History of Nema

The city of Nema, located in the southeast of the country, possesses a rich history inextricably linked to the great trade routes of the Sahara. The name of the city translates from Arabic as "blessing" or "gift" (Ni'ma), which historically reflected its significance as a lifesaving oasis for weary travellers and trade caravans.

Foundation and Development

The exact date of the settlement's founding is lost in the mists of time; however, it is known that Nema formed as a key transit point. The territory on which the city grew was historically within the sphere of influence of ancient West African empires. Over time, Nema evolved from a small nomad encampment into a significant administrative and cultural centre of the Hodh Ech Chargui region.

Key Factors of Establishment

Several circumstances contributed to the city's transformation into an important regional hub:

• Geographical Location: Proximity to the border with modern-day Mali made Nema a strategic gateway for the exchange of goods between the inhabitants of the desert and the more fertile southern lands.
• Trade: Caravan routes carrying salt, dates, grain, and textiles passed through the city. This ensured a constant influx of merchants and contributed to the growth of prosperity.
• Water Resources: The presence of water sources in the arid climate made this place a natural centre of attraction for herders and farmers.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

During its formative period, Nema, like all of Mauritania, became a melting pot of cultures. Here, the traditions of the Berber peoples and the Arab population became closely intertwined. The economy of the early city was built on cattle breeding and transit trade. Furthermore, Nema gradually acquired the status of a centre of Islamic scholarship and education, where knowledge was valued and traditions were preserved.

Major Historical Milestones

• 11th–12th Centuries: The territory of the region falls within the sphere of influence of the medieval Ghana Empire, controlling trans-Saharan trade routes.
• 19th Century: The oasis strengthens its position as an important caravan hub and a centre of Islamic learning.
• Early 20th Century: With the arrival of the European administration, Nema begins to acquire the features of a modern city and administrative post.
• 1960: The state of Mauritania gains independence, and the city receives the status of the capital of the Hodh Ech Chargui region.
• 1970s: Construction begins on the famous "Road of Hope" — the country's main transport artery leading from the coast to the east.
• Early 1980s: The asphalt highway reaches the city, bringing it out of transport isolation and stimulating trade.
• 1990s: Significant population growth due to urbanisation and the development of cross-border exchange with neighbouring Mali.
• 2000s: Modernisation of urban infrastructure, including the renovation of the local airport's runway.
• 2016: Launch of the strategically important "Dhar" project to provide the city and surrounding areas with potable water from underground sources.
• 2018: The city hosts the national celebrations of the 58th anniversary of independence, leading to large-scale improvement of streets and buildings.
• Present Day: Nema continues to develop as a key economic and cultural centre of Eastern Mauritania.

Key Stages of City Transformation

The development of the city of Nema is a story of overcoming geographical isolation and adapting to the harsh conditions of the Sahel. The transformation from a remote caravan oasis into a modern regional centre became possible thanks to the implementation of strategic infrastructure and social projects.

• Completion of the "Road of Hope": Connection to the main Trans-Mauritanian highway, linking the east of the country with the Atlantic coast and the capital, was a turning point for the economy. This event finally brought the region out of transport isolation, ensuring a stable flow of goods and a reduction in prices.
• Confirmation of Administrative Status: Becoming the capital of the Hodh Ech Chargui Wilaya (province), the city received a powerful impulse for urban planning. Key government institutions, a regional hospital, and lyceums were erected here, making Nema a centre of attraction for residents of the entire province.
• Launch of the "Dhar" Water Megaproject: The implementation of a massive engineering scheme to deliver drinking water from underground reservoirs became the guarantee of the city's survival and growth. Stable water supply allowed for the expansion of residential neighbourhoods and support for local production.
• Airport Modernisation: The renovation of the runway and navigation equipment strengthened the logistical potential. For a country like Mauritania, where distances are vast, reliable air connections are critical for cargo delivery and the development of tourism to neighbouring Oualata.
• Electrification and Improvement: In recent years, the city has undergone a large-scale campaign to renew the urban environment. The expansion of power grids, asphalting of internal streets, and installation of modern lighting have radically changed the appearance of the central districts.
• Development of a Cross-Border Trade Hub: Leveraging its position near the border, the city transformed spontaneous exchange of goods into structured trade. The construction of new market areas strengthened economic ties with neighbouring West African states.

