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How climate change is impacting the livelihood of the semi-normadic Marsh Arabs

🐊 How climate change is impacting the livelihood of the semi-normadic Marsh Arabs 🌿

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The Ahwaris, also known as the semi-nomadic Marsh Arabs, have inhabited the marshlands at the convergence of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers for thousands of years. Although their exact population is not precisely documented, estimates suggest there are around 50,000 Ahwaris in Iraq and approximately 20,000 in Iran (UNDP, 2023). Their history spans at least 5,000 years, making them one of the oldest surviving indigenous groups in the region (UNESCO, 2016).


A Unique Culture Rooted in the Marshes

The Ahwaris’ way of life remains closely tied to the marshes. They construct their homes on floating islands known as tuhul, using reeds and Qasab grass sourced locally. These reed-based dwellings, built without nails, wood, or glass, have been crafted using the same sustainable methods for centuries, minimizing their ecological footprint. Their portability allows them to adapt to fluctuating water levels (Eden in Iraq, 2022).


Challenges: Climate Change, Conflict, and Migration

The Ahwaris have faced significant hardships due to conflict, economic struggles, and limited access to essential services. Climate change has further exacerbated their difficulties, with droughts and dam projects reducing the marshes to nearly one-third of their size from a century ago (UNESCO, 2016). As water sources dry up, many Ahwaris are forced to migrate to urban areas, leaving behind their traditional occupations and disrupting social cohesion.

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Hope Through Eco-Tourism

Eco-tourism has emerged as a potential solution to preserve the Ahwari way of life while creating economic opportunities, particularly for women and youth. By fostering sustainable development, tourism initiatives can help reduce migration, enhance community stability, and safeguard the region’s cultural heritage (UNDP, 2023).

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A Cultural Legacy: Abuḏiya Poetry and Song

Despite modern challenges, Ahwaris continue to preserve their rich cultural traditions, including abuḏiya—a poetic and musical form expressing grief, longing, and resilience. Often compared to the Blues, abuḏiya remains a testament to the endurance of the Ahwari people. A notable example is the performance of Masoud El Amaratly, an Iraqi singing legend (YouTube, 2023).


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