Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani has urged for a more comprehensive approach to preserving the country's historic cities. During a meeting with local officials and leaders in the Shenqiṭṭ region on Tuesday, he emphasized that the current efforts, such as the organization of the Meda'in al-Turath festival, are not sufficient on their own. El Ghazouani stressed the need for a dedicated approach to protect and preserve these cities.

El Ghazouani highlighted the importance of safeguarding manuscripts and historical artifacts, warning that their current conditions make them vulnerable to the passage of time and natural factors. He called for more effective measures to preserve these cultural treasures. The President emphasized that protecting the country's heritage requires providing the necessary resources, even if it means significant financial investments.

The President encouraged the use of modern technologies and techniques developed by other countries in the field of heritage preservation. He noted that protecting Mauritania's cultural heritage is a worthy investment, one that may require substantial funding. El Ghazouani's comments underscore the government's commitment to safeguarding the nation's rich cultural legacy.

El Ghazouani also emphasized that preserving the physical heritage of historic cities must be accompanied by efforts to maintain their scientific and cultural spirit. He noted that the value of knowledge is fully realized when it benefits society as a whole. The President's remarks reflect his administration's focus on balancing preservation with community engagement.

The Shenqiṭṭ region, where the meeting took place, is home to several historic cities that are significant to Mauritania's cultural heritage. El Ghazouani's visit to the area underscores the government's recognition of the region's importance. The President's initiative aims to ensure the long-term preservation of these cities and their cultural significance.

The call for a comprehensive initiative to protect historic cities has been welcomed by local communities and cultural stakeholders. They see El Ghazouani's efforts as a positive step towards safeguarding Mauritania's rich cultural heritage. The President's commitment to preserving the country's cultural legacy is seen as essential to promoting national identity and pride.

The Mauritanian government has not yet provided details on the specific measures that will be implemented as part of the initiative. However, El Ghazouani's announcement has generated optimism among cultural enthusiasts and stakeholders. The President's focus on comprehensive preservation and community engagement is expected to have a lasting impact on the country's cultural landscape.

Key points

  • President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani has called for a comprehensive initiative to protect Mauritania's historic cities and preserve their cultural heritage.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.