According to new figures shared after a government commission meeting held Thursday in Rabat, the total amount of financial support allocated for reconstruction has exceeded MAD 4.2 billion ($425 million), while emergency aid payments, set at MAD 2,500 per household per month, have reached over MAD 2.4 billion ($243 million).

These numbers reflect the scale of the national response launched in the wake of last year’s disaster.

Chaired by Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch, the meeting brought together members of the Interministerial Commission overseeing the program. 

In addition to the thousands of homes now restored, the commission noted the near-complete dismantling of temporary shelters. From a peak of 129,000 tents, only 47 remain in place, with plans for full removal by September. 

Local task forces have also found on-the-ground solutions for 4,895 houses in isolated mountainous areas.

At the start of the meeting, Akhannouch acknowledged the pace of the work and called on all departments and agencies to intensify their efforts to complete the remaining projects with urgency and efficiency.

The commission also reviewed progress on essential infrastructure. Work on four sections of the RN7 highway currently stands between 25% and 65% completion. Meanwhile, construction crews have launched projects covering 165 kilometers of roads and 29 engineering structures, backed by a budget of MAD 920 million ($93 million).

In the education sector, 269 schools have completed reconstruction or repair. In healthcare, rehabilitation has finished in 70 health centers. Authorities expect to finalize work on 35 additional centers by August 2025, and 14 more by October of the same year.

In rural areas, the government has distributed livestock and barley to farmers, while also restoring agricultural infrastructure. Repair works on 43 damaged hydrological stations have concluded, and water networks have been reconnected in multiple douars.

Tourism, another pillar of local life, has seen 229 establishments benefit from the first round of financial aid, totaling MAD 61.1 million ($6.2 million). A second round brought support to 95 more businesses, with an additional MAD 30 million ($3 million) disbursed.

The meeting also addressed support for small merchants. A total of 1,600 shop owners who lost their places of business in the earthquake have received direct assistance.

Despite the commendable scale of reconstruction and financial support, these efforts still fall short of addressing the immense and lasting consequences left by the Al Haouz earthquake. 

The sheer number of affected families and the extent of damage to infrastructure, homes, and livelihoods demand more sustained and comprehensive intervention. Many communities, especially in remote and mountainous areas, continue to face significant challenges in access to basic services and economic recovery. 

While crucial, emergency aid offers only temporary relief, and the pace of rebuilding essential public facilities such as schools and health centers remains slow, given the urgent needs. 

Moreover, the allocation of funds, though substantial on paper, struggles to keep up with inflation, rising construction costs, and the complex logistics of rebuilding in difficult terrain. 

The long-term social and economic scars require a strategy that goes beyond immediate reconstruction and focuses instead on resilience, sustainable development, and support for local economies to truly restore stability and hope for the people of Al Haouz.

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The Azzurre are aiming to reach the knockout stage for the first time since 2013, having crashed out in the group stage in the past two editions. They sit second in Group B with four points, following a narrow win over Belgium and a late draw with Portugal, but they’ll need at least a point to be progress.

 

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Cristiana Girelli’s stunning strike had looked to seal all three points against Portugal, only for an 89th-minute equaliser to delay Italy’s passage to the next round. They remain three points ahead of third-placed Portugal, and their superior goal difference means only a heavy defeat – coupled with a big Portuguese win over Belgium – would knock them out.

Spain, meanwhile, have already qualified for the quarter-finals and only need a draw to finish top of the group. Montse Tomé’s side have been in devastating form, scoring 11 goals in two matches – 5-0 against Portugal and 6-2 against Belgium.

Alexia Putellas stole the show last time out, becoming the first player to score twice and provide two assists in a single Women’s Euro match. La Roja’s attacking trio of Putellas, Esther González, and Claudia Pina have been in high-flying form.

However, Spain could rotate. With a knockout tie looming, Tomé may rest players on yellow cards, including defenders Laia Aleixandri and Ona Batlle. Goalkeeper Cata Coll is also in contention to return after missing the first two matches due to illness.

Italy boss Andrea Soncin is expected to stick with the side that started the opening two games. Roma’s Elena Linari should anchor a back three alongside Juventus duo Cecilia Salvai and Martina Lenzini. Girelli, who has four goals in her last five outings, will once again lead the line.

But Soncin may be tempted to go more defensive, given Spain’s firepower. He’ll also have one eye on suspensions – four Italian players, including Lenzini and Manuela Giugliano, are a booking away from missing the quarter-finals.

