MOULAY BOUZERKTOUNE
MOROCCO
2022
Contact
moulay-bouzerktoun.info
A watersports haven
The small fishing village Moulay Bouzerktoune, is a part of the argan biosphere reserve which looks out onto the Atlantic Ocean. The Argan forest plays an important role in terms of research and the socio-economic development of the village.
Thanks to the reserve, the locals of the eco-tourist village produce high quality organic products including argan foods, cosmetics, honey, soap, shampoo, and cream. The village is also famous for its fishing, agriculture and handwoven chiadma rugs, made of 100% natural wool.
The adventure destination has become known for its waves and sea breezes where conditions are optimal for windsurfing and kitesurfing. The first windsurfing competition of the “Windsurf trilogy” was organized here in 1997.
HIGHLIGHTS
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Public-private community partnership
To protect both coastlines and local agriculture, partnerships have been established between the municipality, police, private operators, NGOs, and civil society. Thanks to these partnerships a tourism strategy has been developed with an objective of promoting watersports and local agricultural products, namely argan and olives. The village has proven very popular amongst water sports enthusiasts (especially surfers) and it produces argan oil and endemic species comprising aromatic and medicinal plants.
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Sustainable employment
Through investment in small and medium tourism projects, the village is committed to promoting sustainable employment. It has unveiled several programs including the Moroccan National Initiative for Human Development (INDH), INTILAKA, and FORSA which have developed training and funding programs to support investment in small and
medium tourism projects. Those who have benefited include the local surf association, accommodation establishments, restaurants, surf clubs, equipment rental services, and the argan oil, fishing and local weaving industries.
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Reducing digital gap
To reduce the digital gap and create jobs, Moulay Bouzerktoune is facilitating the inclusion of young people, especially girls, to become increasingly involved in ecological and socially responsible projects.
The village has established partnerships with the Higher School of Technology, the Beaux-Arts, and various NGOs in the province to create a digital tourism platform in order to advance their sustainability performance.
