Rabat – Morocco’s government is strengthening Amazigh officialization measures as one of its priorities, Morocco’s government spokesperson Mustapha Baitas said during a press briefing on Thursday.
Baitas added that the past week saw the green light given to a number of programs to support the Amazigh language in public administrations and institutions to facilitate access to services for speakers of the language.
“There was also a substantial budget dedicated over the next four years to support Amazigh activities, artistic galleries, and initiatives that could add value to the material and intangible heritage of Amazigh culture,” the government spokesperson added.
The language will also be prominently displayed across government buildings, websites, and public transport, he continued.
The government has also begun translating public legislative texts in partnership with the Royal Institute of Amazigh Culture (IRCAM), with the translated versions being published as part of the government’s official newsletter.
The press briefing also addressed the Tifinagh script, with the spokesperson assuring attendees that the script if the official one used to write Amazigh in Morocco.
Notably, there was no confirmation whether the government would adopt Yennayer, the Amazigh new year, as an official holiday.
Amazigh people across Morocco and North Africa are celebrating the new year on Thursday, in festivities that include festive meals and parades. This year marks the year 2973 on the Amazigh calendar.
Despite a push from activists, the holiday is yet to be officially recognized by the state, despite some describing it as an essential part of Morocco’s culture and history.
In addition, many remain skeptical of the government’s efforts to officialize the language, with a recent report from the National Federation of Amazigh Associations (FNAA) saying that the process is still rife with difficulties and obstacles.
