Digital Postcards

This project uses audiovisual and digital technologies to support the Saharawi people in their attempts to overcome international invisibility and geographical isolation.

It works on two levels: Firstly, by helping bridge the communication gap between those living in the refugee camps around Tindouf (Algeria) and those in the territories of Western Sahara, under Moroccan control since 1975. Secondly, by opening up a multi-focal channel of communication between the Saharawi people and the international community.

This project, led by a team from Roehampton University, formed part of the programme of the 6th FISahara (Sahara International Film Festival), and was preceded by a preparatory phase in which an initial set of audiovisual “messages” by various individuals were recorded in the UK and Spain in March and April 2009. These “messages” were delivered at a workshop in Dakhla, where the team helped the Saharawi participants produce their own audiovisual replies and/or new messages. The audiovisual “messages” recorded prior to and during the workshop were screened on the last day of the Festival and then uploaded onto the Just Messaging website.

More at www.justmessaging.com

In the pipeline

Home Project by Olivia Mann

A collection of recordings of Saharawi oral testimonies and portraiture.