How a Vietnamese Village Ended Up in Morocco and Thrived

Imagine Vietnam sliding into Morocco’s DMs back in the 1970s and saying, “Let’s collab.”

Fez – Let’s start with the story. The Vietnamese community in Morocco, particularly in Kenitra, traces its origins to the early 1970s, following the First Indochina War (1946-1954).

During this conflict, numerous Moroccan soldiers conscripted into the French colonial army, were deployed to Vietnam.

Some of these soldiers chose to remain in Vietnam after the war, integrating into local communities and marrying Vietnamese women.

In 1972, the King of Morocco extended an invitation for these soldiers and their families to return to Morocco.

Accepting this offer, they resettled in various regions, with a significant number establishing themselves in Kenitra.

The Moroccan government allocated land to these families, facilitating their integration into Moroccan society.

In Kenitra, the Vietnamese-Moroccan community has made concerted efforts to preserve and promote Vietnamese culture.

A notable symbol of this cultural heritage is the Vietnam Gate, inaugurated in Douar Sfari Village.

This monument, representing a traditional Vietnamese village gate, was constructed with materials imported from Vietnam and adorned with dragon decorations.

The gate stands as a testament to the enduring friendship between Morocco and Vietnam, with inscriptions expressing gratitude to both nations.

Despite the passage of time and the influence of Moroccan culture, descendants of these Vietnamese-Moroccan families strive to maintain their Vietnamese roots.

While Arabic and French are predominantly spoken, many retain a basic understanding of Vietnamese.

Cultural practices, traditions, and the industrious spirit characteristic of Vietnamese heritage continue to be imparted to younger generations, ensuring the longevity of their unique cultural identity.

The Vietnamese community in Kenitra is relatively small, with the original settlers numbering around seven families.

Over the years, some families have dispersed to other cities such as Casablanca and Marrakech.

Despite their small numbers, the community has garnered attention for its unique cultural blend and the symbolic Vietnam Gate, which attracts visitors and stands as a monument to the historical ties between Morocco and Vietnam.

The Vietnamese community in Kenitra represents a unique cultural fusion resulting from historical events that brought together Moroccan soldiers and Vietnamese citizens.

Through monuments like the Vietnam Gate and the preservation of cultural practices, this community continues to honor its dual heritage, symbolizing the enduring friendship between Morocco and Vietnam.

And there you have it, the tale of a village where East meets West, and cultures blend like the perfect cup of Moroccan mint tea (or a bowl of Vietnamese noodle soup).

If you’re ever in Morocco, don’t forget to visit this slice of Vietnam — it’s like traveling without needing a passport. It is straight-up iconic.