The Sound Of Hope

In the vast desert of Southern Mauritania, a few miles away from the conflicts plaguing Mali, the huge Mberra camp hosts 50 000 refugees. Entire families cope with 46˚ desert heat and scarce water and food supplies to get safety from extremism and war. In spite of the harsh living conditions, in this camp an extraordinary thing is happening: a music scene is taking shape thanks to some Tuareg and Arab musicians/refugees. They play traditional instruments, guitars and self-built gear, making the most of spare parts and the little means around. In improvised ritual-like performances, these musician wear their best dress and perform songs of nostalgia and dreams of peace to find relief for them and the other refugees. A sound of hope.

Photos by Jean-Marc Caimi