Morocco’s State Policies Neglecting Imazighen Mountain Communities: An Obstacle for Rebuilding

Morocco is a country known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse population. However, there is one community that has been consistently neglected by the state policies – the Imazighen mountain communities. These communities, also known as the Berbers, have faced discrimination and marginalization for decades, hindering their progress and development. This long-standing neglect has created obstacles for displaced villagers who are still struggling to rebuild their lives.

The Imazighen people are the indigenous population of North Africa, with a history that dates back thousands of years. Despite being an integral part of Moroccan society, they have been subjected to discrimination and oppression. This can be traced back to the colonial period when the French and Spanish colonizers imposed their language and culture on the country, suppressing the Imazighen culture and identity.

Even after gaining independence in 1956, the Moroccan government continued to neglect the Imazighen communities. State policies were focused on promoting Arabization, leaving the Imazighen language, culture, and traditions on the sidelines. This neglect has resulted in a wide gap between the Imazighen mountain communities and the rest of the country.

The neglect of the Imazighen communities is most evident in the lack of infrastructure and basic services in their villages. Many of these villages are located in remote and mountainous areas, making it difficult for the government to provide essential services such as electricity, clean water, and healthcare. This has led to a high rate of poverty and a lack of access to education and job opportunities, further perpetuating the cycle of neglect.

Moreover, the Imazighen communities have also been excluded from the political sphere. They have been denied representation in the government, and their voices have not been heard in decision-making processes. This has resulted in a lack of representation and recognition of their rights and needs.

The neglect of the Imazighen communities has also had a significant impact on their displacement. Many villagers have been forced to leave their homes due to natural disasters, such as floods and earthquakes, or due to government-led development projects. However, the lack of support and resources from the government has made it challenging for these displaced villagers to rebuild their lives.

The neglect of the Imazighen communities is not only a violation of their basic human rights but also a hindrance to the country’s progress and development. These communities have a rich cultural heritage, and their inclusion and empowerment can contribute significantly to the country’s diversity and growth.

Fortunately, there have been some positive developments in recent years. In 2011, the Moroccan government officially recognized Tamazight, the Imazighen language, as one of the country’s official languages. This was a significant step towards acknowledging and preserving the Imazighen culture and identity. The government has also implemented some development projects in the Imazighen villages, such as building roads and schools, providing electricity, and promoting tourism in the region.

However, there is still a long way to go in addressing the neglect of the Imazighen communities. The government must take concrete actions to bridge the gap between these communities and the rest of the country. This includes providing equal access to education, healthcare, and job opportunities, as well as promoting their representation in the political sphere.

Furthermore, there needs to be a shift in societal attitudes towards the Imazighen communities. They should be recognized and celebrated as an essential part of Moroccan society, and their culture and traditions should be embraced and preserved.

In conclusion, Morocco’s state policies have consistently neglected the Imazighen mountain communities, maintaining divisions rooted in the colonial period. This neglect has resulted in a wide gap between these communities and the rest of the country, hindering their progress and development. It is time for the government to take proactive measures to address this neglect and empower the Imazighen communities. Only then can we truly move towards a more inclusive and prosperous Morocco.