Imsouane
The earth keeps spinning and the waves keep rolling
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Amidst the tranquil harmony of Imsouane, a sudden 24-hour notice disrupts its timeless rhythm. As Morocco prepares for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, locals face evic8on, threatening the essence of this cherished coastal gem.
Metamorphosis
Where the ocean meets the desert and the sky meets the soil, Imsouane's inhabitants rose with the sun on January 17th, to suddenly only to find 8me racing forward in a place where it usually appeared frozen. An abrupt 24-hour no8ce demanded the evacua8on of all homes and local establishments, including surf schools, mini-markets, and restaurants. This was given by the orders of the Moroccan government ahead of the upcoming 2030 FIFA World Cup; along with neighbouring areas along the coast such as in Tifnit.
A Historical Gem
At the heart of Imsouane lies a harmonious blend of Amazigh and Arab cultures. It is a microcosm that has been bringing everyone together; bleached out surfers, fishermen, visitors and habitants. The hospitality of the people, and the generosity of the swell, are the main reasons why this liOle town has reached global appeal. Its evolu8on took it from a small fishing village to one of the most famous surf des8na8on gems as it hosts the longest African wave. Since the 1970s, and even more so during the COVID-19 pandemic, people from all over the world, especially those embracing van life, have gathered in Imsouane. The village became surfers’ favourite year-round spot drawn for its inclusive atmosphere and fresh seafood. Due to its increased aOen8on through social media its popularity skyrocketed. The Moroccan government plans to replace tradi8onal homes with modern duplexes, poten8ally altering the coastal landscape and energy, a move that may not align with the desires of many tourists.
The world is a village
Deconstruc8ng to reconstruct is sometimes inevitable change. We oWen say "The world is a village" to show how connected we all are. But this village is a world of its own too. There is a harmony that can be found there that is so special. Imsouane and its blue doors, yellow doors, unfinished doors, and dusty doors were always opened to those who came to visit, as well as those who came to stay, including myself. I fell in love with this miniature universe as soon as I opened that door. Many months later, I’m s8ll here, working as a freelance filmmaker. There may be fewer doors now, yet the people are still here and so is the eternal spirit.
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Cultural Heritage & Tourism
Encouring con8nued visits to Imsouane, we emphasise the crucial importance of supporting local communi8es and businesses and convincing governments that travellers come for the charm and chore character of such places.
Welcome to take an in-depth longboarding class with ‘Tamoont’, led by Lahcen Aguerd or savor a delicately cooked tajine at one of the enchan8ng spots by the harbor. Let’s aim for mindful and conscious tourism to give back to places that we visit so that the charm of a place can live on.
By supporting those who uphold tradi8ons through authentic, ar8sanal livelihoods, we contribute to the preserva8on of cultural heritage not only in Morocco but worldwide.
“Douri ya donia” - The earth keeps turning and the waves keep rolling.
The mountains are still hugging Imsouane and we are hugging it back.
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