The Aerial Guardian of Kerkennah's Ancient Fishing Legacy: An Interview with Amine Hamouda

Q: Amine, thank you for joining us today. My name is Peter Auwerx, your interviewer at A Look Through A Lens & Beyond. Can you start by telling us what led you to Kerkennah and how this project began?

Amine Hamouda: Last summer, I visited the Kerkennah archipelago to escape the mainland’s hustle and bustle. I had no idea that this personal retreat would transform into such a profound journey. While exploring the island, I kept hearing about Karim Ben Chikha, the "island's drone artist." It wasn’t long before I met him in a local coffee shop. The islanders spoke about him with immense pride and admiration, and I quickly realized there was a fascinating story to uncover.

Q: Who is Karim Ben Chikha, and what makes his work so remarkable?

Amine Hamouda: Karim is an extraordinary individual. Living with muscle atrophy, he uses a motorized wheelchair, but he refuses to let that define him. Instead, he’s found his voice through his drone, which he uses to capture Kerkennah’s daily life in ways no one has ever seen. What’s truly remarkable is how his work has revealed something hidden in plain sight for generations: the stunning geometric patterns of El Charfiya, a UNESCO-recognized fishing technique.

Q: Can you explain what the Charfiya is and why it’s so significant?

Amine Hamouda: The Charfiya is an ancient, sustainable fishing method unique to Kerkennah. It involves a series of wooden structures and nets strategically placed to guide fish into traps. Karim’s drone footage shows these structures from above, revealing mesmerizing geometric patterns that resemble ancient Roman symbols. It’s both functional and artistic, and seeing it from this perspective has transformed how the local community views their own heritage.

Q: How did the local fishermen react when Karim first shared his drone footage with them?

Amine Hamouda: It was an unforgettable moment. These seasoned fishermen, who had worked the Charfiya all their lives, were absolutely awestruck. For the first time, they could see the beauty and complexity of their work from above. Karim’s footage gave them a new appreciation for their own traditions, and it strengthened their connection to their heritage.

Q: Karim’s personal connection to the Charfiya seems deeply intertwined with his work. Can you tell us more about that?

Amine Hamouda: Absolutely. Karim comes from a family of Charfiya fishermen, but his condition prevents him from physically participating in the practice. However, he’s found a powerful way to honor his family’s legacy. Through his drone, he’s documenting this cultural treasure for future generations, including his own daughter. His work is a deeply personal tribute to his father and grandfather, as well as a gift to the entire community.

Q: Your collaboration with Karim led to the documentary project "El Charfiya - KRATEN." How did this idea come to life?

Amine Hamouda: After understanding the profound significance of Karim’s work, I felt compelled to help bring his vision to a broader audience. This documentary isn’t just about a fishing technique; it’s a celebration of resilience, tradition, and innovation. By combining Karim’s aerial footage with ground-level and underwater perspectives, we’re creating a visual poem that honors the ancient wisdom of the Charfiya and Karim’s unique contribution.

Q: What tools are you using to capture the story of the Charfiya?

Amine Hamouda: We’re using a carefully selected suite of tools. Karim’s DJI Mavic 4 Mini drone captures the breathtaking aerial views, while our ground team uses Fuji XT4 and Sony A7 IV cameras to film the intimate human moments. Underwater, we’re using a GoPro Hero 11 to document the marine life thriving around the Charfiya structures. This combination mirrors the three-dimensional nature of the Charfiya itself, where sky, land, and sea converge.

Q: What message do you hope this documentary will convey to its audience?

Amine Hamouda: Through Karim’s lens, we’re inviting viewers to see the extraordinary in what might otherwise be taken for granted. The Charfiya isn’t just a fishing method; it’s a symbol of resilience, adaptation, and the enduring bond between a community and its heritage. In an age where traditional practices are often at risk of being forgotten, this documentary serves as a reminder of their beauty and importance.

Q: How has working on this project impacted you personally?

Amine Hamouda: It’s been incredibly humbling. Each day of filming reinforces how much of an honor it is to help Karim craft his life’s work. His story reminds me that limitations can spark innovation and that love for one’s heritage can find expression in unexpected ways. It’s been a privilege to witness how his unique perspective is inspiring his community and beyond.

Q: What’s next for you and the documentary?

Amine Hamouda: We’re continuing to film through the winter months, uncovering new patterns and connections every day. Once completed, we hope to share this documentary with a global audience, sparking conversations about the importance of preserving cultural heritage. For now, we’re fully immersed in capturing the magic of Kerkennah and Karim’s extraordinary vision.

Q: Any final thoughts you’d like to share?

Amine Hamouda: If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that sometimes we need to gain distance to truly see what’s closest to our hearts. Karim’s work exemplifies this beautifully. His drone isn’t just a tool; it’s a bridge that connects the past, present, and future, ensuring that the Charfiya’s legacy endures for generations to come. I hope our documentary inspires others to look at their own traditions with fresh eyes and a renewed sense of pride.

Peter Auwerx, Digital Media