The National Network of Ancient Medinas (RENAM) is holding its third thematic session on 6 and 7 December in Tiznit, with the participation of representatives from nine member cities of the Network, as well as administrative staff and local civil society actors.

Placed under the theme "the involvement of residents and civil society in the rehabilitation process of the Medinas", this meeting aims to finalise the debate on the Network's Charter after the completion of the legal consultation stage, indicates a statement from the municipality.

Participants in this seminar, which is supported by the German GIZ Morocco cooperation programme and the General Directorate of Local Authorities, will have the opportunity to assess the experience of the Tiznit Municipal Council in terms of community engagement and the involvement of civil society in the local decision-making process through the annual forum of associations and the neighbourhood initiative.

In addition to the presentation of the preliminary draft of the legal expertise regarding the Network's Charter, the programme includes three presentations covering "the ancient Medina in its historical context," led by Ahmed Boumezgou; "the relationship with civil society in the rehabilitation of the ancient Medina," presented by Salima Naji; and "example of a neighbourhood initiative" by Houcine Amri.

Created in May 2012 in Meknes, the RENAM is intended to be a platform for exchange and sharing of experiences on common themes or subjects of concern for ancient Medinas, and aims to strengthen the capacities of elected actors, administrators, and local associative stakeholders.

It also aims to mobilise the support of relevant institutions, develop partnerships with national institutions and cities in the Maghreb and Germany and international organisations, and rehabilitate ancient Medinas with a view to better management methods for urban fabrics.