Empowering Social Welfare: Direct Financial Aid to Benefit 3.5 Million Moroccans

Tuesday 26 December 2023 - 09:10

In a groundbreaking move, the Moroccan government, led by Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, is set to provide direct financial assistance to nearly one million families, positively impacting the lives of approximately 3.5 million Moroccans. Commencing on December 28th, this visionary initiative, unveiled during a recent government council meeting in Rabat, aims to fortify social welfare through the implementation of the Unified Social Registry.

Prime Minister Akhannouch declared, "Starting December 28th, around one million eligible families, encompassing 3.5 million Moroccans, will receive the initial installment of this financial support. Each family will benefit from a minimum aid of 500 dirhams, regardless of its composition."

To ensure equitable aid distribution, priority will be given to families who submitted their applications before December 10th and whose files have been duly processed. For those who applied thereafter, disbursements for December and January can be expected by the end of next month.

Prime Minister Akhannouch emphasized the ongoing accessibility of the application process, urging eligible families to promptly submit their documentation to secure future direct social support. Notably, the dedicated online portal, launched in early December, has already received an overwhelming response, with over 1.9 million applications pouring in.

This year has witnessed the implementation of several transformative social projects, collectively known as the "Social State." Among them is mandatory health insurance, direct social aid for families facing poverty or precarious conditions, and assistance programs facilitating primary residence acquisition. Furthermore, Prime Minister Akhannouch highlighted the significant reforms taking place in the education system, underscoring the pivotal role of educators in achieving desired outcomes.

"We have fostered a conducive environment by cultivating trust with educators, as exemplified by the groundbreaking agreement reached on December 10th, guaranteeing a net monthly salary increase of a minimum of 1,500 dirhams. This historic increment, amounting to an annual cost exceeding 10 billion dirhams to the state finances, is the largest of its kind in the kingdom's history," remarked Prime Minister Akhannouch.

This initiative aligns with the royal directives to implement the Direct Social Assistance program before the close of 2023. It will benefit vulnerable social groups, encompassing school-age children, disabled children, newborns, and families facing precarious situations, particularly those caring for elderly dependents.

With the launch of this ambitious social welfare program, Morocco takes a significant stride towards empowering its citizens, uplifting communities, and forging a brighter future for all.