On January 17, 2024, everything changed in Imsouane. This date marked the beginning of a significant upheaval as military presence became noticeable around town. They began knocking on the doors of Cathedral’s small houses, located just a few meters away from the surf spot, with a warning: the following day, they would return to demolish the houses. Residents were given a mere 24 hours to vacate their homes and businesses, sometimes even less. The first houses in this neighborhood had been built 50 years ago, while the most recent constructions were only a few months old. By the next day, it became evident that not only the residents of Cathedral were leaving, but also those in Imsouane Bay and everything in between. Within 48 hours, the entire beachfront of Imsouane, once the heart of this small village, lay in ruins.
Why was Imsouane destroyed?
The heart of this small village, known for fishing and surfing, thrived along the beachfront. However, it appears that the constructions did not have the necessary permits, as building so close to the sea was prohibited. Despite attempting to circumvent regulations by bribing the local municipality, the order for demolition came directly from the government itself, leaving the municipality powerless to protect the residents. For decades, residents had been aware that relocation might be inevitable, but the abruptness of the action caught them off guard. The Moroccan government has embarked on a nationwide cleanup campaign, particularly targeting tourist areas in a bid to attract affluent European tourists and present a favorable image of the country ahead of the 2030 World Cup, which Morocco will co-host with Spain and Portugal.
Can tourists still visit Imsouane?
Absolutely. What remains of Imsouane is the upper town, characterized by larger, legally constructed buildings and a few sizable hostels situated above Imsouane Bay. Here, visitors can still find some restaurants and surf shops. Though the atmosphere may not be the same as before, visiting tourists can contribute to the local economy, which heavily relies on tourism.
What does the future hold for Imsouane?
To attract wealthier tourists, the government plans to issue licenses for the reconstruction of a portion of the city center, albeit not directly along the beachfront as before. New constructions will aim to meet European standards of comfort, similar to developments seen between Taghazout and Tamraght in recent years. Fishermen will be relocated by the government, and former residents will return to their family homes, albeit farther into the mountains. One thing is certain: the unique energy that once characterized Imsouane will never be quite the same.
How to help the people of Imsouane?
You can sign the petition here for free, or donate to their GoFundMe.
Source: The Digital Surf Tribe team in Imsouane
