The Moussem of Tan-Tan in southwest Morocco is an annual gathering of nomadic tribes of the Sahara. It brings together more than thirty tribes from southern Morocco and other parts of northwest Africa. This event is traditionally held in May. This ritual was an essential part of the nomad community's agricultural and herding calendar. The gatherings provided an opportunity for the community to trade goods, organize horse and camel breeding competitions, celebrate weddings, and consult with herbalists.
This type of gathering was first celebrated in 1963 when the first Moussem of Tan-Tan was held. The Moussem promotes local traditions and provides a place where people can exchange knowledge, meet each other, and celebrate their local culture. Moussems are believed to be associated with Mohamed Laghdaf, who resisted the Franco-Spanish occupation by living in Tan Tan in 1960. He died in 1960, and his tomb lies in the area today. However, security issues in the region prevented the Moussem from taking place between 1979 and 2004.
Around 800 tents were used to accommodate the nomadic tribes at the moussem, making it one of the largest gatherings of nomadic tribes in northern Africa. Some of the tents were used to exhibit traditional Berber tribal life. The Moussem also included musical performances, chanting contests, poetry contests, and other traditional Hassanie oral traditions. The Moussem's reputation, fame, and recognition have been affirmed by the presence of many well-known and prestigious guests in recent years. These guests include prominent figures from the world of culture, arts, cinema, science, and the media, ministers, ambassadors, researchers, members of internationally recognized associations, and others. All of whom participated in the festivities on the square of peace and tolerance.
Moussem of Tan-Tan remains a defining and significant example of the richness and diversity of nomadic cultural heritage in the Sahara. This annual event represents peace and tolerance and is one of the most influential centers for economic and cultural exchange between tribes of the region. The current Moussem of Tan-Tan offers the tribes of the region the opportunity to meet and reconnect with the past. Today, nomadic populations are particularly concerned about protecting their traditions. Economic and technological developments have profoundly affected the lifestyle of nomadic Bedouin communities, which has led to many of them settling down. Moreover, urbanization and exodus from rural areas have contributed to the loss of many aspects of these cultures, including crafts and poetry. In light of these risks, Bedouin communities rely heavily on the re-established Moussem of Tan-Tan to ensure the survival of their knowledge and traditions.
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