Following a successful inaugural edition held in Tunisia during the 2026 Music Festival, the "Voix urbaines francophones" initiative has continued its journey in Morocco, taking place from October 12 to 16. This artistic residency is dedicated to the vibrant creativity of Francophone youth, showcasing their talents and cultural diversity.
This initiative, supported by the Representation of the OIF for North Africa (REPAN) in partnership with 4S Fest’, along with the Hiba Foundation and the National Higher Institute of Music and Choreographic Arts (INSMAC), aims to place Francophone youth, cultural diversity, and artistic creativity at the forefront of contemporary artistic creation.
Offering a platform for young talents, the residency encourages these artists to express their voices in French, Standard Arabic, and dialectal Arabic (Darija) through rap and slam poetry, while celebrating the richness of urban cultures.
The program brought together 23 young participants from various nationalities, hailing from ten cities across Morocco, including Rabat, Casablanca, Tangier, Témara, Skhirat, Sidi Kacem, Essaouira, Béni Mellal, Oujda, and Fez. This geographical diversity highlights the initiative's commitment to mobilizing youth from different regions, fostering connections among various artistic backgrounds and sensitivities.
Throughout the residency, participants received mentorship from renowned Moroccan artists such as Mobydick, Da Legend, and MHMUM. Through dedicated workshops focused on rap, slam, and the oral tradition of text delivery, these young creators were able to refine their artistic content, assert their identities, and explore innovative forms of expression.
On October 17, the residency culminated in an artistic presentation open to the public at INSMAC, attended by representatives from the OIF and the Group of Francophone Ambassadors and Delegates in Morocco. This significant event showcased the work accomplished by the young artists, while also emphasizing the role of urban cultures as vehicles for expression, intercultural dialogue, and the promotion of Francophonie.
This latest chapter in Morocco underscores the commitment to nurturing emerging talents within an atmosphere of openness and sharing in the Francophone community.
As reported by francophonie.org.