Artistic Celebration Amidst Challenges in Morocco
The Integrated Development Association of Morocco, known for organizing the renowned "Festi Baz" festival which celebrates the donkey, has announced a new artistic initiative titled "Colors of Beni Ammar." This event is supported by the Moroccan Professional Artists Union and the Regional Directorate of Culture in Fes-Meknes. In light of the ongoing constraints and precautionary measures implemented to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, the organizers have opted for a creative approach to maintain cultural engagement within the community.
Taking place over four days starting Thursday, this event is part of a broader developmental project advocated by the association, which aims to leverage culture as a fundamental driver for socio-economic and cultural benefits for the residents of the Beni Ammar Kasbah and its surrounding areas. Activities during this cultural gathering, which serves as a substitute for this year's "Festi Baz," will include the creation of murals in various locations throughout the Beni Ammar Zerhoun Kasbah, alongside workshops focusing on environmental awareness and the preservation of local historical landmarks. These initiatives will highlight the beauty of the kasbah and its vicinity, as well as prepare certain archaeological sites in the kasbah for a future submission for national heritage status.
Participating artists include notable figures such as Mustafa Ajma, Allal Al-Asimi, Al-Tahami Al-Fadli, Mohamed Al-Qadi, Habib Al-Hajami, Abdel Nabi Loukili, and Lemia Al-Floose, who will collaborate with the young talents from the kasbah. Previous editions of the "Festi Baz" festival have garnered significant media attention and public interest due to their cultural offerings, including unique competitions that celebrate the donkey, such as the donkey beauty pageant and speed races.
In light of the pandemic's negative impact, the organizing association has decided to postpone the 13th edition of "Festi Baz" until next summer, adhering to the safety measures mandated by Moroccan authorities. This festival is characterized as a Moroccan celebration dedicated to honoring the donkey, and last year's edition was held under the slogan "And in a Servant, Treat Him Justly," which, according to the organizers, conveyed a message advocating for the fair treatment of this hardworking, intelligent, and beautiful creature.
As reported by aawsat.com.
