Indeed, the pearl of the southern provinces of the Kingdom has gained notoriety in recent years among the organizers of major sporting events, particularly water sports.
Due to its geographical position, its natural potential, its favorable climatic conditions and the quality of its infrastructure, Dakhla has become an El Dorado for board sports enthusiasts for both Moroccan and foreign kitesurfers.
Thus, Foum Labouir beach in Dakhla hosted the 13th Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Kitesurfing World Cup 2023 Championship, as well as the second edition of the “GWA Wingfoil World Cup”.
Organized under the High Patronage of HM King Mohammed VI, these two sporting events initiated by the Lagon Dakhla Association for the development of sport and culture saw the participation of more than 70 riders from several countries, including five Moroccans having reached the final stage.
Dakhla also hosted the 8th edition of “Dakhla Downwind Challenge”, a unique sporting event and an exceptional kitesurfing adventure, which brought together several amateurs and seasoned fans of this board sport, in a resolutely cosmopolitan atmosphere full of meetings and sharing of experiences. experiences between nationalities from around the world.
Placed under the High Patronage of HM King Mohammed VI, this sporting event initiated by the Moroccan Kitesurfing Association (AMKS), aims to create a new dynamic in the city of Dakhla, known for its tourist assets and potential allowing it to to establish itself as a privileged destination for kitesurfing enthusiasts and professionals.
This event offers kitesurfers the largest downwind kitesurfing descent in Africa, with an average of 100 km per day, sailing along the virgin beaches of the Moroccan coastline.
The pearl of the South also hosted the 9th edition of the Sahraouiya 2023 raid, organized by the Lagon Dakhla association under the patronage of HM King Mohammed VI. Beyond the sporting competition, it is a demonstration of solidarity bringing together numerous women’s teams around the spirit of solidarity which is the very essence of the Sahraouiya.
Furthermore, the “Sport without doping” caravan made a stopover in Dakhla, the second stage of a national tour started last June, at the initiative of the Moroccan Anti-Doping Agency (AMAD).
Organized under the High Patronage of HM King Mohammed VI, this caravan aims to raise awareness of the dangers of doping, as a public health problem which does not only affect athletes, through a discourse accessible to all targeted categories.
On this occasion, a series of themes were debated, focusing in particular on “The reasons for the ban on doping in sports”, “The effects of doping on young people”, “The means to fight against this scourge” and ” The awareness-raising role of AMAD”, in addition to the organization of educational workshops, an awareness-raising platform and educational games.
In addition, Dakhla constituted the final stage of the 15th edition of the Tanja-Lagouira Raid, initiated by the Nord-Sud Action association (Moroccan Association for communication, socio-economic development and investment incentive) . This sporting journey offers Moroccan and foreign participants the opportunity to travel across Morocco, from Tangier to Dakhla, and to discover the socio-economic potential and exceptional tourist attractions of the southern provinces.
Likewise, the pearl of the South hosted the 2nd stage of the “Female Strides of Victory”, which was attended by a significant number of women from various social strata and age groups.
Initiated by the Royal Moroccan Federation of Sport for All (FRMSPT), this sporting event aims to encourage and motivate all social strata, particularly girls and women, to practice sporting activities.
Placed under the sign “I run according to my abilities”, this 2nd stage which was marked by an increased participation of running enthusiasts, allowed the participants to test the race circuit (3 km), something to please yourself by crisscrossing the city’s main arteries.
In the same vein, Dakhla hosted the 1st edition of the Moulay El Hassan rapid game chess tournament, at the initiative of the Oued Eddahab chess association.
Organized in coordination with the Provincial Directorate of National Education of Oued Eddahab, on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of HRH Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan, this competition brought together 20 chess players from the Oued Eddahab horseman association of chess game.
This tournament, which took place in the Swiss system in seven rounds at the Fischer cadence of 20 minutes, aims to encourage young people to practice the game of chess, with the aim of allowing Dakhla to strengthen its position in this discipline. sports on a national scale.
Furthermore, the Regional Academy of Education and Training (AREF) of Dakhla-Oued Eddahab and the Moroccan NGO Tibu Africa signed a framework agreement in Dakhla to promote education through sport. for the benefit of young people in the region.
