NOUADHIBOU, Mauritania — Mauritania has opened a new nationwide celebration of culture, arts and heritage, with the National Week of Culture and Arts officially launched in Nouadhibou.

The programme, which began on September 28, brings together exhibitions, seminars, artistic performances and competitions, with activities focusing on literature, creative talent, cultural heritage and national traditions.

Organisers are staging activities across the country's wilayas, giving local artists, cultural figures, intellectuals and young people opportunities to participate and present regional traditions.

The programme also highlights Mauritania's efforts to preserve manuscripts, archaeological sites, historical monuments and linguistic and cultural diversity. Officials said cultural infrastructure and museums are also receiving attention as part of the broader cultural programme.

Nouadhibou is being presented not only as an industrial and port city but also as a location with its own history, heritage and cultural identity.

The national programme adds to a busy cultural period in Mauritania, following recent regional festivals including the cultural festival of Boumbri and the National Week activities in Tiris Zemmour.