In Tuesday’s oral question session at the House of Councillors, Mbark Sbai, President of the Popular Movement Team, delivered a compelling speech urging the Moroccan government to activate the official status of the Amazigh language and prioritize local cultural heritage. He emphasized the importance of supporting traditional arts and cultural expressions as essential components of Morocco’s identity.
Sbai highlighted the crucial role of culture in societal development, criticizing the government’s lack of a comprehensive cultural policy that addresses Morocco’s challenges in this field. He noted that the culture sector’s budget, which accounts for only 0.28% of the national budget, is insufficient to achieve the desired objectives in this vital area.
In the context of celebrating the Amazigh New Year, Sbai called on the government to intensify efforts to implement the official recognition of the Amazigh language as outlined in the constitution and Organic Law No. 26-16. He stressed the need for a clear action plan to preserve Morocco’s linguistic and cultural diversity, including the Amazigh and Hassaniya languages.
Sbai also expressed concern over the deteriorating state of historic sites, including ancient cities, kasbahs, and palaces, which are integral to Morocco’s identity. He highlighted the urgent need to restore and rehabilitate these landmarks, citing the partial restoration progress of Dar Al-Bahr in Safi, where 50% of the work has been completed. However, he stressed the necessity of extending such efforts to other historical sites across the country.
Acknowledging the role of traditional artists, Sbai emphasized the importance of providing adequate support to individuals like the “cheikhates,” who embody Morocco’s rich cultural heritage. He urged the government to improve the professional and social conditions of these artists, many of whom continue to face neglect.
In conclusion, Mbark Sbai urged the government to place culture at the heart of its priorities by allocating sufficient resources to empower it as a driver of sustainable development. He called for collective action between government institutions and civil society to ensure the preservation and modernization of Morocco’s cultural heritage, aligning it with contemporary demands.
source : fesnews media