Manufacturing is on a relatively small scale. Fish processing is an important industry in this sector of the economy. Local crafts include carpet and rug production, leatherwork, jewellery and silverwork. The art of Mauritania is influenced by Islamic and African art. Most African art is not produced for the sake of art, but lies in the decoration and design of everyday or religious objects, all of which have a function of their own.
Ceremonial masks are one example of the type of religious objects.
Mauritanian music is influenced by the West African music of Mali and by Arabic North African music. Snorkelling and diving are also popular. For the local people, football is probably the most popular sport, as it is throughout Africa. The main national holiday is Independence Day. The few Christians in Mauritania celebrate Christmas and Easter, as do their counterparts throughout the world.