Score Prediction:

The last time these two met, Italy stunned Spain 3-2 in the Nations League last December. Repeating that feat now, though, will require a monumental performance.

MWN says Italy 2-2 Spain

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Kick-off is at 8 p.m. Moroccan time (GMT+1), and fans can catch the action live on beIN Sports, CANAL+, New WorldTV, SuperSport, Azam Media, SABC, Ziggo, BAND, SportTV, and Arena Sport.

The defending champions made a statement in their opening match, beating Ghana 2–0 thanks to goals from Linda Motlhalo and Jermaine Seoposenwe. That win extended South Africa’s unbeaten run in 2024 to eight straight victories, with six clean sheets and 17 goals scored along the way. Another three points in this game would guarantee safe passage to the last eight.

For Tanzania, the margin for error is now razor thin. A narrow 1–0 defeat to Mali in their opener has left them needing at least a point to keep hopes alive of sneaking through as one of the best third-placed sides. But facing Banyana Banyana – a side brimming with experience and pedigree – is no easy task.

Twiga Stars showed promise in qualifying, but have looked short of ideas against top-tier opposition. They were humbled 3–0 by Morocco in a pre-tournament friendly and struggled to threaten Mali.

Score Prediction:
South Africa are simply a level above. Desiree Ellis’ team are organised, clinical, and battle-hardened. Barring a miracle, this should be a routine win.

MWN says South Africa 3–0 Tanzania

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Mouad took his own life shortly after receiving a suspension notice. In addition to his suspension, his salary was also halted, leaving him in a deeply vulnerable state, especially since he is the sole provider for his family.

Converging reports said the suicide followed a temporary suspension based on complaints filed by some partners who allegedly accused him of physically assaulting students.

The teacher received the suspension letter on July 1, marking the end of the academic year, with reports suggesting that he was also denied access to the school to sign the year-end clearance form on July 5.

Beyond the challenges he endured professionally, teachers and people who knew Mouad said the young teacher had been struggling emotionally since the loss of his father earlier in the academic year.

Dozens of teachers, who took to the street on Thursday in a sit-in in front of the educational directorate in Moulay Rachid in Casablanca, said Mouad received no support from the educational administration or the school where he worked. Defending the teacher, they called for an impartial investigation – emphasizing that Mouad should have been referred to a medical committee instead of being met with punitive action.

His mother, who also attended the protest, said her son was not mentally ill. She detailed that the school’s principal called him and asked him to come to the school, despite the fact that he had made sure to submit all necessary papers and grades upon his departure.

“He was surprised to receive a suspension notice after the end of the academic season,” the mother said, noting that he had been assigned to teach at three different schools within the same academic year, a situation that exceeded his capacity.

A case of ‘malicious targeting’?

The National Union of Moroccan Youth in Education released a statement, conveying both condolences and outrage on July 9, emphasizing that it had followed the tragic incident with deep sorrow.

The union emphasized that Mouad’s case has “shaken both national and international public opinion,” noting that the teacher endured severe hardship due to work-related stress, chaotic management, and “malicious targeting.”

The statement holds the directorate responsible for Mouad’s suicide, noting that his suspension took place without taking into account his psychological state and “despite [the fact] that he was a trainee teacher in his first year of service and the sole provider for his daily.”

Some of his colleagues told the media that the suspension followed some “mistakes,” with some noting that he was allegedly involved in violence against some students.

During the protests, the speakers emphasized that the directorate should have taken more concrete measures like dialogue and taking into account his mental health instead of his suspension and salary halt.

The union extended deepest condolences and full solidarity with Mouad’s family, condemning all “forms of administrative abuse and arbitrary actions that the deceased is subjected to.”

It also called for a thorough and impartial investigation into the circumstances of the case,  insisting on the urgent need to review disciplinary measures and the ways they are implemented.

Additionally, the union appealed for all relevant authorities to take measures to prevent such tragedies in the future, calling upon all education workers, especially young educators, to strengthen their unity in defense of teachers’ dignity to continue the fight against violations and abuses.

Converging reports said the unions emphasized the teacher’s account and side of the story was never heard, noting that a regional committee visited the school where he worked in June, but only listened to the school principal and a few parents. The unions emphasized that the committee took a one-sided narrative into account, without summoning their colleagues.

