Sports Bring Hope and Health to Young Inmates in Morocco
Meknes, Morocco – In a heartwarming display of community and rehabilitation, 188 young inmates at the Toulal 2 prison in Meknes participated in a day of sports and camaraderie. The event, organized by the Royal Moroccan Federation of Sports for All (FRMSP) in partnership with the prison, was part of a larger national initiative promoting the benefits of sports for a healthy society.
The day’s events, held in honor of the 25th anniversary of King Mohammed VI’s accession to the throne, included a variety of individual and team sports, traditional games, and physical activities. The atmosphere was electric with friendly competition and a shared sense of accomplishment.
Mr. Aziz El Akhal, Director of Toulal 2 prison, highlighted the importance of the event, stating that “sports activities provide a valuable opportunity to foster a spirit of healthy competition and communication among the inmates, creating a recreational and enthusiastic atmosphere.” He emphasized that such initiatives are crucial to the rehabilitation process, aligning with the strategic plan of the General Delegation for Prison Administration and Reintegration (DGAPR).
The DGAPR, committed to providing opportunities for inmates’ well-being and successful reintegration into society, has implemented a range of programs, including literacy initiatives, non-formal education, and vocational training. Mr. Youssef El-Shaarawy, in charge of cultural, artistic, and sports activities at Toulal 2, shared that 22 inmates successfully obtained their baccalaureate degrees this year, a testament to the program’s effectiveness. Inmates also benefit from vocational training in fields like plumbing, construction, electricity, painting, and IT, equipping them with valuable skills for their future.
This focus on rehabilitation through sports aligns with a growing global movement recognizing the power of physical activity within the justice system. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) emphasizes the role of sports in promoting physical and mental health, reducing recidivism, and fostering social inclusion for incarcerated individuals.
Mr. Aziz Bisbis, a member of the FRMSP board, reiterated the organization’s commitment to making physical activity accessible to all citizens, recognizing the profound impact of sports on individual and societal well-being. This commitment is enshrined in the Moroccan constitution, which recognizes the practice of sports as a fundamental human right.
The national sports caravan, organized by FRMSP in celebration of King Mohammed VI’s reign, has already reached ten out of twelve regions in Morocco, spreading the message that “mass sport is a prerequisite for building a healthy society.”
The event at Toulal 2 prison concluded with the FRMSP presenting tokens of appreciation to the prison director, staff, and officials, acknowledging their invaluable contribution to the success of this impactful initiative. This day served as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of sports, offering hope, health, and a path towards a brighter future for these young individuals.
