Positions Open with Morocco Chapter 1. Chapter President for MoroccoApply Now 2. General Secretary for MoroccoApply Now 3. Information & Communications Lead for MoroccoApply Now Pre‑Qualification Checklist Benefits & Perks Responsibilities

Country Representative signed at: 4th Collective Consultation on TSG, Sheraton Grand Istanbul Atasehir, Istanbul, Turkey (August 13–14, 2018)

About the Morocco Chapter Morocco, bridging North Africa and Europe, hosts a rich tapestry of traditional sports deeply rooted in desert nomadic life and Berber heritage. Its diverse geography—from Sahara dunes to the Atlas Mountains—shapes cultural expressions and preserved customs. The Morocco Chapter aims to champion preservation of indigenous sports such as sand hockey, Akseltag, Tbourida, Ahidus, Dinifri, and equestrian performance Mata, reinforcing national pride and global cultural exchange. Geographic & Cultural Importance Morocco’s varied terrain—from Atlantic coastlines to high-altitude plateaus—fosters unique sports traditions. In Saharan plains, sand hockey Morocco thrives; in Atlas regions, heart-pumping games such as Dinifri and Ahidus celebrate community. Coastal and agricultural areas nurture horse-human traditions—especially Tbourida performances. These forms are integral to Morocco’s cultural identity and significantly contributed to forming the ICTSG as a global network for traditional sports champions. Featured Traditional Sports

Sand Hockey (Akseltag / Mokhacha): Nomadic stick-and-ball game played on desert sands using camel-hair balls and wooden sticks   Akseltag: Sahrawi field hockey—seven-player teams, camel-hide ball—bringing nomads and visitors together  Dinifri: Berber team game testing strength and agility in an ordered chaos   Ahidus: Traditional Berber collective circle dance with rhythmic drums and poetry   Tbourida / Fantasia / Mata: Equestrian cavalry performance showcasing unity, heritage, and martial arts, recognized by UNESCO

Weather & Climate Conditions Morocco’s climate ranges from coastal Mediterranean zones to Saharan desert extremes. Seasonal sports align with local weather cycles—for example, sand hockey peaks in drier winter months and Tbourida events align with spring traditions when weather is temperate and ideal for outdoor equestrian displays. Organizers adapt to regional climates, ensuring traditional games remain safe, sustainable, and deeply connected to their landscape.

Alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) The Morocco Chapter actively supports SDG 3 (Good Health and Well‑being) by promoting physical activity in desert and rural communities. It advances SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by safeguarding cultural heritage like Tbourida via UNESCO recognition. By reviving sand hockey and Berber festivals, the chapter fosters SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) through community cohesion and intercultural dialogue. Learn more on the SDG website: Goal 3, Goal 11, Goal 16.

Historical Role in ICTSG Formation During the 2018 UNESCO‑hosted consultation, Morocco’s delegation under the Ministry of Sports endorsed the foundation of ICTSG. As a crossroads between Africa and Europe, Morocco’s inclusion highlighted the importance of broadcastable, heritage‑sourced sports. Their commitment to preserving sand hockey and Tbourida provided a model for integrating living traditions into global sports planning, making Morocco a keystone in the efforts to safeguard traditional sports for future generations.

Other Indigenous Games

Tnine Ourika & Karra: Stone‑throwing and low‑wall ball games preserving rural childhood play culture  Ghaba & Nayrouba: Board‑stone strategy games passed through generations

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About ICTSG: The International Council of Traditional Sports and Games (ICTSG) is dedicated to preserving, promoting, and revitalizing traditional sports and games as powerful tools for education, peace, and sustainable development.

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