From 20 to 24 January, the Assa Zaouia is hosting its annual moussem, which is part of the region's festivities commemorating Aïd Al Mawlid Annabawi.

"Assa between local identity and openness to cultures," such is the theme of this highly anticipated moussem in the southern provinces of the Kingdom. Over the years and editions, it has become an unmissable annual event for the tribes of the Moroccan Sahara who are keen to be present, and it contributes to the economic and social development of the city and to the promotion of the historical and natural potential of the Assa palace.

Initiated by the Assa Zaouia Association under the High Patronage of HM the King in collaboration with the Agency for the Promotion and Economic and Social Development of the Southern Provinces of the Kingdom and with the participation of elected officials and civil society actors, this edition provides for a varied programme. Thus, the official opening ceremony will be held next Monday with a caravan led by the children of this city dressed in darâa and melhfa, which will transport spectators into the depths of the history of the Sahrawi Moroccan. This caravan will be followed by a sacred music evening that will be given at the Assa Zaouia square by the Egyptian troupe Iben Arabi.

The moussem also aspires to revalue and preserve the art of madih and samaâ, which is deeply rooted in Moroccan culture and local customs, through the organisation throughout this edition of several ceremonies hosted by national troupes that will treat the public of Assa and its visitors to their works and repertoires. Added to this are dhikr vigils.

This edition also provides for the holding of a conference on the theme "The Assa moussem as a heritage of humanity," which will be given by a host of university professors and researchers, as well as the presentation of a book that traces the history of this city, in addition to local craft stands intended to make known the talents of the artisans of this region.

A sporting event will be organised on the sidelines of the moussem, through the 7th edition of the late Rah Fdaili road race, the route of which is traced, according to the organisers, in such a way as to allow participants to discover the historical monuments of the city, its ksours, and its beautiful natural landscapes.