Page 40 - Q1 2021

FEATURE

THE WOMEN

OF TIMBUKTU

By Maimouna El‑Oumrany

I accidentally came across an old postcard from
Timbuktu depicting a Tuareg woman in formal
attire, her face was half covered, leaving only her
eyes visible. I was captivated! Like the explorers
of Andalusia, like the Moorish scholars, like the
Moroccan conquerors, or like the French writers!
In her enchanting gaze lies an audacity. That of
The eyes of the woman of Timbuktu will captivate the sensual and charming woman. The woman
you, taking your breath away, taking you by surprise. of Timbuktu, like all women in the desert, is a
They will disturb you. In this bewitching gaze you free, straightforward woman who chooses her
can read a story. That of indomitable and subtle life partner and fully asserts her sexuality. She is a
women. fulfilled woman who can sometimes be frightening
as her freedom is so important. This woman has
Being emblematic of a matriarchal society, these never felt inferior to a man, she just never felt inferior.
women of the desert have never had to struggle Why should she?
to impose themselves. They are the leaders and
that is not questionable. No need to fight for their The woman of Timbuktu is known as a good cook
recognition as such, that is obvious. They are the and excellent hostess. If you are lucky enough to
strongest. They are the mothers of the fearsome be invited to one of those typical Timbuktu houses
warriors. They are the wives of the skillful and made of stone and with large, studded doors, you
prosperous merchants. They are the muses of will be welcomed like a king. Chances are that milk,
poets and scholars. meat and mint tea will be on the menu. You will eat
well and feel at home.
In her bewitching gaze one can perceive a force
imposed by the austerity and frugality of life in the As for the education of her offspring, she most
desert. One must learn to live with little, against all often shares it with the Medersas (Koranic schools),
odds, and keep one’s dignity in any circumstance. the mandatory step for every child in Timbuktu and
The woman of Timbuktu embodies resilience in any the desert. It comforts, it sometimes entertains, but
situation. above all it has this power to teach humility through

40 | The Lion King | Jan - Mar 2021