Moroccan Minister Calls for Adherence to Mosque Building Regulations

Moroccan Minister of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs Ahmed Toufiq recently highlighted the need for strict adherence to regulatory frameworks governing mosque construction and management. This statement was made during the 18th Mosque Day, where he underscored the significance of preserving the architectural and cultural heritage of mosques in Morocco. The minister expressed appreciation for the efforts of philanthropists who contribute to the construction, equipment, and maintenance of these places of worship.

The event also featured a presentation by the General Secretary of the Higher Council of Ulemas, Yezid Razi, who discussed the importance of mosques as vibrant centers of worship, Quranic recitation, and education. Razi praised the efforts invested in building, equipping, and maintaining mosques, reflecting the care and attention they receive from both the authorities and the general public.

As part of the celebrations, documentary presentations showcased the role of mosques in Moroccan society, highlighting their religious, educational, and social significance. The event also included the presentation of the annual report on mosque maintenance for 2026 and the recognition of philanthropists and traditional craftsmen who contribute to the beauty and authenticity of these sites.

Minister Toufiq also announced plans to expand the scope of the mosque maintenance program, aiming to cover 30,000 mosques by 2027, a significant increase from the 636 mosques targeted in 2026. This initiative was presented during a meeting at the House of Representatives, where the minister outlined the ministry's budget project for 2027.

In a related development, the city of Rabat recently hosted the third edition of the Mohammed VI Foundation's competition for African scholars in the field of Hadith. The competition, which took place over three days, brought together 123 participants from 48 African countries who competed in three categories, demonstrating their knowledge and understanding of Islamic sciences.

The event concluded with the announcement of the winners in each category, highlighting the rich talent and expertise present across the African continent. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to promoting knowledge, education, and cultural exchange between Morocco and other African nations.

Separately, Minister of Economy and Finance Fouzi Lekjaa emphasized the government's commitment to promoting fair competition and combating monopolies. During a session at the House of Representatives, Lekjaa highlighted the need to eliminate the current system of licenses and open up various sectors to foster a more competitive and equitable market environment.

Key points

• Minister Ahmed Toufiq calls for adherence to mosque building regulations to preserve Morocco's architectural and cultural heritage.