Latest news with #Trans-Saharan
Morocco World
06-05-2025
- Science
- Morocco World
New Discoveries at Sijilmassa Could Redefine Morocco's Ancient African Connections
Rabat – Morocco's National Institute of Archeology and Heritage (INSAP) has launched a comprehensive research program at the ancient site of Sijilmassa. This initiative seeks to reveal the mysteries of one of Morocco's most historically significant cities, which once played a vital role in connecting the country to sub-Saharan Africa. This research is entirely led by Moroccan experts, with Asmae Al-Qasimi, a heritage professor and specialist, overseeing the local team. Abdeljalil Bouzouggar, director of the Institute, noted that the discoveries expected from this project could shift the understanding of Morocco's role in African history. Bouzouggar told SNRTnews that the ongoing research at Sijilmassa and the Chellah sites as groundbreaking for Morocco. This marks the first large-scale excavation of its kind in the country, in terms of size and the modern techniques employed. He added that these projects represent some of the largest archaeological undertakings led by the Institute since the country's independence, and the findings will likely redefine the region's historical significance. Al-Qasimi, the project leader, explained that the team is focused on deep excavations to uncover the true nature of Sijilmassa, as much of its historical architecture remains buried beneath the earth. She shared that the archaeological layers at Sijilmassa stretch from the 8th to the 18th century, with recent discoveries shedding new light on the city's past and possibly rewriting its history. The researcher also pointed out that while earlier excavations were conducted during the colonial period by teams from Italy, the US, and France, those efforts were much smaller in scope compared to the current project. Read also: Sijilmasa: Morocco's Contribution to the Trans-Saharan Gold Trade What sets this excavation apart is the use of advanced, modern technologies for the first time in Morocco, including drones and 3D imaging, techniques that are internationally recognized and have been successfully implemented by the Moroccan team. To date, the research has covered approximately 8,000 square meters of the site, revealing layers of history spanning from the 6th to the 18th centuries. The excavations have already uncovered important findings that could reshape the understanding of Morocco's historical narrative. Al-Qasimi confirmed that the research has unveiled the original nucleus of the city, as well as archaeological points that have never before been documented in the field. The Ministry of Youth plans to announce the full results once the research concludes. Historically, Sijilmassa was a key passageway to the African coast, connecting Morocco to empires like Ghana and Senegal.
Yahoo
17-04-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Nigeria, Niger foreign ministers meet for security talks
The foreign ministers of Nigeria and Niger held talks Wednesday on cross-border security, terrorism and economic cooperation, despite tensions between the two neighbours since the July 2023 coup in Niger. It comes after Nigeria this month renewed calls for the release of Niger's deposed president Mohamed Bazoum, who is being held at the presidential palace in Niamey in strict detention. Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar travelled to Niamey for talks with Niger's Foreign Minister Bakary Yaou Sangare, in only the second visit by a senior Nigerian official since the coup, following that of General Christopher Musa, Nigeria's defence chief, in August. "The discussions took place in a climate of great cordiality and provided an opportunity to examine in depth the challenges facing the two countries," said a joint statement by the two ministers. The talks focused on the terror threat along their borders, "which constitutes a real obstacle to the effective implementation of all development programmes", the statement said. On economic cooperation, the ministers discussed the railway project linking the Nigerian cities of Kano and Katsina to Maradi in Niger, which is due to open in 2026. They also discussed construction of the Trans-Sahara Highway, and the planned Trans-Saharan gas pipeline, as well as customs and taxation. Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali quit the Economic Community of West African States at the beginning of the year, accusing the ECOWAS bloc of failing in the fight against jihadism. All three countries are led by juntas and are facing deadly jihadist attacks. They formed their own Alliance of Sahel States, pivoting away from former colonial power France and towards Russia. str/ks/roc/rjm/tc
