Saadi: The Africa Cup is an opportunity to highlight Moroccan identity and a strong presence of handicrafts
The Secretary of State for Handicrafts, Lhassan Saadi, confirmed that Morocco’s hosting of the Africa Cup of Nations represents a national occasion to celebrate belonging to the Kingdom, under the wise leadership of King Mohammed VI. He praised the high level of organization of this continental event and the opening ceremony, which drew widespread attention both within Morocco and abroad.
During a session of oral questions at the House of Councillors, Saadi explained that this sporting event provides an opportunity to showcase Morocco’s image in its diversity and the richness of its cultural and civilizational potentials, highlighting that handicrafts hold a special place as a mirror of national identity and a manifestation of Moroccan authenticity and deep history.
The government official noted that King Mohammed VI granted his high patronage to the National Handicrafts Week, organized in partnership with the Artisan House, coinciding with the Africa Cup competitions and featuring various fan zones in the host cities.
He added that the handicrafts chambers have contributed, through their engagement, to organizing exhibitions and parallel events in several cities, including Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech, Fes, and Tangier, affirming that the presence of handicrafts has become prominent in public spaces, as seen on Al-Nasr Street in the capital.
Saadi confirmed that the sector is participating vigorously in this continental event to showcase the diversity of Moroccan traditional products and present a brilliant image of it to the Kingdom’s guests, noting the participation of craftsmen from friendly African countries in an atmosphere that reflects the spirit of cooperation and openness.
The Secretary of State revealed that nearly 300 exhibitors are participating in the National Handicrafts Week activities, with a diverse program that includes showcasing traditional products, organizing interactive workshops led by cooperatives and professionals, along with artistic and musical performances, and displays of the Moroccan caftan and authentic culinary arts.
He explained that these initiatives are part of the handicrafts sector’s contribution to the success of the Africa Cup of Nations, announcing a second phase of the National Handicrafts Week after the competitions conclude, scheduled from February 9 to 15, featuring an international forum with participants from various countries.
In conclusion, Saadi expressed his gratitude to all partners for their support, giving special recognition to the handicrafts chambers and artisans for their efforts in representing Moroccan handicrafts honorably during this continental event.
