On August 14, 2024, Morocco proudly commemorates the 45th anniversary of the return of the Oued Eddahab province to the motherland. This southern region of the Kingdom, once isolated and unknown, has experienced a remarkable transformation since its return under Moroccan sovereignty in 1979.
This significant chapter in Moroccan history symbolizes the conjunction of law, diplomacy, and popular will to restore the Kingdom’s territorial integrity. The recovery of Oued Eddahab represents not only a territorial victory but also a moral and political affirmation of Morocco’s historical continuity.
This reunification demonstrated Morocco’s determination to preserve its national unity in the face of external challenges while respecting international law. This episode continues to inspire future generations, reminding them that defending national sovereignty is a duty.
A burgeoning strategic hub Today, Oued Eddahab has become a driving force of the Kingdom’s economic development and is seen as a future strategic hub, both economically and geopolitically. Since its return, this region has attracted massive investments, transforming a desert into a dynamic economic center and a strategic hub under the state’s guidance.
Since ascending to the throne, King Mohammed VI has paid particular attention to this province, encouraging unprecedented development. Oued Eddahab is now a region where infrastructure investments reach billions, drawing the interest of many nations. More than 25 countries have opened consulates there, thereby recognizing Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara.
Historical significance To grasp the historical significance of this return, it is necessary to go back to the colonial era. Then known as Rio de Oro, Oued Eddahab was part of the « Spanish Sahara. » The Madrid Tripartite Agreement, signed in November 1975 between Spain, Morocco, and Mauritania, allocated the region to the latter. However, this integration was never accepted by the local populations, who continued to assert their allegiance to Morocco.
The situation was further complicated by political instability in Mauritania and the maneuvers of the Polisario, supported by Algeria. In 1979, after a military coup in Mauritania, Morocco, under King Hassan II’s leadership, intervened to secure the region, leading to the recovery of Oued Eddahab on August 14 of the same year.
This date marks not only the return of the province but also a resounding demonstration of Moroccan authority in the face of encirclement attempts. This return is seen as a historical correction, an act of justice for the Sahrawi populations who never severed their ties with the Kingdom despite numerous challenges.
Diplomatic repercussions The return of Oued Eddahab also had diplomatic repercussions. Algeria, in particular, viewed this event as a setback for its regional ambitions. For Morocco, it marked the completion of the reunification of the Sahara, following the Green March and the Madrid Agreement. This return marked the beginning of a new phase in Morocco’s Saharan policy, with the gradual recognition of Moroccan sovereignty by the international community, symbolized by the opening of foreign consulates in the region.
Morocco thus consolidates its sovereignty over the Sahara, affirming its position on the international stage while strengthening ties with its partners worldwide. Oued Eddahab has become a strategic anchor point in Moroccan diplomacy, illustrating the Kingdom’s ability to successfully navigate a complex geopolitical environment.
Oued Eddahab, a symbol of a rising Morocco Today, Oued Eddahab is more than just a southern province; it is the symbol of a rising Morocco, determined to establish itself on the global stage. The region embodies the success of the development policies implemented by the Kingdom, transforming a once-marginalized territory into a center of economic dynamism and cultural influence, positioning itself as a strategic hub in Africa and beyond.
In summary, Oued Eddahab is more than just a province. It embodies resilience and stands as a testament to Morocco’s determination to preserve its territorial integrity while projecting itself into the future as a united and sovereign nation.
August 14 remains a symbolic date, reminding everyone of the importance of the Béiâa, the sacred pact that binds the Moroccan throne and people. Ultimately, the province of Oued Eddahab is not just a region; it is the embodiment of resilience, pride, and unity.
