Chinguetti Diary
— By Luz and Elena
Luz:
Our journey to Chinguetti began as a spark after Beatriz’s and my first visit to Mauritania as volunteers for the “Solidarity Backpacks” program by Policía Amigo. I vividly remember the long and demanding road trip, especially the final unpaved stretch from Atar that seemed endless. Arriving at one of Mauritania’s four historic cities felt like stepping back in time: the old city stands stoic, yet the desert shows no mercy, gradually reclaiming it. The harsh, dusty surroundings strongly contrast with the warmth of its people, always ready to smile and welcome us into their world.
Amid this landscape, it was impossible not to imagine how much could change with the upcoming paving of the Atar-Chinguetti road. Something awakened in us: what if from here we could open new windows to the future? Thus was born the Chinguetti Project, driven by the purpose of promoting tourism and with it, local development, always hand in hand with the community itself.
We started with something simple yet powerful: Spanish classes. This is the first step toward a greater ambition—to implement workshops focused on tourism, culture, and hospitality. We are fortunate to have Abdoulaye, a local teacher trained in Spanish in Nouakchott, who brings knowledge and closeness. Beatriz coordinates the teaching materials, innovating in methodology and supporting Abdoulaye to bring out the best in each learner. Classes take place in the training room of the Spanish hospital, donated by the Chinguetti Foundation, Monday to Friday in the afternoons when the heat subsides and the town breathes a different rhythm.
At the inauguration, Elena and I attended as witnesses to a historic moment. We interviewed the first students—young people full of hope—and participated in the initial sessions. Today, a month later, we remain connected: a lively WhatsApp group, shared materials, almost weekly follow-ups, and periodic video calls. The bond endures, despite the distance.
There is so much more to tell because Chinguetti stays in your heart, and the project has only just begun…
Elena:
Traveling to Chinguetti, right in the heart of the Mauritanian Sahara, is an experience that leaves a mark—both on the soul and in one’s perspective. We went with excitement and the responsibility to attend the inauguration of a project modest in resources but immense in hope, both for the local community and for us.
From the very beginning, the journey tested us. The heat was almost unimaginable, and the trip long and challenging. Yet, upon arrival, we were welcomed with a warmth that melted away all fatigue. Mauritanian hospitality is one of those that touches the heart: simple and sincere gestures, kind words, sharing their tea and their time, opening the doors to a culture so dignified and resilient.
The enthusiasm of the young learners from day one was contagious. In every smile, there was a desire to overcome, a bet on the future, a commitment to the “yes, we can.” We learned as much from them as we tried to teach: dignity, generosity, and strength in an unforgiving environment. Chinguetti is a land of memory but also of future.
We returned with full hearts and the certainty that this is just the beginning. Our commitment continues: to support, encourage, and build bridges. Hopefully, Spanish and tourism will serve as tools to open new paths, create opportunities, and generate local development. And as long as the sand keeps advancing, we will keep adding grains of hope.
