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Rabat – Today, Morocco celebrates the 45th anniversary of the recovery of the region of Oued Ed-Dahab, a significant event in the country’s history that symbolizes unity and sovereignty of the country’s territory in the Western Sahara.
The recovery of Oued Ed-Dahab is an important milestone in Morocco’s efforts to reclaim its territorial integrity. Located in the southern part of the country, this region was the last major piece of land to be reintegrated into the country, following a long period of colonization of the Sahara.
What is the history of this region?
The historical context of Oued Ed-Dahab’s recovery is rooted in the broader struggle for independence from colonial powers. Morocco, under the leadership of King Mohammed V, gained its independence from France and Spain in 1956.
However, the decolonization process did not include all Moroccan territories. The southern provinces, including Oued Ed-Dahab, remained under Spanish control.
For many years, the Moroccan government pursued diplomatic and legal efforts to reintegrate these territories. The turning point came in 1975 with the Green March, a peaceful mass demonstration led by King Hassan II.
This event involved over 350,000 Moroccans who marched into the Sahara, waving flags and carrying the Quran, to claim the land as part of Morocco. The Green March was a powerful symbol of the Moroccan people’s commitment to their territorial integrity.
Following the Green March, Morocco gradually regained control of the southern provinces. The final step in this process occurred on August 14, 1979, when the leaders of the Oued Ed-Dahab region declared their allegiance to King Hassan II and Morocco. This moment marked the official reintegration of the region into the country.
Significance of Oued Ed-Dahab Day
The recovery of Oued Ed-Dahab is more than just a territorial gain for Morocco, it is a symbol of national unity and pride. Each year, the anniversary is celebrated across the country with various events, including parades, cultural activities, and official ceremonies.
For Moroccans, Oued Ed-Dahab Day is an opportunity to reflect on the achievements that have been made in its southern provinces since its recovery. The Moroccan government has invested heavily in infrastructure, education, and economic development in Oued Ed-Dahab and other southern regions.
These efforts have transformed the region by improving the quality of life for its residents and integrating it more fully into the national economy.
The anniversary also highlights Morocco’s ongoing commitment to the development of its southern provinces in the Sahara.
Key developmental initiatives
In recent years, the government has launched several ambitious projects aimed at boosting economic growth and improving living standards in the region.
This includes the construction of modern road networks, airports, and ports, such as the expansion of Dakhla’s airport and the development of the Dakhla Atlantic Port. These projects aim to enhance connectivity and make it easier to transport goods and people.
The Moroccan government, in partnership with international allies like the United States and France, has launched various economic growth projects. For example, the US State Department recently announced a grant to fund projects in Laayoune and Dakhla aimed at boosting inclusive economic growth.
These initiatives focus on empowering underserved communities, including women, youth, and people with disabilities, by providing job skills and entrepreneurship training.
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In addition, the government has promoted tourism as a key sector for economic growth in the region, particularly in Dakhla, which has become a significant tourist destination.
Morocco has also been investing in renewable energy projects in its southern provinces, such as solar and wind farms, which align with the country’s commitment to sustainable development.
These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to ensure that the benefits of development are shared across all parts of the country.
King Mohammed VI has outlined a vision through the New Development Model (NMD), which includes specific goals for these southern provinces. The NDM aims to make these regions a hub of development, not just within Morocco but across Africa.
By 2025, the goal is to significantly increase the GDP of this region and create thousands of new jobs.
