Widows of Mauritania
A Struggle for Justice and Dignity
For over three decades, the widows and families of forcibly disappeared Black Mauritanians have endured unimaginable hardship and injustice. The enforced disappearances of our fathers, husbands, and brothers—carried out by the Mauritanian government in the late 1990s—remain one of the country’s darkest and most unpunished crimes. The United Nations has declared enforced disappearances a crime against humanity, yet the perpetrators of these atrocities have not only escaped accountability but have also been rewarded with positions of power.
Despite the passage of time, the wounds inflicted by these crimes remain open. The impact of these disappearances is irreparable, and the families left behind continue to suffer—seeking answers, recognition, and, above all, justice.
our brave mothers
Collectif des Veuves
The widows of Mauritania have suffered the most from these crimes. After their husbands were forcibly taken, many were evicted from their homes, left to care for their children alone without financial or social support. Some did not survive the devastating conditions, while those who remain live in extreme poverty, struggling daily to maintain their dignity. Instead of addressing their suffering, the Mauritanian government has systematically silenced them through intimidation, corruption, and empty promises.
For over 34 years, these women have endured economic hardship, social exclusion, and relentless state oppression. The government has offered land and financial settlements in an attempt to silence them, rather than ensuring real justice. Meanwhile, those responsible for these crimes—including Lieutenant Ould Maguett, now the President of the National Assembly—have been promoted to high-ranking positions within the government and military.
No Justice, No Peace
The Resilience of the Widows: A Testament to Strength
Despite decades of suffering, the widows of Mauritania have never wavered in their fight for justice. Left without financial support, many were forced to take on low-paying jobs such as selling goods, cooking, or domestic work just to ensure their children could eat. Others faced homelessness, social isolation, and government threats for daring to speak out.
Yet, in the face of oppression, they have stood together in solidarity, forming the “Collectif des Veuves”, a movement that continues to demand truth and accountability. These women have not only fought for justice for their murdered husbands but have also worked tirelessly to preserve their memory and ensure that the world does not forget. Their strength, sacrifice, and determination serve as a powerful reminder of their resilience.
However, resilience alone is not enough. They need tangible support, economic stability, and real justice—not just to survive, but to reclaim the dignity and recognition that has been denied to them.
Our fathers have been missing since 1990
refugees
TORTURED
EXECUTED
Continuing the Fight for Justice
The struggle for justice is far from over. Orphan Alliance is committed to carrying forward the widows’ fight, ensuring that their voices are not silenced and their sacrifices are not forgotten.
Our mission is twofold:
Demanding Justice – We continue to push for accountability and an end to the culture of impunity in Mauritania. We will not accept financial settlements as a substitute for justice. The perpetrators must be held accountable, and the truth must be acknowledged.
Providing Essential Support – Many of the widows who raised us—despite all odds—are now aging and in desperate need of support. Orphan Alliance is committed to ensuring they receive basic necessities, healthcare, and dignity in their later years.
The widows fought tirelessly to protect us. Now, we must stand up for them. We carry forward their determination and courage, refusing to be silenced by fear, threats, or oppression. Orphan Alliance will not stop until justice is served.
Join the Fight for Justice
This fight is not just about the past—it is about the future of human rights and justice in Mauritania. We call on the international community, human rights organizations, and all advocates of justice, equality, and human dignity to support our cause.
Justice delayed is justice denied. The world must no longer look away.
yero lam's children
Yero Lam was arrested after his brother, Abdramane Lam, was killed, in June 1989. Both had resisted the expropriation of their cattle. Members of their family were deported to Senegal.Lieutenant Oumar Sall
over 34 Years of Injustice. we are Calling for Accountability and Change
Repeal Amnesty Law 93.23: Advocate for the removal of legal protections that shield individuals responsible for genocide and human rights abuses, ensuring justice and accountability.