Morocco promotes culture of Nomads

Organizers are promoting the historic wandering way of life to attract tourists, increase economic activity in the area, and raise awareness of the need to preserve natural resources like water.

The seventh International Nomad Festival is taking place in M'hamid El Gizlanem, situated in southeastern Morocco, close to the Algerian border.

The aim of the event is to promote the ancient wayfaring lifestyle, with fashion shows displaying traditional forms of dress, while musicians and dancers entertain tourists.

The gathering also acts as a means to boost the area's economy. But this year, organizers also wanted to draw attention to the importance of the environment, specifically focusing on water as a resource.

Noureddine Bougrab, festival director, said, "Because of the worldwide problems created by climate change, we wanted to benefit from nomads' experiences to propose some solutions, more than concentrating on the problems. We want solutions coming from an area known for the scarcity of its water resources, and where tourists are coming in big numbers because of its touristic wealth. We came up with a solution to preserve this rare commodity, and also to avoid the pollution of the underground water."

A catwalk set on sand boldly featured the traditional women's m'lehfa dress, with many of the designs created by Moroccan couturier Jamila Lafqir.

Due to the festival's focus on the environment, French activist group "TerrEau" was also invited to take part in the events.

The conclave has been promoting the concept of dry toilets built over pits, and able to operate without the use of water.

Organizers say the gathering, which runs from March 11th through 15th, is an excellent way to promote the region, and firmly stamp it on the international map.