Tevragh-Zeina: The Heartbeat of Nouakchott

• HelloNgeno
  [ngé-no]
• GoodbyeSalam
  [sa-lam]
• YesEewe
  [ee-we]
• NoAla
  [a-la]
• Please/You're welcomeNalaa
  [na-la-a]
• Thank youMbarakullah
  [m-ba-ra-kul-lah]
• Excuse me/SorryLahala
  [la-ha-la]
• How are you?Nde nde?
  [nde nde]
• Fine. And you?Nde naan. Nde?
  [nde na-an. nde]
• Do you speak English?Nde ndu Anglai?
  [nde ndu ang-lai]
• I don't understandLahum
  [la-hum]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNde feeri menu, jow
  [nde fe-ri me-nu, jow]
• I don't eat meatNde laa jiidu ndee
  [nde la jii-du nde-e]
• Cheers!Beri!
  [be-ri]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNde joo ngeen, jow
  [nde jo n-gen, jow]

• Help!Nde def
  [nde def]
• Go away!Nde ngeen
  [nde n-gen]
• Call the Police!Nde wakar polis
  [nde wa-kar po-lis]
• Call a doctor!Nde wakar doktar
  [nde wa-kar dok-tar]
• I'm lostNde jowlaa
  [nde jow-laa]
• I'm illNde joo ndee
  [nde jo nde-e]

• I'd like to buy...Nde feeri...
  [nde fe-ri...]
• I'm just lookingNde joolo jow
  [nde jo-lo jow]
• How much is it?Nde lu jow?
  [nde lu jow]
• That's too expensiveJowlu ndee ngoy
  [jow-lu nde-e n-goy]
• Can you lower the price?Nde joo tugga jow?
  [nde jo tu-gga jow]

• What time is it?Nde laati ndee?
  [nde laa-ti nde-e]
• It's one o'clockNdya jow
  [nd-ya jow]
• Half past (10)Nde fakki (10)
  [nde fak-ki (10)]
• MorningNde gawlo
  [nde gaw-lo]
• AfternoonNde worgo
  [nde wor-go]
• EveningNde boole
  [nde boo-le]
• YesterdayNde jeeri
  [nde jee-ri]
• TodayNde laa
  [nde laa]
• TomorrowNde bokko
  [nde bok-ko]
• 1Barka
  [bar-ka]
• 2Jiiri
  [jee-ri]
• 3Luba
  [lu-ba]
• 4Nyaak
  [nya-ak]
• 5Jooka
  [joo-ka]
• 6Jebb
  [jebb]
• 7Saba
  [sa-ba]
• 8Tamaani
  [ta-maa-ni]
• 9Tisaa
  [ti-saa]
• 10Joo
  [jow]

• Where's a/the...?Nde jow...?
  [nde jow]
• What's the address?Nde laati ndee?
  [nde laa-ti nde-e]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Nde joo faw ndee (jow nde map)?
  [nde jo faw nde-e (jow nde map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Nde laati ndee (nbus)?
  [nde laa-ti nde-e (n-bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Nde faw (to ....)
  [nde faw (to ....)]

Tevragh-Zeina, established as part of the urban expansion of Nouakchott in the 1960s, reflects the city’s transformation from a small fishing village into the capital of Mauritania. The neighborhood's name, which translates to 'the place of the ruins,' indicates its historical significance, as it was built atop earlier settlements that date back to the pre-colonial period.

During the French colonial period in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Tevragh-Zeina began to develop more structured urban planning. The French administration aimed to modernize Nouakchott and its surrounding areas, which led to the introduction of Western-style architecture and infrastructure in Tevragh-Zeina, a process that fundamentally altered the cultural landscape of the neighborhood.

Following Mauritania's independence in 1960, Tevragh-Zeina experienced significant growth as the government focused on urban development. The construction of new schools, hospitals, and public facilities reflected the aspirations of the newly independent state to foster a modern national identity. This period also saw an influx of people from rural areas seeking opportunities in the capital.

Tevragh-Zeina is known for its rich cultural diversity, housing various ethnic groups, including the Moors, Wolof, and Soninke. This blend of cultures is evident in local markets, cuisine, and festivals, which contribute to the vibrant social fabric of the neighborhood. The community often gathers for traditional events, showcasing Mauritania's rich oral history and musical heritage.

In recent years, Tevragh-Zeina has faced urban challenges such as overcrowding and infrastructure strain due to rapid population growth. However, ongoing development projects aim to improve housing, transportation, and public services. The neighborhood remains a focal point for cultural exchange and reflects the complexities of urban life in Nouakchott.

Tevragh-Zeina is located in the northeastern part of Nouakchott. From the city center, you can take a taxi or a shared minibus (known as 'taxi-brousse') to reach the area. The journey typically takes around 15-30 minutes, depending on traffic. If you are coming from the airport, hiring a taxi is the most convenient option, costing approximately 15,000 to 20,000 Ouguiyas.

Tevragh-Zeina is primarily a residential area, and the best way to get around is on foot or by taxi. Local buses operate within Nouakchott and can be used to travel to nearby neighborhoods. Bicycles are not commonly used, but some locals may offer bicycles for rent. For longer distances, taxis are readily available and should be negotiated before getting in.

Tevragh-Zeina is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Be cautious in the outskirts where petty crime may occur. It's advisable to stay away from certain areas known for higher crime rates, such as the outskirts near the old city. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 17 for police assistance and 15 for medical emergencies. Local hospitals and clinics are available in Nouakchott, with the nearest being the National Hospital. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital upon arrival.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in public areas and when visiting mosques. Avoid shorts and sleeveless tops. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to the elderly or pregnant women. Don't engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with a handshake, often followed by a smile or nod. Eating & Drinking: Do try local food at street vendors. Don't eat in public during Ramadan.

To experience Tevragh-Zeina like a local, visit the neighborhood markets, especially during the early morning hours. Engage with vendors and try traditional Mauritanian snacks. Participate in local events or cultural festivals if your visit coincides with them. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases can also help you connect with the community and enhance your experience.