Morocco Recognizes Berber New Year as Official Holiday

In a recent statement released by the royal court on behalf King Mohammed VI, the Amazigh or Berber New Year, traditionally celebrated on January 13, will be an official holiday in Morocco. The move marks an important step towards the acknowledgement of the Amazigh indigenous group that has been struggling for years to have their traditions and culture recognized.

The Amazigh population inhabit a large portion of North Africa, including Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Egypt. Morocco is home to North Africa’s largest Amazigh population, however, Amazigh language and culture have long been suppressed in favour of Arabic and French influences. In recent years, however, Amazigh language and culture have been given greater recognition in Morocco. The Moroccan government has increased the 2023 budget to support the Amazigh language to USD 30 million. Nevertheless, the Amazigh movement contains to campaign for greater recognition of its rights.

More information about the move to recognize the Amazigh New Year can be found on Al Jazeera.