Mauritania’s ancient city of Chinguetti battles desertification

Chinguetti, an ancient city in Mauritania, is slowly being buried by encroaching desert sands, according to a special report by the Associated Press. Once a vibrant center of Islamic learning and trade, the city is now at risk due to worsening desertification, exacerbated by climate change. Fierce sandstorms have intensified in recent years, engulfing streets, homes, and even the city's renowned libraries, which house centuries-old manuscripts.

Local residents and environmentalists have attempted mitigation efforts, such as planting trees to create a natural barrier against the advancing sands. However, these measures have had limited success, as rising temperatures and shifting wind patterns continue to erode the landscape. The degradation of arable land threatens agriculture, while dwindling water sources pose severe risks to public health.

Despite these challenges, Chinguetti remains a symbol of resilience, with its people determined to preserve their cultural heritage. Urgent intervention is needed to prevent this UNESCO-listed city from being lost to the sands forever.