Princess Lalla Asmaa Champions Hearing Impairment Awareness in Morocco
On June 16, 2026, Princess Lalla Asmaa, the president of the Lalla Asmaa Foundation, presided over the inaugural "Patient Day" dedicated to individuals suffering from hearing impairment in Rabat. This significant event marks the culmination of two decades of commitment by the Foundation towards supporting deaf and hard-of-hearing children and their families. The day was highlighted by the launch of the "Hearing Aid for All" program, which aligns with the national initiative "NASMAA" and the international campaign "United: We Hear Better." Through this initiative, the Moroccan government aims to enhance the accessibility of hearing aids for underprivileged citizens, ensuring that no child is left without the necessary support for their auditory needs.
This initiative reflects the deep concern of King Mohammed VI for the education, health, integration, and overall well-being of deaf and hard-of-hearing children. The day commenced with a visit by Princess Lalla Asmaa to the Rabat Hospital of Specialties, where she was greeted with honors by a contingent of auxiliary forces. She was accompanied by notable figures including the Minister of Health and Social Protection, the Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, and various local dignitaries. The Princess's visit underscored the collaborative efforts being made at multiple levels of government to address the needs of hearing-impaired individuals.
Significant Developments and Future Initiatives
During this impactful event, Princess Lalla Asmaa met with 56 children from Morocco, Palestine, and other African nations who had recently undergone cochlear implant surgeries. This program, "United: We Hear Better," aims to provide essential hearing solutions to children in need. The Princess was briefed on advanced technologies such as the piezoelectric bone-anchored implants, which offer alternatives for children who cannot use conventional cochlear implants.
Furthermore, the Princess visited the Lalla Asmaa Foundation's headquarters, where she explored various recreational activities available for implanted children. She also attended a presentation focusing on the critical role of speech therapy, parental guidance, home follow-ups, and the significance of maintaining the external device of cochlear implants, as daily care is directly related to the child’s auditory quality. The introduction of the "ConnectCare" device, allowing for remote adjustments of cochlear implants for over 100 children, was also a focal point, signifying a leap in healthcare accessibility.
As a highlight of the day, Princess Lalla Asmaa oversaw the signing of five cooperation agreements aimed at improving and broadening access to hearing equipment across the nation. These agreements were established between the Lalla Asmaa Foundation and various ministries, marking a historic commitment to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with hearing impairments. The signing ceremony included partnerships with the Ministry of Solidarity, the Mohammed VI Foundation for the Promotion of Social Works in Education and Training, and regional health groups, setting a robust framework for ongoing support and development.
As reported by lebrief.ma.
