Naïma Elmcherqui, an eternal star celebrated at the Marrakech Festival

The Marrakech International Film Festival honored the memory of the late Naïma Elmcherqui on Tuesday evening, an iconic figure of Moroccan cinema, in a ceremony filled with emotion and recognition for her indelible contribution to the national artistic landscape. The Palais des Congrès in Marrakech was the setting for a tribute paid to one of the great figures of Moroccan cinema, Naïma Elmcherqui, who passed away last October. This event, organized as part of the 21st edition of the Marrakech International Film Festival, brought together a host of personalities from the world of cinema, art, and media, as well as the loved ones of the deceased.

Under the dimmed lights and before an audience of moved guests, Yasmine Khayat, Naïma Elmcherqui's daughter, took the floor to express her family's gratitude to His Majesty King Mohammed VI and His Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid for their support and for the initiative of this vibrant tribute. "My mother was an exceptional woman, driven by an infinite passion for cinema and unwavering humanitarian commitments," she declared, before receiving the Golden Star from the hands of actress Fatima Khair.

The testimonies, delivered by major figures of Moroccan cinema such as Mohamed Abderrahman Tazi, Fatima Khair, and Mohamed Mouftakir, retraced the brilliant career of Naïma Elmcherqui while praising her generosity, humility, and devotion to social causes. "Her artistic and human legacy continues to resonate in our hearts and in the soul of our culture," affirmed Mohamed Mouftakir, highlighting the profound impact of her contributions.

As a crowning touch to this tribute, the film "The Autumn of Apple Trees" by Mohamed Mouftakir was screened, recalling the remarkable talent of Naïma Elmcherqui. This role had earned her the Best Actress Award at the Malmö Arab Film Festival, testifying once again to her immeasurable talent.
An exceptional journey and multiple commitments
Born in Casablanca, Naïma Elmcherqui quickly established herself as an essential figure in Moroccan theater, collaborating with legendary troupes such as Maâmoura or Bassatine, before expanding her footprint to cinema and television. She left her mark in productions such as "Blood Wedding," "Lalla Houby," or "Kilikis, the Town of Owls."

In addition to her acting career, Naïma Elmcherqui enriched Moroccan culture through her role as presenter of the educational program "Alif Lam," dedicated to the fight against illiteracy, and through her commitment as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. Her dedication to social causes, particularly in favor of women and children, made her a deeply respected and loved personality.

For the Festival organizers, Naïma Elmcherqui was not only an accomplished actress but also a tireless ambassador of Moroccan culture and a faithful friend of the event. Her contribution to the Board of Directors of the Festival Foundation testifies to her commitment to promoting cinematic art beyond the screens.

Her absence leaves a huge void in the Moroccan cultural landscape, but her mark will remain alive in every scene she graced with her elegance and talent, in every humanitarian gesture she carried with dignity, and in the collective memory of her audience and peers.