Living in Maaden, a green oasis in the Mauritanian desert, revolves around communal living, spirituality, and sustainable agriculture to achieve a harmonious existence.
Founded by Sufi spiritual guide Mohammed Lemine Sidina in 1975, the village of Maaden el Ervane promotes values of equality, fraternity, tolerance, and hard work.
The village continues to thrive even after more than 20 years since the death of its founder.
Djibril Niang, a resident of Maaden, emphasizes the sense of equality and brotherhood within the community, where everyone works together to support each other regardless of caste or race.
Imam Taha Sidina shares his father’s vision for Maaden, where communal activities like well-digging, road-creating, and tree-planting were planned together every evening.
Maaden has seen growth over the years, expanding its arable land and adopting sustainable farming practices with the guidance of Pierre Rabhi, a pioneer of organic farming.
Visitors are welcomed with hospitality, and the village has become a self-sufficient community with composting, solar panels, and innovative agricultural techniques.
Women in Maaden have also found empowerment through farming cooperatives and the opportunity to engage in various activities beyond traditional roles.
For the residents of Maaden, the village is more than just a home – it’s a way of life and a promising future.
