Nouakchott has been the capital city since Mauritania gained independence in 1960 and has since become one of the biggest city of the Sahara. During the times of French colonization Nouakchott was just a small city. Unlike the other African capitals, the city, which is the busiest fishing center in West Africa, has undergone a serious construction process. Having hot and dry weather as a result of being in the Sahara Desert, Nouakchott best visited in December, January and February when the weather is colder compared to the other months.