Morocco Appoints Naima Ben Yahia as Minister of Solidarity, Bringing Extensive Gender Equality Experience

Thursday 24 October 2024 - 09:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco Appoints Naima Ben Yahia as Minister of Solidarity, Bringing Extensive Gender Equality Experience

In a significant government reshuffle announced Wednesday, Naima Ben Yahia has been appointed as Morocco's new Minister of Solidarity and Family, replacing Aawatif Hayar. The appointment, confirmed during a ceremony in Rabat where King Mohammed VI received the new ministers, brings to the position an official with substantial experience in gender equality advocacy and women's affairs.

Ben Yahia's career trajectory shows a consistent focus on advancing gender equality initiatives. In 2006, she served as Minister of Women, Family, and Children's Affairs at the Ministry of Family. Her political career gained momentum in 2011 when she was elected to the House of Representatives representing the Istiqlal Party. Notably, she made history as the inaugural chairperson of the Parliament's Gender Equality Committee.

Her professional experience extends beyond legislative roles. Ben Yahia's administrative background includes work with the Mutual Aid Foundation, and in 2018, she was appointed as Director of the Foundation for the Promotion of Social Works for Employees and Assistants under former Sports Minister Rachid Talbi Alami.

The reshuffle introduced several other key changes to Prime Minister Akhannouch's government. Saad Berrada has taken over as Minister of Education, while Amine Tahraoui assumes the role of Minister of Health. Ahmed Bouari steps in as Minister of Agriculture, Azzedine El Midaoui takes charge of Higher Education, and Abdessamad Kayouh heads the Ministry of Transport and Logistics.

Several ministers retained their positions in the cabinet, including Minister of Foreign Affairs Nasser Bourita and Minister of Interior Abdelouafi Laftit, ensuring continuity in key portfolios while introducing fresh perspectives in others.

The new appointments reflect Morocco's ongoing commitment to governmental renewal while maintaining experience in crucial positions. Ben Yahia's appointment, in particular, suggests a continued focus on social development and family affairs, backed by her extensive background in gender equality initiatives and public service.