Bensaid: The Restoration of Historical Landmarks as a Catalyst for Heritage Protection and Cultural Tourism
Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, the Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, confirmed that his ministry continues to implement restoration and rehabilitation programs for several archaeological sites and historical structures damaged across various regions of Morocco. This involves cataloging and classifying them and conducting the necessary technical studies.
During the weekly oral questions session at the House of Representatives on Monday, Bensaid noted that the inventory of historical landmarks nationwide and the provision of legal protection for them are fundamental approaches to preserving heritage. He emphasized that safeguarding this legacy requires its identification and classification within national and world heritage lists.
The minister pointed out that the ministry is signing partnership agreements with institutional actors and local communities to enhance efforts aimed at saving historical monuments and sites. He highlighted that the strategy adopted since 2021 focuses on investing in these monuments, which enables the cultural sector to develop its self-generated income and encourages mobilization of the Cultural Activation Fund to invest in as many historical landmarks as possible.
In response to a question regarding the status of the Tunisian zaouia in the outskirts of Sidi Bennour, Bensaid considered this building a model of the sites the ministry is working on—not only from a restoration perspective but also in terms of promoting it. He stressed that this approach is part of efforts to attract both Moroccan and foreign tourists.
Regarding historical palaces, the Minister explained that their management is coordinated with other sectors due to the presence of residents, issues related to heirs, and owners’ preferences regarding interventions. He mentioned that the ministry is handling these matters in a participatory manner.
In another context, Bensaid stated that the ministry currently oversees 685 youth centers, 167 community sports centers, 53 reception centers, and 42 camping centers. He emphasized that the rehabilitation and development achievements during the current government term involved 450 youth institutions, including 316 youth centers, 52 community sports centers, 40 reception centers, and 42 camping centers.