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In a video circulating on social media, the teacher recounts being asked to falsify students’ grades for individuals who had not submitted their work. 

“I have text messages where he asks me to forge, because indeed this is forgery, by entering marks for students that I do not have and who have not submitted their papers,” she said.

She explained that the request was first made over a phone call. “The director called me and tried to convince me at first, but I did not agree and totally rejected his request,” she said. 

“He ended the call by saying that I should come to the school and enter the marks, and added, ‘I will surprise you and do something you will not like.’ Frankly, when he said that, I was terrified and he really scared me.”

The teacher also described feeling isolated and unsafe in her workplace. 

According to her, the school is now devoid of students and staff, forcing her to take unusual measures to protect herself. 

“What made it worse is that the school is now empty, no teachers, no students. I am obliged to come accompanied by a judicial officer to document my presence,” she said.

“Is it rational that I, as a teacher, come here every day and sit here just so the director does not do something that could harm me?” she asked. “In addition, he has previously denied receiving documents that prove my absence.”

In the same video, the teacher criticized what she described as a lack of institutional safeguards for educators in Morocco. “We, as teachers, are not protected. The law must change this,” she said. “There must be real accountability and protection for us.”

The teacher’s account has sparked outrage online, with many users calling for an investigation into the conduct of the school’s administration. 

At the time of writing, education authorities have not released an official statement on the matter.

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Maamma, who was under contract at Montpellier until 2027, makes the switch after registering one goal and one assist in 12 Ligue 1 appearances last season. The move, announced on Friday, sees him join the Hornets in the Championship—England’s second tier.

Pen to paper pic.twitter.com/7CzWChHARB

— Watford Football Club (@WatfordFC) July 11, 2025

“Watford has completed the signing of Montpellier forward Othmane Maamma,” the club stated. “The striker arrives at Vicarage Road for an undisclosed fee, with the young Moroccan international penning a four-year deal.”

But not everyone in Watford’s fanbase was thrilled by the news. Some supporters took to social media to question the club’s ambition and the player’s readiness:

“Hardly inspiring for a one-season punt at getting into play-offs / Premier League. He will end up on loan. Not championship-ready, won’t hit the ground. But they’ll tell you it’s another ‘signing.’ Yep. Won’t tell you he won’t contribute. Better than we already have?”

Others were more direct – if not entirely diplomatic:

“Hello Watford Fans. Othmane Maamma had a very poor lifestyle but I wish him the best in your club. Qualities: loves chichas, clubbing and tacos…”

“Talented but not professional at all… Good luck ”

“Don’t celebrate too early, Watford fans. I hope you’ve got plenty of kebab shops, shisha bars and good nightclubs, because you’ll see him there more often than on the pitch.”

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The two will meet at Stade Municipal de Berkane at 8 p.m. Moroccan time.

If you cannot watch the match in Morocco, several broadcasters are airing the game, depending on your location.

If you are in Ghana, you can watch the match on Gabon Premiere, Canal+, or Super Sport. You can also watch it via beIN Sport or on Canal+ if you are in Mali.

Ghana is seeking redemption after a hard kickoff, where they lost their opener 0-2 against South Africa.

“Against Mali, they face a team that is efficient even when they do not have more ball possession. With the experience of the forward quartet, China-based Saratou Traore, who scored the lone goal against Tanzania on Monday,” the Confederation of African Football (CAF) said.

Today’s match will be the fifth time the two squads have met at the WAFCON.

Ghana won three out of five of the matches in 2022, in 2006, and in 2016. 

The game, however, is expected to be fierce as Mali eyes an early quarters slot, and Ghana is determined to bounce back after a tough start and clinch a redemption during the competition.

“Winning against Ghana will also have a dimension to improve this record, but more importantly, booking a place in the quarterfinals,” CAF concluded.

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CAF did not specify the nature of the alleged breach but confirmed that they “will not make any further comment on the matter until the procedure has been completed,” the statement read. 

The announcement follows a series of incidents that raised questions about Algeria’s conduct during the tournament. While the team remains active in the competition, its presence has stood out for reasons beyond football.

Since the start of WAFCON on July 5, Algerian coverage of the tournament has taken a noticeable turn. 

Despite Morocco hosting the competition, Algerian state television and official channels have consistently avoided any mention of the host country. Broadcasters cropped footage and removed visual references to Morocco during press conferences and public appearances.

