The Struggle of Salt Diggers in Niger’s Kalala Salt Pans
Introduction
Niger’s Kalala salt pans near Bilma in northeastern Niger were once a thriving business for salt traders. The commodity was so precious that it was bought and sold across the Sahara and beyond. Today, the diggers struggle to survive in an isolated desert region plagued by armed gangs and smugglers. In this article, we will explore the challenges faced by salt diggers in Niger’s Kalala salt pans.
History of Salt Digging in Kalala
Salt digging in Kalala has been carried on from generation to generation. Over centuries, hundreds of pits have been dug by hand and then filled with water to leach salt from the local rock. The salt pans were once an essential stop for traders with their swaying lines of camels. However, today, the region is isolated and plagued by armed gangs and smugglers.
The Struggle of Salt Diggers
Standing in the black and ochre pits, Ibrahim Tagaji and a colleague were wrestling with a crowbar to harvest the bounty – a method of extraction that essentially remains unchanged over time. A blisteringly hot day when temperatures reached 45C (113F) in the shade was coming to a close. Barefoot in brine swimming with crystals, the two men dug out salty chunks and pounded them into grains, which were then scooped out with a gourd. They poured the salt into moulds made from date palms, forming slabs that were then ready for sale.
It is hard work, rewarded by an income that fluctuates according to whichever buyers happen to pass through town. “When someone with money comes, you earn a lot,” Tagaji said between shovelfuls. “Otherwise, it’s a lot of work, and the money’s poor.” The local economy offers few alternatives, and roughly half of Bilma’s population still works in the pits, according to local officials. “As soon as you drop out of school, you have to work here,” said Omar Kosso, a veteran of the industry. “Every family has its own salt pan. You are with your wife, your children, you come and work.”
The Challenges Faced by Salt Diggers
The salt diggers in Kalala face numerous challenges. The region is isolated and plagued by armed gangs and smugglers. The diggers have to work in harsh conditions, with temperatures reaching up to 45C (113F) in the shade. The work is physically demanding and requires a lot of effort. The income is also not stable and fluctuates according to the buyers who happen to pass through town.
The Future of Salt Digging in Kalala
The future of salt digging in Kalala is uncertain. The region is isolated and plagued by armed gangs and smugglers. The work is physically demanding and requires a lot of effort. The income is also not stable and fluctuates according to the buyers who happen to pass through town. However, the local economy offers few alternatives, and roughly half of Bilma’s population still works in the pits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, salt digging in Niger’s Kalala salt pans near Bilma in northeastern Niger was once a thriving business for salt traders. Today, the diggers struggle to survive in an isolated desert region plagued by armed gangs and smugglers. The work is physically demanding and requires a lot of effort. The income is also not stable and fluctuates according to the buyers who happen to pass through town. However, the local economy offers few alternatives, and roughly half of Bilma’s population still works in the pits. The future of salt digging in Kalala is uncertain, but the diggers continue to work hard to make a living.