Inspired by the Arab Spring, young people in Imider began protesting in 2011. They protested not only against the mine's disastrous ecological impact, but also against the mining company's refusal to employ local workers. They shut down the tap of one of Managem's largest wells, set up a camp and began occupying the area. Taking their name from the 1996 protest campaign, the social movement known as Movement Route 96 was started by young people under the Berber flag to defend the right to water, land and a decent life.
Photo's: Filip Claus