Morocco declares Amazigh new year as a national holiday

On Wednesday 3rd May 2023, King Mohammed VI has declared the Amazigh New Year as an official holiday in Morocco. This has long been demanded by Amazigh movement in Morocco.

This is a significant step towards recognizing and celebrating the country’s diverse cultural heritage. The Amazigh people are considered as the indigenous peoples of the Maghreb. They have their own language, Tamazight, and a unique cultural identity. Despite being a significant part of Moroccan society, their contributions have often been overlooked and undervalued.

The declaration of the Amazigh New Year as an official holiday is a significant step towards recognizing the Amazigh people’s cultural heritage and promoting cultural diversity in Morocco. The Amazigh New Year, also known as Yennayer, is celebrated on January 12th of every year and marks the first day of the Amazigh calendar, which is based on the cycles of the moon.