Architectural Appearance and Urban Planning

The architecture of the city of Nema represents a visual chronicle of its transformation from a caravan oasis into a modern administrative centre. The urban landscape combines features of traditional Sahelian architecture, colonial functionalism, and modern utilitarian architecture characteristic of developing cities in the region.

Traditional Architecture: Sahelian Style

The historical core of the city was shaped by climatic conditions and available materials. This layer of development, although giving way to modern structures, sets the tone for the old quarters.

• Materials: Use of local reddish stone and clay (banco). These materials possess excellent thermal regulation, keeping interiors cool during the daytime heat.
• Forms: Houses are predominantly single-storey, cubic in shape, with flat roof terraces that are used for relaxation in the evening.
• Decor: Unlike neighbouring Oualata, known for its rich ornaments, the traditional houses of Nema are more restrained, although characteristic carved wooden doors and wall niches are also found here.

Colonial and Post-Colonial Periods

With the arrival of the French administration and subsequent independence, when Mauritania began to form its own statehood, the appearance of the city changed. Buildings embodying administrative authority appeared in the centre.

• Administrative Style: The prefecture buildings, old schools, and hospitals were built with an emphasis on functionality. They are characterised by rectangular forms, the presence of covered galleries or verandas for protection from the sun, and the use of cement.
• Planning: During this period, a regular street network began to form, differing from the chaotic alleyways of the old city.

Modern Development and the Influence of the "Road of Hope"

The completion of the Trans-Mauritanian highway ("Road of Hope") in the 1980s became the main urban-forming factor of the modern era.

• Linear Development: The city began to expand rapidly along the highway. Commercial buildings, shops, warehouses, and car service centres, built from concrete blocks, sprang up along the main road.
• Vernacular Modernism: Modern residential houses are often built from cement blocks using metal roofs. This style, although less aesthetic than the traditional one, has become dominant due to its low cost and speed of construction.
• Infrastructure Objects: Important elements of the cityscape have become the water towers of the "Dhar" project and the new market buildings, reflecting the economic growth of the region.

Famous Natives and Residents

The city of Nema, being the historical and administrative centre of the east of the country, has given the region many outstanding personalities. Among them are statesmen, city founders, and guardians of cultural traditions, whose names are forever inscribed in the chronicles of the land.

• Moulaye Abdel Kerim
  Founder of the City
  A historical figure associated with the emergence of Nema. It was he who, according to local legends and historical chronicles, laid the foundations of the settlement, choosing this place due to the presence of water sources and its strategic position on caravan routes. His legacy lives on in the very existence of the city as an important hub in the Hodh Ech Chargui region.
• Moulaye Ould Mohamed Laghdaf
  Prime Minister (2008–2014), Diplomat, Engineer
  A native of Nema (born in 1957) who became one of the most influential politicians in the modern history of the state of Mauritania. He served as Prime Minister for a long time, playing a key role in stabilising the political system and developing the country's infrastructure projects. Prior to his premiership, he had a successful career as a diplomat, representing his homeland in Brussels and at the European Union.
• Cheikhna Ould Mohamed Laghdaf
  Minister of Foreign Affairs, Diplomat
  A prominent statesman (1920–2018) who repeatedly headed the country's foreign ministry (in the 1960s and 1970s). A representative of an influential family in the region, he made a significant contribution to the establishment of Mauritanian diplomacy and the strengthening of international ties for the young state.
• El Kevye
  Poet and Warrior
  A legendary figure in local folklore, famous for both his martial prowess and his poetic gift. In his works, he praised the beauty of his native land, in particular the famous Guelb N'Gadi mountain, which became one of the symbols of the Nema surroundings. His work is an important part of the region's oral heritage.
• Mohamed Ould Tijani
  Political Figure, Head of the Regional Council
  A modern leader actively involved in the development of the Hodh Ech Chargui region. As President of the Regional Council, he oversees important socio-economic initiatives aimed at modernising Nema's urban infrastructure, preserving cultural identity, and improving the lives of the local population.