The National Culture and Arts Week has commenced in Nouadhibou, Mauritania, under the presidency of Minister of Culture, El Houssein Ould Medou. The event, also attended by Minister of Commerce and Tourism, Zeinabou Mint Ahmednah, and Wali of Dakhlet Nouadhibou, Tfeila Mohameden Haden, marks a significant celebration of the country's cultural heritage. In his opening address, Ould Medou emphasized that culture is a vital component of Mauritania's development project, aimed at preserving identity and strengthening national unity.
According to Ould Medou, the current cultural, artistic, and heritage landscape in Mauritania is a result of the vision of President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, who has prioritized culture, arts, and heritage as fundamental elements of state and societal construction. The minister highlighted that this edition of the National Culture and Arts Week will feature various exhibitions, seminars, performances, and competitions, celebrating the Quran, the Prophet's biography, literature, and artistic talents.
The event provides a platform for debating national issues, including unity, social cohesion, tourism, youth empowerment, and the fight against drug abuse. Ould Medou stressed that the National Culture and Arts Week, taking place in all regional capitals, conveys a clear message: culture is a national, unifying affair. Each region, city, and village has a unique cultural heritage that deserves recognition and celebration.
The minister highlighted Nouadhibou's natural, economic, and cultural assets, which offer a rich experience for visitors. He mentioned the city's historical significance, industrial importance, and its own distinct memory, heritage, and social characteristics. Ould Medou also outlined efforts to preserve cultural heritage, including manuscript conservation, archaeological research, and historical site documentation.
Ould Medou discussed advancements in promoting Mauritania's cultural heritage internationally, valorizing archaeological sites, and fostering linguistic and cultural diversity. He cited initiatives such as the preparation of the second edition of the Nouakchott International Book Fair, the creation of heritage villages in Ouadane, and the development of major cultural infrastructure, including the future Grand Palace of Culture in Nouakchott.
The minister noted that the National Culture and Arts Week coincides with President El Ghazouani's directive to spend vacations within the country. This event is also part of the celebration of the seventh anniversary of the President's election and the structural transformations that have taken place in Mauritania during this period, contributing to national unity, security, and development.
Other officials, including Mohamed El Mami Ould Ahmed Bezeid, President of the Regional Council, and Manne Mint Chekkar, Deputy Mayor of Nouadhibou, welcomed the event, praising President El Ghazouani's efforts to promote culture and arts, and to anchor national culture in the development process. The ceremony was attended by various regional officials and dignitaries.
Key points
- The National Culture and Arts Week aims to promote Mauritania's cultural heritage and national unity.
- The event features various exhibitions, seminars, performances, and competitions celebrating the country's cultural diversity.
- The week-long celebration takes place in all regional capitals, highlighting the importance of culture in Mauritania's development.
