Moroccan Sahara: A Land of Light, Opportunity, and Unity

The Moroccan Sahara is a region in motion, embodying a renewed perspective on Morocco’s identity and future, according to Franco-Swiss academic and author Jean-Marie Heydt. Speaking in Rabat during the launch of his latest book, "Le Sahara marocain: Terre de lumière et d’avenir", Heydt emphasized the transformative developments in the region and its cultural richness.

“This book aims to give everyone the opportunity to discover the achievements in the Moroccan Sahara and to highlight the richness of Moroccan culture through the Saharan perspective,” Heydt stated during the event organized by the Ribat Al Fath Association for Sustainable Development. The launch brought together key figures from the cultural, academic, and associative worlds.

Heydt underlined that this cultural wealth strengthens Morocco’s national unity and demonstrates the pivotal role of the southern provinces in the country’s development and its ties with Africa. He encouraged readers to embrace this history and contribute to its continued prominence and recognition.

In the book’s preface, former Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero praises the work as “a magnificent book that captures the beauty and complexity of the Sahara.” Zapatero commends the author for his uniquely insightful historical approach and his vivid portrayal of the region’s cultural diversity, economic potential, and often-overlooked dynamism.

The 352-page book is divided into six chapters: "Repères historiques" (Historical Landmarks), "Les provinces du Sud" (The Southern Provinces), "Un étonnant potentiel" (An Astonishing Potential), "Des infrastructures qui boostent les aménagements et les développements" (Infrastructures Driving Development), "Une dynamique économique portée par des pôles de compétitivité" (An Economic Momentum Powered by Competitive Hubs), and "Sahara marocain, hub atlantique et leader d’une Afrique prospère – De grands projets pour le Maroc de demain" (Moroccan Sahara, Atlantic Hub, and Catalyst for a Prosperous Africa – Major Projects for Morocco’s Future).

Lavishly illustrated, the book offers a fresh perspective on the Sahara and the ongoing development in the region. Heydt describes himself as an “observer” of public policies, uncovering the breadth of achievements that enhance the well-being of local populations.

In tracing the historical origins of the region, the author begins by exploring its millennia-old history before delving into its contemporary transformation under Morocco’s advanced regionalization framework.

Jean-Marie Heydt is a researcher, academic, and international expert in public policy. He has authored several notable works, including “Mohammed VI, La vision d’un Roi: actions et ambitions” (Favre Editions, 2019).