The 10 Events That Marked the Year 2024 in Morocco

The year 2024 witnessed several significant events that left their mark on the Moroccan scene. Here’s a review of the ten most important events that characterized this year:

1. Atlas Lions’ Disappointment in the Africa Cup of Nations
   The Moroccan national team exited the round of 16 in the Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, disappointing fans who expected better performance after the historic achievement in the Qatar World Cup.
2. Medical Students’ Protests
   Medical students’ protests continued for 11 months against the reform of the education system, with confrontations with authorities before reaching an agreement in November.
3. Celebrity Legal Issues
   Several Moroccan celebrities were involved in legal cases, including the broadcaster “Momo” who was sentenced to 4 months in prison.
4. France’s Recognition of Moroccan Sahara
   French President Emmanuel Macron officially announced France’s recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Sahara, strengthening relations between the two countries.
5. The Only Olympic Achievement
   Soufiane El Bakkali won Morocco’s only gold medal at the Paris Olympics, retaining his title in the 3000-meter steeplechase.
6. The “Sahara Escobar” Case
   The trial of 28 individuals began in the drug trafficking case known as “Sahara Escobar,” which involved prominent figures.
7. Family Code Reform
   The government presented proposals to reform the Family Code, including banning underage marriage and restricting polygamy.
8. Hosting the 2030 World Cup
   Morocco won the right to co-host the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal, a historic achievement for Moroccan football.
9. Success of Legal Cannabis Cultivation
   2024 saw success in organizing legal cannabis cultivation, with 2,169 hectares cultivated, producing a total of 4,082.4 tons.
10. General Population Census Results
    The general population census revealed significant demographic changes, with an increase in the elderly population and a decrease in the youth population, indicating a shift in Morocco’s population pyramid.

These ten events shaped the features of 2024 in Morocco, leaving a clear impact on various aspects of political, social, and sports life in the kingdom.