Rabat – The Moroccan NGO Mekkil’ is extending its rural bicycle program to help children, including those affected by the Al Haouz earthquake, stay in school and improve access to education.
Supported by the Decathlon International Solidarity Fund and the King Baudouin Foundation, the initiative will run for three years to provide mountain bikes (VTTs) to students in remote villages.
For nearly two years, Mekkil’ has been active in areas affected by the Al Haouz earthquake by working on access to clean water, hygiene, and school equipment. The new stage of its program focuses on giving bicycles to middle and high school students in the mountainous Amizmiz region.
The project targets eight isolated villages where students often have to walk up to 12 kilometers every day to reach school. With a bike, they can travel faster, more safely, and with less fatigue, says the NGO in a press release.
“Before, my son spent more than an hour walking to school. He would arrive exhausted, sometimes late. Since he got his bike, he leaves with a smile and comes back with stories of friendship and progress,” says Fatima, a mother from Taguenza.
The NGO distributes bikes based on lists provided by schools and approved by the local commune president. It added that each student receives follow-up support to make sure the bike is well maintained and used for schooling.
Strong impact
According to the statement, the program’s impact has been so strong that some families have moved to participating villages so their children can benefit.
Mekkil’ then decided to extend the “Tariq VTT” operation to more villages in coordination with schools and local authorities.
Teachers have reported positive changes, including better attendance, punctuality, and concentration in class, added the statement.
“The bike is a symbol of momentum. After the earthquake, it represents our will to rebuild with dignity, giving children the means to shape their own future,” said a Mekkil’ spokesperson.
The program will continue for three years, with regular evaluations, repair workshops, and local partnerships to ensure it lasts. Mekkil’ has called on institutions, companies, and citizens to support the initiative.
In September 2023, the Al Haouz region was struck by a devastating earthquake that left many villages damaged and communities struggling to recover.
Schools, roads, and basic services were heavily affected, making access to education even more difficult for children living in remote areas.