One incident in particular drew attention: during a press conference, Royal Air Maroc (RAM), an official tournament sponsor, disappeared from the sponsor wall behind Algeria’s coach. 

In its place, the image of a different sponsor, TotalEnergies, appeared to have been photoshopped in. Observers have described this switch as deliberate and politically motivated.

The situation has sparked criticism online, with viewers accusing Algerian authorities of letting political disputes interfere with a continental sporting event meant to unite rather than divide.

As the tournament progresses, Algeria’s matches continue, but under growing scrutiny.

For now, the matter remains under review, with no timeline given for the conclusion of the case.

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The 27-year-old, who returned to Naples after a fruitless loan spell at Espanyol, has attracted strong interest from Greek side PAOK Thessaloniki. According to multiple reports, Cheddira has reached a personal agreement with the club, who are now negotiating terms with Napoli.

The proposed deal includes a two-year contract with an option for a third season and a reported salary of €1.5 million per year.

However, talks have hit a snag. While PAOK are keen to finalise the transfer quickly, Cheddira is said to prefer staying in Italy — a factor that could complicate negotiations.

Serie A side Cagliari have also entered the race. Their manager, Fabio Pisacane, is reportedly pushing to strengthen his attack and has identified Cheddira as a top target. According to AreaNapoli, Cagliari have submitted an official offer to buy out the remainder of the Moroccan’s contract, which runs until 2028.

Cheddira’s form has dipped in recent seasons, contributing just one goal and one assist in 23 appearances for Espanyol across La Liga and the Copa del Rey – mostly coming off the bench.

That slump has also seen him fall out of favour with Morocco’s national team, despite being part of the 2022 World Cup squad in Qatar.

A decision on his future is expected in the coming days.

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Their destination: the Azilal provincial headquarters and, beyond it, the Beni Mellal-Khenifra regional capital. Their message: a plea for dignity, development, and an end to years of what they call systematic marginalization.

Known as “The Happy Valley” for its stunning landscapes and serene atmosphere, Aït Bouguemez is home to 27 villages scattered across the mountains of Azilal province. But, behind the postcard scenery lies a population growing increasingly frustrated with poor infrastructure, inadequate public services, and stalled development. For weeks, tensions have been rising as residents voiced their grievances through formal channels, but to little avail.

On Wednesday, they decided to escalate their action. In an act of collective defiance and civic responsibility, more than a thousand men, joined by the president of the Tabant rural commune, Khaled Tougougun, set out on foot toward Azilal, covering roughly 77 kilometers. The marchers carried no weapons, displayed no aggression, and followed all the principles of a peaceful protest.

Yet, even their peaceful determination was met with obstacles. As they approached the Tizi N’Terghist mountain pass, security forces blocked the road with vehicles, forcing the marchers to divert to an alternative route. Despite this, they continued, embodying what one observer called “the highest level of awareness and discipline.”

At the heart of their demands is the need for a resident doctor. For years, the valley’s health center has operated without a full-time physician, leaving residents dependent on distant hospitals for even the most basic care. “There are only nurses,” said Hassan Laakoun, a local resident who was onsite at the protest, describing how medical emergencies often turn into tragedies because of the delays in reaching proper treatment.

Equally urgent is the state of the roads. Regional road 302, which connects Aït Bouguemez to Tizi N’Terghist, and road 317 to Aït Abbas are both in disrepair, becoming nearly impassable during winter snowfalls. Residents say the lack of maintenance isolates entire villages for weeks at a time.

Connectivity is another critical issue. Many areas still have no reliable phone or internet service, making it nearly impossible for families to communicate with the outside world or access information and services. Even during a phone call with a resident, the connection repeatedly dropped, underscoring the scale of the problem.

But their demands go beyond just healthcare and infrastructure. The villagers are asking for a community sports field to give local youth a safe space to play and socialize, a training center for mountain-related trades aligned with the region’s geography and economic potential, and a school to reduce the alarming dropout rates among children. They also call for small dams to mitigate the impact of seasonal floods, which regularly damage homes and farmland.

Lastly, the residents want an end to housing permit restrictions caused by the absence of an urban development plan. This bureaucratic deadlock has left many families unable to build or improve homes in their own villages, trapping them in inadequate housing.

Wednesday’s march was as much a cry for help, as it was a testament to the resilience and civic maturity of Aït Bouguemez’s people. They walked in gratitude and trust, believing in the promises made by the authorities and hopeful their voices would finally be heard.

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