The International Festival of Saharan Cultures held in Amdjarass, Chad, has become a vibrant celebration of desert traditions and cultural exchange among numerous ethnic communities. With Niger as the guest of honor, the festival takes place in a picturesque setting against the UNESCO-listed Ennedi Massif and showcases a rich tapestry of music, dance, and traditional crafts. Attendees and organizers alike emphasized its significant role in fostering unity and preserving the intangible cultural heritage of the region.

Local representatives, including Mokhtar Abdallah, a Mauritanian mayor, praised the festival for serving as a bridge between different Saharan cultures, highlighting the importance of shared identity among peoples separated by national borders. This gathering presents the Sahara as a united cultural area and serves to dissolve divisions that might exist due to political boundaries. The festival also emphasizes a deeper understanding of heritage and tradition among participants and spectators, celebrating their shared histories and lifestyles.

Equestrian displays and camel races are among the key highlights of the festival, symbolizing the historical significance of these animals within Saharan cultures. A Chadian participant noted the cultural importance of beautifully adorned horses, likening their adornment to the necessity of clothing for humans. This focus on living heritage reflects a growing awareness of the need to cherish and transmit cultural practices that have been passed down through generations, ensuring that they remain vibrant and relevant in today's world.