Civil Society Prize Honors innovative Initiatives in Morocco
Table of Contents
In a vibrant ceremony held Thursday evening in Rabat,the Civil Society Prize celebrated the achievements of seven associations and five individuals,marking the 6th edition of this prestigious award. The event, presided over by Mustapha Baitas, Minister Delegate in charge of Relations with Parliament and Government spokesperson, recognized the exceptional contributions and groundbreaking initiatives that have significantly impacted society in 2024.
The ceremony, attended by representatives from civil society associations and prominent figures from the political, intellectual, cultural, and media spheres, highlighted the vital role of these organizations and individuals in driving positive change across Morocco.
Local Associations and NGOs: Addressing Critical Social Issues
In the category of local associations and NGOs, the first prize was jointly awarded to the Bayt Bahia association, which focuses on caring for abandoned and disabled children in Beni Mellal, and the Somnid association for Social Development of Azilal. Somnid’s initiative, “Family Reception Center of Excellence,” aims to combat school dropouts among rural girls, notably orphans.
The second prize went to the Jawharat Sahara association, which launched “Spaces for Economic Empowerment of Women in the Laâyoune-Sakia El Hamra Region,” addressing the economic challenges faced by women in the area.
National associations and NGOs: Promoting Lasting Development
The national associations category saw the local development association – Morocco take the top prize for its multi-sectoral approach to improving public health in Chefchaouen through training, renewable energies, and social and solidarity economy initiatives.The Halqa association for science and technology in Casablanca won the second prize for its “breaking Barriers to STEM Education in Rural Areas” initiative.
Moroccans Abroad: Strengthening Community Bonds
Among Moroccans living abroad, the Smile humanitarian association of Brussels received the first prize for its “SOS SEISME MAROC” initiative, which provided aid to communities affected by the Al Haouz earthquake. The Moroccan Community League in Qatar was awarded the second prize for its “Annual Ramadan Futsal League,” which fosters community bonding and strengthens ties with Morocco.
civilian Personalities: Driving Innovation and Cultural Preservation
In the civilian personalities category, Youssef Ait Ali Abrim was recognized for his innovative technological devices designed for people with specific needs. Hassan Akhwad from Tiznit received the second prize for his “Tifinagh Olympiad” initiative, which promotes the Amazigh language.
Among Moroccans abroad, Jalal Dawam from Vienna and Souad Naaimi from France jointly won the first prize for their initiatives focused on carbon emission reduction and mentoring Moroccan doctoral students, respectively.Samir Faki from Florida received the second prize for his “Car Rally – Peace March,” advocating for the Moroccan Sahara cause.
Minister Baitas: A National Recognition of Civil Society’s Role
During his address,Minister Baitas emphasized that the Civil Society Prize is a national acknowledgment of the significant contributions and innovative initiatives of these associations. He noted that this recognition is institutionalized by the Moroccan constitution, in line with the royal directives.
Baitas also highlighted the growing interest in the prize, with this year’s edition receiving 472 applications, up from 280 in 2023. This surge reflects the increasing importance of the Civil Society Prize in fostering community development and innovation.
The Civil Society Prize continues to be a beacon of hope and innovation, celebrating those who tirelessly work towards a better future for Morocco and its diaspora.
Moroccan Civil Society Honored with Prestigious Award
In a significant recognition of the vital role of civil society, the president of the jury, Najima Tay Tay, emphasized the importance of the award as a tribute to the actions of civil society. This recognition highlights the authentic values of Moroccans, particularly in areas such as solidarity, and celebrates the contributions of Moroccan initiatives worldwide.
“This prize is an prospect to pay tribute to the action of civil society, which reflects the authentic values of Moroccans in terms of solidarity, while promoting the contributions of civil initiatives of Moroccans around the world.”
Najima Tay Tay, President of the Jury
Tay Tay further underscored the critical role of civil organizations in managing local affairs, aligning with the specific needs and priorities of communities. Their contributions to reform and development processes were also highlighted, showcasing their impact on a broader scale.
Launch of the “Golden Book” on Société-Civile.ma
As part of the ceremony, the unveiling of the “Golden book” on the national platform of associations, société-civile.ma, was announced. This innovative initiative aims to document and celebrate the pioneering achievements of Moroccan associations and those of Moroccans globally. The “Golden Book” serves as a dedicated space to honor and preserve the legacy of these impactful organizations.
