The man on a mission to save Mauritania’s ‘city of libraries’ from encroaching desert sands

Chinguetti, a small desert settlement in Mauritania, is facing significant challenges as desert sands encroach upon its historic libraries, tourism declines, and insecurity rises due to conflict in neighboring Mali. Saif Islam, at 67 years old, embodies the spirit of resilience as he works tirelessly to safeguard this UNESCO-listed site, known as the 'city of libraries.' His mission is not only about preserving physical structures but also about maintaining the cultural heritage and identity of the community. The situation in Chinguetti reflects broader issues of environmental change and regional instability, making Islam's efforts vital for the town's future. As he navigates these challenges, his story highlights the importance of local activism in the face of global threats, emphasizing that the fight to save Chinguetti is a fight for cultural preservation and community resilience.