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Rabat – As mendicity and homelessness in Rabat reach all-time highs, the Wilaya, or administrative division of the city, is taking concrete measures to fight these phenomena.
The Wilaya of Rabat and the National Human Development Initiative (NHDI) have announced a plan for a campaign to fight deceit and combat homelessness. The operation will be conducted within the framework of the regional plan to combat risk.
A press release from the Wilaya published on Monday stated that for an explanation of the details of this plan the authorities have set up an institutional framework represented by the Provincial Social Assistance Committee, which brings together all departments concerned with social security and associative action.
A toll-free number has been set up for the public to report cases of dishonesty and homelessness (0800000202) for investigation and assistance.
Adhering to Bill 14.05, which organizes the activity of social centers in Morocco, the committee will use social assistance centers to implement the details of the plan. The committee is also mandated to improve services provided to the beneficiaries to help them achieve a successful socio-economic reintegration into society.
According to the press release, the Mohammedia Center for Social Protection in Rabat will play a key role in the execution of this strategy. The center will be designated as the main terminus for most of the homeless and panhandler cases collected by the assistance units of the center, local authorities, or social associations.
The center will provide medical assistance, adequate shelter, and basic necessities for the beneficiaries of the new program. Background checks will be completed for each welcomed individual in order to form the best plan for reintegration of each person.
The Wilaya and INDH’s press release indicated four possible approaches to maximize the center’s efficiency: reaching out to the families of the beneficiaries, mobilizing social assistance centers to accommodate the beneficiaries, offering sustainable economic solutions through social entrepreneurship and finally, raising societal and media awareness.
The press release also addressed the issue of “professional mendacity.” Authorities will consider taking legal measures to punish this phenomenon. Refusal to accept the proposed social assistance or the exploitation of children and people with special needs will lead to severe legal penalties.
