Judaism in Africa Seen from Morocco – Identities and Heritage of Morocco's African Depth

The Konrad Adenauer Foundation, Morocco-Mauritania, the Center for Studies and Research on Hebrew Culture and Law in Morocco, the Morocco House for Peace, and the Essaouira Mogador Association jointly organized an international scientific meeting under the theme: "Judaism in Africa Seen from Morocco – Identities and Heritage of Morocco's African Depth" at Bayt Al Dakira in Essaouira from February 9 to 10.

This event focused on interreligious dialogue, particularly coexistence and intercultural exchange. Morocco was placed at the heart of the discussions as a positive example of successful coexistence between different cultures and religions, notably Judaism and Islam. Indeed, Essaouira, the city and venue of the scientific meeting, aptly reflects these intercultural and interreligious links with its culturally rich and diverse history. Ghita Rabouli, Director of Bayt Al Dakira, highlighted the city’s particular cosmopolitan attraction, which has drawn visitors from almost all nations to explore Bayt Al Dakira.

To better understand the historical, philosophical, and contemporary dimensions and contexts of Judaism in Africa, several experts gave presentations throughout the two days of the scientific conference.

André Azoulay, Advisor to His Majesty King Mohammed VI, discussed the historical link between Essaouira and Cape Verde, which dates back to the 17th century through Jewish migration from Essaouira to the island state, contributing for centuries to an economic and cultural exchange between Morocco and Sub-Saharan Africa. Beyond this aspect of migration, Mr. André Azoulay also emphasized the soft power or soft diplomacy that Morocco benefits from due to its values of mediation with the outside world. Morocco is thus internationally recognized as a meeting place for diverse cultures and religions, with the potential to promote peaceful coexistence. This is also reflected in current events, particularly as Bayt Al Dakira in Essaouira has become a meeting place for Israelis and Palestinians.

Miloud Loukili, Professor at Mohammed V University in Rabat, addressed Morocco’s intra-African links as well as its position in the international space, referencing a quote from former King Hassan II of Morocco: "Morocco is a tree whose roots are in Africa and whose leaves breathe in Europe." Drawing on this quote, Loukili spoke about the country’s multidimensional integration in the international context, while emphasizing the pride of African identity. Abdellah Ouzitane, President and Founder of the Center for Studies and Research on Hebrew Law in Morocco, added to these analyses by observing Africa’s mobilizing strength and calling for the continuation of the path of peace.

Regarding African identities, artist Ras Daveed made another significant contribution to the scientific conference by calling for the deconstruction of colonial structures and modes of thought. According to him, Africa is both a hope and a future after the struggle against colonization. André Meunié, Professor at the University of Bordeaux, contributed to this discussion by proposing the idea of a Franco-Moroccan dual master's degree in development economics between the universities of Bordeaux and Rabat, which is expected to graduate its first students in the coming years.

In his closing speech at the conference, Steven Höfner, Resident Representative of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, spoke about a historic meeting that brought new insights and perspectives on the theme of Judaism in Africa and also emphasized the important role of the youth of Essaouira, who will carry forward, especially in the future, the values of coexistence and intercultural dialogue.