An encroaching desert threatens to swallow Mauritania’s homes and history

Chinguetti, Mauritania, a historic city with ancient libraries and manuscripts, is facing extinction as shifting sands encroach on its neighborhoods. Climate change is causing sandstorms to deposit dunes in streets and homes, threatening the city’s future. Tree-planting projects have not been successful in preventing the advancing sand. The dry climate has led to desertification and the loss of vegetation, wells, and livelihoods. Residents like date farmer Salima Ould Salem are struggling to adapt, as homes and structures are buried by sand. The city’s rich history and cultural significance are at risk as the desert continues to encroach on the city.

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