On August 14th, the Moroccan people unite to celebrate the 45th anniversary of the recovery of Oued Eddahab, a historic milestone in Morocco’s journey toward complete territorial integrity. This anniversary serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of national unity and the relentless pursuit of sovereignty that has characterized the Kingdom of Morocco throughout its history.
The recovery of Oued Eddahab in 1979 marked a critical moment in Morocco's modern history. On that day, representatives of Oued Eddahab's tribes, scholars, and notables traveled to the Royal Palace in Rabat to present their allegiance to the late King Hassan II. This was more than a symbolic gesture; it was a profound declaration of their unwavering loyalty to the Moroccan throne and their refusal to abandon their Moroccan identity despite external pressures.
King Hassan II's response to this pledge of allegiance underscored the significance of the moment. In his speech, the King emphasized the sacredness of the oath, vowing to protect and preserve the newly regained territory. He welcomed the people of Oued Eddahab back into the nation, celebrating the restoration of familial and national bonds that had been severed for too long. This reaffirmation of the deep-rooted connection between the people of the southern provinces and the Alaouite Throne highlighted the indestructible link that has withstood the test of time and adversity.
The ceremony at the Royal Palace, where King Hassan II distributed weapons to the tribal leaders, was a powerful reminder that the fight for sovereignty was ongoing and that every Moroccan had a role to play in safeguarding the nation. The subsequent visit of King Hassan II to Dakhla further solidified the bond between the throne and the people of the southern provinces, demonstrating the King’s commitment to the region’s development and security.
The recovery of Oued Eddahab was not only a political victory but also a catalyst for economic and social development in the region. Over the past four decades, Morocco has invested heavily in the southern provinces, transforming them into vibrant hubs of economic activity as part of a broader strategy to integrate these regions into the national economy and ensure their participation in the country’s overall development. The new development model for the southern provinces, launched by King Mohammed VI in 2015, exemplifies this vision. This ambitious plan aims to turn the region into a key economic center, with investments in infrastructure, education, and industry. Projects such as the Dakhla Atlantic Port, the Tiznit-Dakhla expressway, and renewable energy initiatives are designed to create jobs, stimulate growth, and improve the quality of life for the people of the region.
Oued Eddahab has emerged as a critical investment platform, attracting both national and international investors. Its strategic location, natural resources, and skilled workforce have made it a focal point for industries ranging from fisheries and agriculture to renewable energy and tourism. The region's three industrial zones—Port Industrial Zone, Assalam Industrial Zone, and Al Massira Industrial Zone—are hubs of economic activity, contributing to the region's dynamic growth.
The celebration of the 45th anniversary of Oued Eddahab’s recovery reflects the enduring unity and resilience of the Moroccan people. It is a reminder that the nation’s strength lies in its ability to overcome challenges, remain united in the face of adversity, and build a future that honors its past while embracing progress and development. As Morocco continues to invest in the southern provinces and promote their integration into the national economy, the legacy of Oued Eddahab’s recovery lives on—a legacy of commitment to territorial integrity, loyalty to the throne, and an unwavering belief in the future of a united and prosperous Morocco. Today, as the nation reflects on this historic event, it does so with pride and a renewed commitment to the values that have guided Morocco through centuries of change and challenge.
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