Fez — A project by UNESCO is channeling $336,480 (MAD 3.1 million) into eastern Morocco with an unusual goal. It wants local musical heritage to generate jobs as well as survive.
UNESCO lists the initiative under its Intangible Cultural Heritage program for Morocco. The funding comes through the “Morocco Funds-in-Trust,” rather than directly from UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage Fund.
The project has a budget of $336,480 and focuses specifically on Morocco’s Oriental region.
The program aims to do more than organize concerts or preserve music in archives. It seeks to strengthen the skills of those working to safeguard intangible cultural heritage while supporting young people developing projects in the music sector.
The initiative is ultimately expected to create new employment and income-generating opportunities linked to the cultural sector.
Turning heritage into an industry
Eastern Morocco already has a strong musical identity.
Reggada is deeply rooted in Morocco’s Oriental region, and its enduring popularity was on display this month when a local troupe opened the inaugural Saïdia Music Festival.
The country’s official portal reported that the festival kicked off at Saïdia Marina in early August, with the stated goals of boosting tourism and showcasing the Oriental region. Organizers also highlighted the local performance as a reflection of the area’s cultural heritage.
This reflects the broader cultural and economic impact the UNESCO initiative aims to foster.
Traditional music can preserve cultural heritage while also generating employment for performers, producers, technicians, event organizers, managers, and other professionals across the music industry.
UNESCO’s approach puts young creators at the heart of this process, linking the preservation of cultural heritage with contemporary music projects and new economic opportunities.
Morocco expands its heritage push
The project comes as Morocco continues to expand its engagement with UNESCO on safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.
UNESCO lists several Moroccan nominations under consideration in 2026, including traditions related to the oud, plant-fiber crafts, henna, and basketry knowledge and skills.
Morocco’s musical heritage already has a strong presence on UNESCO’s international list, with Gnawa recognized in 2019 and Malhun added in 2023.
The eastern Morocco initiative takes a broader approach, looking beyond cultural preservation alone to assess its impact.
