Traditional “Mengaash” Production in Fez Faces Extinction Risk… Crafts Industry Chamber Seeks Solutions

This week, the Fez-Meknes Chamber of Traditional Industries held a meeting at its regional headquarters in Fez, where Najy Fakhari, the Chamber’s president, welcomed a group of artisans specialized in the traditional production of Mengaash—the tool used in carving Zellij tiles. The meeting was attended by the Chamber’s deputies and members, including Mohsin Hammama, Anwar Asal, Ibrahim Mastour, Abd al-Nasser Al-Amari, Abd al-Halim al-Fayzazi, Mohammed Bouidou, and Hassan Bokrane.

The gathering focused on the issues facing this sector, which is now at risk of extinction due to low demand and a lack of adequate support mechanisms. The meeting also discussed the negative impact of this crisis on the traditional Zellij industry, as Mengaash is a key tool in this craft, which is a cornerstone of Moroccan cultural heritage.

To address these challenges, the Chamber decided to support the artisans in establishing a professional cooperative, enabling them to organize more effectively and ensure the profession’s continuity. The importance of exploring sustainable ways to protect this craft and transmit its skills to future generations was emphasized to prevent its disappearance.

This meeting is part of the Chamber’s ongoing efforts to preserve traditional crafts in the region and ensure their longevity, recognizing the essential role of the traditional craft industry in the economic and cultural fabric of Morocco. The Chamber’s president reiterated the need for collaboration among all stakeholders, both professionals and supporting institutions, to secure the future of this craft and preserve it as an integral part of Moroccan identity.

📌 Source: Fes News

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