The Saharawi of North Africa

Population: About 650,000

Location and Background: The Saharawi people originally come from Western Sahara. Currently the Saharawi people are primarily living in Western Sahara, Morocco, Mauritania, Algeria and Spain.

History: The Saharawi have traditionally been a nomadic people who live in the desert. Their territory was previously colonized by Spain and when Spain left in 1976, both Morocco and Mauritania attempted to control the land. The land is currently being controlled by Morocco which has forced thousands to flee to refugee camps in Algeria. The Saharawi people desire to have their freedom and to live peacefully in their territory under their government, the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic.

Culture: Their ancestors are both Berber and Arab peoples. They speak a dialect of Arabic called Hassaniya. The Saharawi people value the female figure and have a matriarchal society. The culture is community oriented with a high value on family. Those living in the desert share large tents called haimas. 

Religion: Islam