This convention also aims to promote education, professional integration and entrepreneurship of young people, rising generations and women through sport.
In addition, a training course was organized in Dakhla to obtain the “CAF-Pro” license, the highest qualification in coach training structures.
Initiated by the National Technical Directorate (DTN) under the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), in partnership with the African Football Confederation (CAF), this training session aims to raise the level of African football and promote the African coach who will now be able to meet the high-level requirements and increasingly high expectations of the coaching profession.
This training session, the second of its kind held in Morocco, saw the participation of 25 coaches, including six foreigners from Tunisia, Zambia, Mali, Ethiopia, Egypt and the Ivory Coast, offered by the FRMF partner federations, which meet the conditions required to participate in this training session.
The city of Dakhla seems to be more confirmed than ever in its status as a world-class destination for board sports enthusiasts, especially since it has become a sporting destination of choice for different sporting disciplines.
How does the integration of traditional sports like chess impact the youth in Dakhla?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Dr. Amina Zahra, Sports Development Expert
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, Dr. Zahra! Dakhla seems to be quickly becoming a hotspot for various sports events, especially water sports. What do you think is driving this surge in popularity?
Dr. Amina Zahra (DAZ): Thank you for having me! Dakhla’s unique geographical location and ideal climatic conditions create the perfect environment for water sports enthusiasts. The combination of steady winds, warm temperatures, and stunning landscapes attracts both local and international kitesurfers. Plus, the region’s commitment to developing its infrastructure for sports has played a crucial role in this growing reputation.
TNE: Absolutely! Recent events like the Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan Kitesurfing World Cup and the GWA Wingfoil World Cup have put Dakhla on the global map. How significant do you think these events are for the local community?
DAZ: These events do more than just attract athletes; they create a vibrant atmosphere that promotes cultural exchange and community spirit. For instance, over 70 riders from various countries joined in these competitions, showcasing Dakhla’s hospitality and capability as a host city. Such events generate economic activity, from tourism to local businesses, which is vital for the community’s growth.
TNE: Speaking of community, I noticed that the Sahraouiya 2023 raid emphasized solidarity among women’s teams. How does sports play a role in empowering women in the region?
DAZ: Sports can be a powerful tool for social change. Events like the Sahraouiya not only highlight athleticism but also foster a sense of unity and support among women. By encouraging participation across various age groups and social backgrounds, these initiatives dismantle barriers and promote inclusivity. It’s inspiring to see women take center stage in these events, showcasing their strength and capability.
TNE: Dakhla also hosted discussions around the dangers of doping in sports. Why is this awareness crucial, especially in a developing sports culture?
DAZ: Raising awareness about doping is essential to ensure the integrity of sports, especially in a region striving to establish itself in the global arena. Engaging communities in discussions about the dangers of doping helps foster a culture of fair play and can safeguard the health of young athletes. The “Sport without doping” caravan is a vital step in educating individuals and promoting a healthy approach to competition.
TNE: Another interesting aspect is the blend of traditional and modern sports, like the chess tournament organized in honor of Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan. What implications does this have for the local youth?
DAZ: The chess tournament is a fantastic initiative! It promotes critical thinking and strategic planning, which are important skills not just in chess but in life as well. By engaging youth in various forms of sport, including intellectual ones, Dakhla is nurturing well-rounded individuals. It also underscores the importance of cultural heritage in sports, showing that activities like chess can coexist alongside more physically intensive sports.
TNE: With all these developments, what future do you envision for Dakhla as a sporting destination?
DAZ: I believe Dakhla is poised to become one of Africa’s leading sports hubs. If local authorities continue to invest in infrastructure and host diverse sporting events, they will attract a steady influx of tourists and athletes from around the world. This could lead to sustainable economic growth and establish Dakhla not only as a kitesurfing paradise but also as a vibrant cultural and sports destination.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Zahra, for your insights. It’s fascinating to see how Dakhla is harnessing the power of sports to foster community, drive economic growth, and promote cultural exchange.
DAZ: Thank you for the opportunity! I’m excited to see how Dakhla continues to evolve and inspire through sports.