First Look - The Keeper of Sustainability
I have photographed several oases in Morocco in my work as a photographer and National Geographic Explorer residing in Rabat, and capturing images of women has always been challenging. It was only in the Skoura Oasis that I was able to do so, and I had the privilege of meeting some incredibly strong women.
I stayed with beekeeper Hayat Erragna and her son for two weeks at her inn, during which it became clear how much of an impact she has on other women in the community. By teaching them sustainable beekeeping practices, she helps foster an environment where the Saharan yellow bee (Apis mellifera sahariensis) can thrive. This approach ensures the continuation of essential pollination in the desert ecosystem, benefiting both plants and animals—including the bees themselves.
Erragna looks after about 10 hives. Like the other women, she works for herself. All have been trained by Association Albisher, which works with village women and youth to maintain a self-sufficient family farming system focused on beekeeping.
—M'HAMMED KILITO
Instagram: @m’hammed_kilito
You may also be interested in...
At Home in the World: A Conversation with Maryam Hassan
Arts
Growing up in London, at age 13, Maryam Hassan decided she’d move to Chicago one day. The city had glittered in her imagination because she was certain that it bore no resemblance to her hometown.
Translating the Qur’an for the Deaf
Arts
Until a few years ago, the UK’s deaf community was hard-pressed to access the Qur’an. A project to translate the holy book from Arabic directly into British Sign Language is underway—but it comes with challenges to ensure accuracy and comprehensibility.
Polish Explorer's Manuscript on Arabia Helps Preserve Cultural Heritage
Arts
Nearly 200 years after his death, Polish adventurer and poet Waclaw Rzewuski’s manuscript documenting his experience in the Middle East has become important to advancing understanding of 19th-century Bedouin life and customs.