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Tawfiq: Challenges Surrounding Religious Mission Visas and Mosque Closures Are Not Arbitrary
During a parliamentary session for oral questions, Minister of Islamic Affairs Ahmed Tawfiq revealed that the ministry is developing an online religious media program aimed at addressing several issues related to guiding Moroccans living abroad. He noted that there are difficulties in granting visas for some religious missions in several countries.
Tawfiq stated that this program will be broadcast daily for no less than three hours, allowing a significant number of Moroccans worldwide to follow and benefit from its content.
He emphasized that the ministry, in accordance with the high instructions of the Commander of the Believers, is working on a set of measures related to the religious guidance of Moroccans abroad, stressing that the success of this endeavor also depends on the awareness of Moroccans living overseas and their commitment, along with that of their children, to their religious values.
The government official mentioned the ongoing dispatch of qualified religious and scientific missions, enhanced coordination with embassies and consulates, support for mosque representatives’ associations, and organizing various religious and cultural activities. Additionally, mosques and Islamic centers are being supplied with copies of the Quran.
Regarding the closure of mosques in need of rehabilitation, Tawfiq reported that since the launch of the mosque rehabilitation program in 2010, 2,069 mosques have been rehabilitated at a total cost of 3.61 billion dirhams. Currently, 553 mosques are undergoing rehabilitation at a cost of approximately 1.16 billion dirhams, while 176 mosques are in the planning and licensing stages, costing around 193 million dirhams.
He noted that about 1,458 mosques remain closed and require rehabilitation, with total costs estimated at around two billion dirhams. Furthermore, nearly 230 mosques are closed annually following periodic inspections conducted under the supervision of governors and local officials.
Concerning the closure of the Sidi Bouzid Mosque in El Jadida, Tawfiq explained that the decision was made by the local governor to ensure public safety after its structural damage became evident. A specialized technical assessment confirmed the need for repairs, prompting the ministry to initiate a preliminary study for the repair project. This will pave the way for programming the rehabilitation work in the 2026 financial year.
The minister stressed that the procedures for closing mosques are not based on arbitrary decisions but are grounded in precise technical criteria aimed at protecting the safety of citizens.
In preparation for the holy month of Ramadan, Tawfiq highlighted that the ministry has intensified its efforts to ensure that religious rites are performed in a safe and serene environment. This includes the maintenance and rehabilitation of several mosques, the reopening of 302 mosques, equipping them with vacuum cleaners, and organizing extensive cleaning campaigns. Additionally, security and cleaning responsibilities have been delegated to 280 mosques at a cost of 40.5 million dirhams.
These measures also involve preparing the outdoor spaces of mosques to accommodate worshippers, improving comfort inside them, and equipping many with solar water heaters, while ensuring the continuity of water and electricity services.
In conclusion, Ahmed Tawfiq asserted that a mosque should not merely be a space for performing rituals; it should regain its essential role in effectively communicating the religion, creating a genuine impact on society.
