Western Sahara is a disputed territory located in North Africa. Its capital city is El Aaiún. It covers an area of about 266,000 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 600,000 people. The politics of Western Sahara are complex, with ongoing disputes between Morocco and the Polisario Front. The first president of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, which claims sovereignty over the territory, was El-Ouali Mustapha Sayed. The official language is Arabic, and Islam is the predominant religion.
Western Sahara has been seeking independence from Morocco since the 1970s. However, the issue remains unresolved, and the territory is currently under Moroccan control. The economy of Western Sahara is primarily based on fishing, phosphate mining, and agriculture. The currency used is the Moroccan dirham. The main natural resources in the region include phosphates, fishing grounds, and potential offshore oil reserves. The main export of Western Sahara is phosphates, which are used in fertilizers and other industrial products.
In terms of industries, Western Sahara has a small manufacturing sector, primarily focused on food processing and handicrafts. The history of Western Sahara is marked by colonization, conflict, and ongoing disputes over sovereignty. The cuisine of Western Sahara is influenced by Arab, Berber, and Spanish culinary traditions. Traditional dishes include couscous, tagine, and camel meat. The culture of Western Sahara is rich and diverse, with influences from Arab, Berber, and Sahrawi traditions. Examples of ethnic groups and tribes in Western Sahara include the Sahrawi Arabs, the Berber tribes of the Reguibat and Tekna, and the Hassaniya-speaking Moors.
Notable individuals from Western Sahara include Mariem Hassan – a singer, Haidar Mohamed Ali – a human rights activist, Mohamed Lamin Ould Ahmed – a poet, etc.
Western Sahara is known for its unique geography and diverse climate. The region experiences hot summers and mild winters, with the Atlantic Ocean providing a moderating effect on the temperature. The highest mountain in Western Sahara is Mount Tahat, which stands at an impressive elevation of 2,918 meters.
In terms of water bodies, Western Sahara is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, providing beautiful coastal landscapes and opportunities for water-based activities. The region is also home to several oases and wadis, which are important sources of water in the arid desert environment.
Western Sahara has a number of notable tourist sites that attract visitors from around the world. One such site is the Dakhla Peninsula, which offers pristine beaches and excellent conditions for wind and kitesurfing. Another popular destination is the Aousserd Oasis, known for its lush vegetation and diverse bird species.
In terms of neighboring countries, Western Sahara shares borders with Morocco to the north, Algeria to the northeast, and Mauritania to the east and south. These countries play a significant role in the ongoing political and territorial disputes surrounding Western Sahara.
On the international stage, Western Sahara is a member of several organizations, including the African Union and the United Nations. Its membership in these organizations reflects the ongoing efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the territorial dispute and ensure the rights and self-determination of the Sahrawi people.
