Boubacar Ould Messaoud, a notable leader in the anti-slavery movement in Mauritania, died on March 12 at the age of 80. He was the founder of SOS Esclaves, an organization established in 1995 aimed at eradicating slavery in Mauritania and supporting the reintegration of slavery victims into society. For many years, the organization operated without official recognition, finally gaining legal status in 2005, illustrating the challenges faced in the fight against slavery in the country. Ould Messaoud was a significant advocate for the rights of Afro-Mauritanians and worked tirelessly for equality among all Mauritanian citizens. Hailing from Rosso, he was not only known for his activism but also faced severe repercussions, including imprisonment, for his work. His efforts were globally acknowledged, earning him several international human rights awards, which reflected the importance of his advocacy both locally and on an international stage. His death marks a substantial loss for the anti-slavery movement in Mauritania, as he was not only a mentor to many activists but also a symbol of resilience against oppression. The ongoing struggle against slavery in Mauritania, which has deep historical and social roots, now faces the challenge of continuing without his leadership and vision, leaving a significant void in the fight for human rights in the region.