Dali Koumbe: Village of the blind, a century-old mystery

Dali Koumbe, a remote village in Mauritania, West Africa, is a place of mystery and resilience. Located 1000 kilometers from the capital city of Nouakchott, it is the country’s most isolated village. Here, one in two people are born blind, a phenomenon that has puzzled outsiders for generations.

According to the village head, Mohamed Mahmoud, a prophecy given 10 generations ago foretold the birth of a virtuous man without eyesight, and since then, every generation has been born blind. The villagers believe this prophecy is the cause of their blindness, while researchers and outsiders suspect genetic disorders or consanguinity as the underlying cause.

Despite the challenges posed by their blindness, the villagers have developed an impressive ability to adapt and thrive. They move through their surroundings with a remarkable sense of direction and purpose, relying on their other senses and their strong sense of community to guide them. This close-knit community is built on a foundation of faith and mutual support, and the villagers’ happiness is rooted in their acceptance of their circumstances and their profound appreciation for life.

The villagers are able to move around their homes and village easily, even though they are blind. This shows how strong and adaptable they are. Their faith and sense of community are a big part of their daily lives, and their story teaches us that inner strength and faith can help us overcome difficulties, even when things seem dark.

Even though the villagers are isolated and blind, they have built a strong and vibrant community based on their history and traditions. They greet visitors with kindness and warmth, sharing their stories and ways with those who care to listen.

The villagers’ acceptance of their fate is inspiring, and their resilience in the face of adversity is a lesson to us all. They have found a unique path to happiness, one that is not defined by their blindness, but by their strength, acceptance, gratitude and determination.