Saif Islam, the custodian of the family library Al Ahmed Mahmoud, has been working tirelessly to preserve the historical significance of Chinguetti, a desert settlement in Mauritania, from the encroaching desert sands. At 67 years old, Islam continues to safeguard the city's rich cultural heritage, which is slowly being threatened by the rising desert sands, dwindling tourism, and insecurity due to conflict in neighboring Mali. Islam's dedication to preserving the city's history is evident in his daily routine, where he carefully tends to the ancient manuscripts and books in the library's courtyard. "Its these books that gave it this history, this importance," he said, pointing to a 10th-century Quran, its pages brown with age. "Without these old dusty books, Chinguetti would have been forgotten like any other abandoned town." Chinguetti, known as the city of libraries, was once a vital stop for travelers and grew into a hub for libraries preserving religious and scientific manuscripts. The city's strategic location allowed it to thrive as a center of learning and culture, attracting scholars and travelers from across the Sahara. However, the city's significance has been slowly eroding due to the decline of the trans-Saharan trade routes and the rise of modern transportation. Islam's efforts to preserve the city's history are not only a personal endeavor but also a testament to the importance of cultural preservation. "These books are not just pieces of paper," he said. "They hold the stories of our ancestors, our traditions, and our way of life." Islam's dedication has inspired a new generation of young Mauritans to take an interest in preserving the city's cultural heritage. Despite the challenges facing Chinguetti, Islam remains optimistic about the city's future. "We are working hard to preserve our history and culture," he said. "We want to ensure that future generations can learn from our past and build upon our achievements." Islam's efforts have been recognized by local authorities, who have provided support for the restoration of the city's libraries and cultural institutions. As the desert sands continue to encroach on Chinguetti, Islam's determination to preserve the city's history serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural preservation. His story highlights the need for communities to come together to protect their cultural heritage and ensure that it is passed down to future generations. With the support of local authorities and the dedication of individuals like Islam, Chinguetti may yet continue to thrive as a center of learning and culture in the Sahara.