Les Hommes bleus du Sahara, ou l'autochtonie globalisee. Integral disponible en decembre 2011

In: Civilisations: d'anthropologie et de sciences humaines, Volume 57, p. 57-73

Abstract

In the Moroccan Sahara, a series of Nwaji tribesmen are touristic entrepreneurs that organize desert treks for tourists, and commonly legitimize their activity by claiming to be indigenous. Examining the way they simultaneously manipulate various ethnonyms and develop a cultural heritage that is disputed by different local groups contesting their "authenticity", this article shows how this indigeneity is fabricated through various mobilities and "metissages". Organizing tourist circuits actually encourages emigration to Europe and the development of NGOs for the defence of nomadism. The latter contribute to the dissemination of stereotypes concerning the "last nomads of the Sahara", and to the recognition of a cultural and political identity on the local, national and transnational levels. Adopting the allegorical name of "Blue Men", the Nwaji guides can finally define themselves and be recognized as indigenous. Adapted from the source document.