This recognition not onyl highlights the significant contributions of civil society but also reinforces the importance of community-driven initiatives in shaping a brighter future for Morocco and its diaspora.
Interview: Celebrating the Impact of Moroccan Civil Society and diaspora Initiatives
In a recent ceremony in Rabat, the Civil Society Prize honored seven associations and five individuals for their outstanding contributions to Moroccan society and its diaspora.This prestigious award,now in its 6th edition,underscores the vital role of civil society in driving positive change and innovation. We sat down with Dr. Ahmed El-Mekkaoui, a renowned expert on Moroccan civil society and diaspora initiatives, to discuss the significance of this event and the broader impact of thes organizations and individuals.
The Importance of Civil Society in Morocco
Senior Editor: Dr. El-Mekkaoui, thank you for joining us today. The Civil Society Prize is a significant recognition for the work of associations and individuals in Morocco. Why do you think it’s significant to celebrate these contributions?
Dr. El-Mekkaoui: Thank you for having me.The Civil Society Prize is crucial because it highlights the indispensable role of civil society in addressing critical social issues, promoting progress, and fostering community bonds. These organizations and individuals often operate on the frontlines,tackling challenges that governments alone cannot address.By recognizing their efforts, we not onyl celebrate their achievements but also inspire others to engage in similar initiatives.
Local and National Associations: Addressing Diverse Needs
Senior Editor: The prize recognized both local and national associations this year. Can you tell us more about the initiatives that stood out and their impact on society?
Dr. El-Mekkaoui: Certainly. The Bayt Bahia association, which focuses on caring for abandoned and disabled children in Beni Mellal, and the Somnid association for Social Development of Azilal, with its “Family Reception Center of Excellence,” are prime examples of how local associations can address pressing social issues. These initiatives not only provide essential services but also empower communities to take charge of their own development.
On the national level, the local development association – Morocco, which works on improving public health in Chefchaouen through various initiatives, and the Halqa association for science and technology in Casablanca, with its “Breaking Barriers to STEM Education in Rural Areas” project, demonstrate the broader impact of civil society in promoting lasting development.
the Role of Moroccans Abroad
Senior Editor: The diaspora plays a significant role in these initiatives. How do you see their contributions strengthening community bonds and addressing global challenges?
Dr. El-Mekkaoui: The contributions of Moroccans abroad are invaluable. As a notable example, the Smile humanitarian association of Brussels, with its “SOS SEISME MAROC” initiative, provided immediate aid to communities affected by the Al Haouz earthquake. Similarly, the Moroccan Community League in Qatar, through its “Annual Ramadan Futsal League,” fosters community bonding and strengthens ties with Morocco. These initiatives not only address specific challenges but also reinforce the global Moroccan identity.
Innovation and Cultural Preservation
Senior Editor: The prize also recognized civilian personalities for their innovative and cultural preservation efforts. Can you elaborate on the significance of these initiatives?
Dr.El-Mekkaoui: Absolutely. Youssef Ait Ali Abrim’s innovative technological devices for people with specific needs and hassan Akhwad’s ”Tifinagh Olympiad,” which promotes the Amazigh language,are excellent examples of how individuals can drive innovation and cultural preservation. These initiatives not only contribute to societal progress but also ensure that Morocco’s rich cultural heritage is preserved and celebrated.
The Broader Impact of the Civil Society Prize
Senior Editor: how do you see the Civil Society Prize impacting Morocco and its diaspora in the long term?
Dr. El-Mekkaoui: The Civil Society Prize serves as a powerful catalyst for positive change. By recognizing and celebrating the achievements of these organizations and individuals, it reinforces the importance of community-driven initiatives and inspires others to get involved. This recognition not only strengthens civil society but also reinforces the bonds between Morocco and its diaspora, ensuring a brighter future for all.
Senior Editor: Thank you, Dr. El-Mekkaoui, for your insightful comments. It’s clear that the Civil Society Prize plays a vital role in highlighting the contributions of Moroccan civil society and its diaspora, fostering innovation, and driving positive change.
Dr. El-Mekkaoui: It was my pleasure. Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this critically important topic.